One of the many lessons we learned from COVID is the importance of schools in identifying severe problems in the home endangering children. One could argue they aren’t doing a perfect job, but historically they are often the number one reporter of neglect and abuse in the home. Summer is a dangerous time for children and teens who live in homes where they are abused or neglected or if they develop mental health issues their families don’t notice, because they aren’t in school.
You may be wondering what this has to do with your ministry. After all, your kids come from good, middle class Christian homes. Believe it or not, your students may also be at risk for the very same issues and may be even less likely to have someone notice and intervene.
Make it a ministry goal this summer that every one of your students is asked weekly how they are doing physically, mentally and spiritually. Pay close attention to unusual behaviors or injuries with explanations that don’t make sense (here’s a great list of some of the signs of abuse https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20370864) or other signs of potential abuse or neglect.
Be aware of your students’ mental health. Watch especially for signs of depression lasting more than a week or two, eating disorders and heightened anxiety. Your camps and mission trips often give you a more in depth view of kids who may be struggling.
If you want to really go the extra mile, visit each student in his or her home. Not only can you see if a family may need extra assistance, it communicates to both the young person and the family that you care enough to take the time to visit.
If you find something of concern and aren’t sure what to do, ask a minister, social worker or other professional trained in healthy, safe ways to minister to people in crisis. Don’t leave your students unsupported this summer. Give each one multiple wellness check-ins over the next few weeks.