Youth Dictionary

Think of the slang or faddish words your group members use. How many of those words do you know the meaning of? Open the lines of communication by compiling a Youth Dictionary with your group members. Have group members write their slang words. Then form the list to look like a dictionary by putting the words in alphabetical order and showing how to pronounce each one. Tell what part of speech each word is such as a noun, or an adjective, and have young people give their definition. The group will fill several pages in no time. Have volunteers type the Youth Dictionary, photocopy it and arrange it in booklet form. Distribute copies to parents and other church members. Adults may not change their vocabulary, but they’ll understand kids’ language better. Update the dictionary as needed. Use it as a discussion starter on understanding others.