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Group Dates

Group Dates

youth talking

Purpose

Plan and go on fun group dates to build friendships and social skills.

Description

Think of fun and creative group date ideas. You might consider an indoor beach party during cold weather, a Christmas party in July, a game night, a luau, or a fiesta. Plan and carry out the group date. (See “Fun Dates That Don’t Break the Bank” in the Youth section of LDS.org for more ideas.)

At the beginning of the activity, review the definition of “date” found in the “Dating” section of For the Strength of Youth (booklet, 2011):

“A date is a planned activity that allows a young man and a young woman to get to know each other better. In cultures where dating is acceptable, it can help you learn and practice social skills, develop friendships, have wholesome fun, and eventually find an eternal companion” (page 4).

It may be helpful to review the entire “Dating” section (pages 4–5) before or during the activity.

More Ideas

  • Set the record straight—Ever wonder what the opposite sex thinks about certain dating topics? Why not ask? Invite participants to write down questions on topics such as date expectations, manners, pet peeves, preferences, confusions, and so forth. Have the boys ask the girls one of their questions. After the girls have answered, have them ask the boys one of their questions. Continue taking turns until all questions have been answered or time is up. Remind everyone to be respectful during the discussion.

  • Dating idea book—Ask everybody to come prepared with several favorite dating ideas. Encourage participants to consider a variety of situations (outdoor dates, thrifty dates, formal dances, making a meal together, and so on). Compile the ideas into a book and give a copy to each participant.

  • Speed dating—Consider coordinating this activity with at least one other ward or branch, if possible. Invite participants to come to the activity ready to ask good get-to-know-you questions, or provide a list of examples to help them get started (for instance, “What does a perfect Saturday look like for you?” is a lot more interesting than “What is your favorite color?”). Set up two rows of chairs opposite each other. Boys sit on one side and girls on the other. For two or three minutes, the individuals opposite each other take turns asking questions. Then the participants shift to a new partner and repeat the process.

  • Dance class—Invite an experienced dance teacher to demonstrate a few basic dance steps. Learning basic dances (such as the waltz, fox-trot, cha-cha, or other dances common in your area) can help make social dancing more enjoyable.

Discussion

Encourage participants to talk about what they are learning. Discussions can take place before, during, or after the activity. You could ask questions like the following:

  • Why do you think it is important to learn about relationships and group dating?

  • When has group dating helped you develop good relationships?

  • What feelings or impressions do you have about group dating?

  • How can you apply what you are learning in your life?

Related Resources

Sabbath Day Lesson

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