Lessons from Kids Camp- Part one

Last week I had an amazing time at kids camp.  I learned quite a bit too!  Even though it was my 7th summer camp at Quest (and 10th camp at Quest if you include spring camps!) I felt like a new-by all over again.  And I had some great mini-conversations with kids/teens throughout the week that inspired and encouraged me.  So I thought I share a bit of what I learned through SonRock kids camp.

Reminder to myself and other camp directors (none of which I’m sure read this little blog!): The week before camp is crazy, chaotic, rushed, hectic, exciting, nerve-wracking, and emotionally, physically, draining.  This year, I thought for sure I would have some sort of crazy break-down during camp week, because I felt so empty and used up even before camp began!  I was weary and exhausted and worried it would be evident at camp.  Never fear- super man, I mean SUPER GOD is here!  Woah, did He bring the rain just when I needed it!

That first day of camp was so much fun- a little crazy yes (particularly registration which is typical I know)- but REALLY fun.  What made it fun was really watching volunteer leaders step up and serve, camp counselors, guides, youth helpers, snack & craft & game people.  People using their gifts and also people willing to learn new things.  And excited kids, a little shy at first, but happy to be at camp.  It was refreshing and energizing right from the beginning.  I realized by day two that while the week before camp is crazy, the week of camp, at least for me as a director, was revitalizing my soul.

lesson one: Kids Camp is worth all the hard work and effort put in before camp, so that the week of camp kids can learn, youth and adults can serve and grow in their faith, and directors can watch with goofy grins and delight in the fruit of their labor!!!!

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