A Guide for Parents for Great Summer Camp Experiences
As winter slowly gives way to the promise of spring, many of us find ourselves thinking ahead to summer. And what better way to kick off the season than by thinking about summer camp? Camps allow kids to break free from the usual routine, dive into new experiences, and learn things they never expected. But let's face it, choosing the right camp isn’t always a no-brainer. With so many options, how can you ensure your child’s summer camp experience is the best fit?
Summer camps aren’t just a fun way for kids to get outdoors; they play a crucial role in helping kids grow emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Whether it’s a faith-based camp that strengthens their walk with God, an adventure camp that builds teamwork, or a sports camp that hones a particular skill, the right camp can spark lasting growth. But how do you find the one that’s right for your family’s values and your child’s needs? Let’s dig in!
Pick A Camp That Aligns With Your Values
When you start researching camps, think about what matters most to you. Look for camps that weave spiritual growth into their programs. Just like the way we all have different personalities and ways we process the world, each camp will speak to unique aspects of your child’s foundational faith journey.
It’s like tuning into a new song: you want the beat to match the rhythm of your family. For some kids, a camp that integrates a love of nature with Bible study might be the perfect place to grow in both faith and confidence. For others, a camp focusing on building self-reliance and resilience might be more their style. Don’t forget to check out reviews and testimonials, and talk to trusted friends or family members who’ve been to these camps before. It’s a great way to see what resonates with other families with similar values.
Choose Camps Where Kids Grow Through Engagement
When choosing a camp, keep an eye on how well it encourages personal growth and active participation. Summer camp isn’t just about fun activities (though, honestly, those are a big part of the excitement). It’s also about pushing kids out of their comfort zones and helping them grow.
Think of it like preparing for a road trip. You wouldn’t just pack the car and hope for the best; you’d ensure you have everything you need for the journey. Camps focusing on independence and self-discovery can guide your child on their spiritual adventure with Jesus. Encourage your kids to step into that space! Emphasize the importance of embracing new activities, whether learning a new sport, connecting with a new group of people, or growing deeper in their relationship with God.
Consider Safety and Well-being
Safety is often at the top of our minds. We can’t emphasize this enough: a great camp will prioritize your child’s safety, and that includes clear communication about their protocols. Ask about staff vetting and background checks, training, counselor-to-camper ratios, and the camp’s emergency procedures. The last thing you want is to send your child somewhere that doesn’t have the resources to handle a crisis.
And remember: when kids feel safe, they’re free to grow. They’re more likely to embrace new experiences, make new friends, and open up about their spiritual journey. This safe space is key to their overall well-being.
Three Simple Steps for Parents
Research camps that align with your values. Look for camps that reflect your faith and family principles. Talk to other parents, check reviews, and connect with camp directors to ensure the environment matches your child well.
Encourage growth through participation. Help your kids see the importance of engaging fully in camp activities, whether they’re new challenges or familiar favorites. This is where they’ll learn new things and grow spiritually!
Prioritize safety. Ensure the camp is focused on the well-being of its campers by asking about safety protocols and staff experience. Your peace of mind is key to your child’s success.
Connect With Your Kids Using Dr. Kathy Koch’s "8 Great Smarts"
Now that you’ve got the research part under control, how can you make the most of this experience as a family? Dr. Kathy Koch’s "8 Great Smarts" can help guide your approach to supporting your child through camp:
Word Smart: Ask them to share what they’ve learned during their camp adventures. Practice using the phrase “tell me more” and encourage them to use colorful and expressive words.
Logic Smart: Dive into the logistics of the camp’s activities. Discuss strategies and outcomes from team-building games, sports challenges, or problem-solving activities.
Picture Smart: Take time to talk about the camp environment itself. Encourage your child to explore and notice the beautiful surroundings. Maybe they’ll draw or create a mental map of the camp!
Body Smart: After camp, engage in fun physical activities like hiking or a nature walk to keep the spirit of the camp alive. Let your child show you their favorite activities through movement.
Music Smart: If music was part of their camp experience, sit down together and listen to any songs or performances they enjoyed. Maybe even sing along.
People Smart: Discuss the relationships your child built with peers and camp counselors. How did they navigate group activities? What social challenges did they face and overcome?
Self-Smart: Reflect on how your child grew individually during camp. What did they learn about themselves? What goals do they want to set for the future?
Nature Smart: If the camp was outdoors, connect with nature when they get home. Take time to appreciate the environment, whether it’s a garden, the park, or a family camping trip.
Remember, by connecting these different ways of thinking and learning with your child’s camp experience, you’ll deepen their growth and help them carry the lessons into their everyday lives. So, here’s to an exciting, enriching summer beyond just camp that allows your child to grow in faith, independence, and confidence.
We recommend you consider Summit Ministries for your family. Find out more at summit.org