Service projects, mission trips, mission trip fundraisers, mission trip classes, outreach projects, worship sessions, appointments... These are just a few ways I've heard about lately from youth pastors and their students backing out. Why is it that students find it acceptable to not show up to these? How do we deal with them? It's tough isn't it. The first thing that comes to mind is that students have to know from the beginning what the expectations are. If they know what the expectations are then they need to be held to what they agree to. As a youth leader, do you find yourself running around filling in for teens that didn't show up or have backed out? Why do you do it? Here are a few ideas to help. By the way, we all struggle with this one if we work with teens!

• Set clear expectations AND consequences
• Allow students to fail - don't always rescue them
• Create an atmosphere where students are held responsible
• Confront students who break commitments
• Clearly communicate with students and parents throughout the commitment
• Be approachable when issues arise
• Follow through with consequences if expectations aren't met
• Be consistent with all students
• Be flexible when uncontrollable situations arise