Ah. As a former professional youth minister (18 years) who worked for churches that strongly emphasized baptism, I learned early on to avoid this pitfall. Especially at the end of summer camps and intensive retreats.

Any teen seeking baptism had to get permission from mom/dad/guardian. If they were under 16 years old I tried to talk them out of it.

(In retrospect I think I would now meet with parents ahead of time and let them know about the possibility and ask their wishes and guidance. I would also assure them they would be contacted if their student expressed a desire for baptism).

I figured if I could talk a kid out of it or if waiting on mom and dad was enough to “cool the flame”, they weren’t ready anyway. I did not believe (and do not believe) that camps are the place for conversions because the ease in which kids can be manipulated emotionally.

While response to the gospel can be emotional, there must be clear thinking and serious consideration of consequences. (I think some would call that discipleship).

Happy to say we never experienced any blow back or complaints from parents over taking this cautious approach.