Undated resources are designed to be studied on a more flexible schedule without regard to the calendar. Typically, each study is self-contained and doesn't presume any lesson context before or after the study. Undated studies provide a greater ability to customize a plan that works in a particular situation. This can be a plus or a negative depending on your ability to develop a well balanced and sequenced plan on your own. Undated studies often provide reproducible handouts or other inexpensive options for students.

Beyond the option of dated or undated, you will want to think about the length of the study plan. Dated plans can span years while undated studies are usually four to 12 sessions. Do you need a resource that takes age differences into account? How important is the base Bible translation to you? How are the resources priced? Is denominational affiliation important? Do you want daily devotional resources supporting the study? Do you want the resources delivered via print or the Web? With the number of publishers growing and the availability of digital delivery, your options are almost endless. This can be a good thing, but it also can be confusing and time-consuming to plow through the options.

Keep the right perspective.

As you explore your curricula options, remember that it's not about YOU. Be careful to avoid making selections based on your own preferences or what makes you look good. Feeding youth "candy" for every meal may make you popular, but it also will produce malnourished kids with rotting teeth. Remember, too, that no curriculum resource can do it all. A video can't take the place of a caring adult who knows the unique needs of the youth attending the study. Give attention to developing strong teachers, as well as strong relationships with your youth.

Curriculum Comparison Chart:

You can download a copy of the Youth Ministry Curriculum Publisher Comparison Chart by using the link posted below. The chart compares selected key features of curriculum resources offered by some of the major publishers. You'll see that it's not always easy to do an "apples to apples" comparison. Still, this can give you a starting point for evaluating your options.

The curricula you choose is an extension of your daily ministry with youth and their families. It can enhance your discipleship ministry or become a source of frustration (and failure) if you choose poorly.