There’s a quiet myth that’s crept into many youth programs: that activities need to be fun, light, and entertaining—or teens won’t come.

It’s false. And worse, it’s short-changing our youth.

Because here’s the truth: youth aren’t showing up for a party. Deep down, they’re looking for identity, connection, and purpose. They’re hungry for truth, challenge, belonging, and growth.

And when we reduce youth night to fun and games, we’re offering candy when they need real food.

So what are youth activities really for?

According to the Church’s youth program, they’re built around four key purposes:

• Spiritual growth
  
• Physical development
  
• Social intelligence
  
• Gaining knowledge & skills
  

That’s not a checklist. It’s a framework for becoming.

Great activities build testimonies, develop leadership, teach self-reliance, and forge character. They prepare teens for real life and eternal life.

“But what if they get bored?”

The answer isn’t more gimmicks. It’s more meaning.

When youth understand why an activity matters—and when they feel seen, needed, and stretched—they don’t get bored. They rise. You’ll be surprised what they’re capable of when we stop trying to entertain them… and start inviting them to grow.