In these difficult times of quarantine, social distancing and self-isolation, it is even more important that we do what we can to maintain the relationships with the young people in our groups.
Everyone is worried right now, and young people need that voice of reassurance and knowledge that, come what may, you are still going to be there for them.
Usage of social media platforms offer a convenient way for us to check in with our groups and allow us to easily communicate with them in large numbers.
Stalwart services like Instagram and YouTube offer excellent ways to be creative in keeping in touch with our young people, and newer platforms such as video conferencing service Zoom have gained immense popularity over the last 10 days or so.
But when it comes to keeping in touch, don’t be too fixed on your approach. You may have great plans for how you can engage via YouTube, but don’t be surprised if your youth have other ideas. In the ever-developing world of social media, the young people form their own preferences very quickly, and then change them just as soon as you’re caught up with them. Be prepared to be flexible, and go where your young people want to be.
More important than the platform, or the service, or what content you create for them, is for them to see you taking an interest, and being willing to go to them, rather than expecting them to come to you.