Maycember is Coming!

“Maycember” is a term that describes the end-of-school-year chaos in May, which is similar to the busy, stressful, and event-filled nature of December. As a Church Communicator one of the kindest things you can do for the families in your church is to truly streamline all communications during late April and through the month of May. Check out these tips to help you navigate Maycember in a way that honors the rhythm of families!

THINGS TO AVOID

1. Sending multiple emails or texts.

_Families are being bombarded with information from schools about end-of-year EVERYTHING. Don’t add to that barrage. Your communication will likely get lost in the shuffle anyway._

1. **Don’t launch a big initiative during this time.

** _Families don’t have the bandwidth to take in anything else right now._

1. Don’t forecast summer plans too early in May.

_Some summer communication can’t be avoided._ _“Drip” what’s coming but don’t push sign up’s or commitments too hard._ _We must understand that it’s hard for the average family to even think about June until they’ve reached that May finish line._

THINGS TO DO!

1. Use your social media as a way to encourage.

_Positive and even funny posts can come alongside tired parents, teachers and students._

1. **Consolidate!

** _Communicating doesn’t just stop in Maycember, so when you send that email or text, consolidate and be concise and clear as possible._

1. **Pray for your people.

** _Use your voice to intercede for your church family and whatever they are going through, including living through Maycember._

1. **Examine your flow.

** _Maybe the concept of Maycember is new to you and you are realizing your communications flow isn’t mindful of the family rhythm. Consider how you might adjust things going forward. Maybe your church doesn’t have a lot of young families and Maycember isn’t a huge concern? What IS the rhythm of your congregation and how can you honor it?_

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