Last week, we picked up our 9 year old from camp. To be exact, it is Ridgecrest Camp for Boys (http://www.ridgecrestcamps.com/). The closing ceremony is simple, and could be viewed as a bit corny, yet it is so indicative of what boys do at camp. There are some traditional songs, a presentation or two, a brief spiel about the alumni organization (which is amazing) and a video.
The video is where it gets me. Through the video you get to see all that goes on. These campers have no idea how good they have it. I watch the video and I want to go to camp! I wish there was a session for 30 ish campers (OK, more like 40 ish!).
Throughout the 2 week session, we can go on line and see pictures and read blogs and get a sample of what is going on. Of course, you look for your son. We make a folder and save his pictures. That only tells part of the story.
I worked camp-not Camp Ridgecrest-but I worked at a camp for boys. I know that some of the things you do during a session are for the campers, yet some are purely for your sanity. I also know that if you did not love what you were doing, and love the place where you are serving, you simply would not go back. Many of the staffers go back year after year. They serve unselfishly and work hard. The video shows much of what is offered to the boys.
Mountain biking, camp outs, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, zip lines, blobs into the lake, Disc Golf, sports of all kinds, rock climbing, carnivals, water slide, field trips (eating at Fuddrucker's is an amazing camp activity I say), hiking, rocketry, paintball, hang time, bonfires, tribal rings, devotions, amazing camp food, meeting boys from throughout the country (Andrew's best buddy at camp lives in Michigan), is all just a sampling of what they do. Not every boy experiences the same stuff because each can choose some activities and then some things are camp wide or age group specific. Sock war is a camp specialty. Then they do Capture the Flag, Sub Wars, World Cup, Sink the Dock, Messy Games and so much more. All this in an environment where the focus is developing young men as leaders, and teaching them it is OK to have fun and live for God at the same time. Apparently no one ever wears a shirt either!
The camp video, which each family gets to take home, shows snippets of all kinds of activities at camp. As I watched, I literally had tears in my eyes. Watching these videos brings back so many memories and I am so glad I get to send my son. I sat him down and explained how lucky he is to get to go to camp. They do an amazing job!
Next year, our daughter can go to Crestridge Camp for Girls. I know she will have an amazing time as well. They also have a tremendous tradition and do a great job. I cannot wait to see her response to camp, camp activities, camp environment and all that is involved with camp.
In these days, many parents are leery about sending away their kids. Too many parents won't allow their kids our of their sight, thus earning the title Helicopter Parent. Allowing your child to attend camp is great for them, and can be great for you. You know they are in a safe environment, they get to experience life without you, and they get to blossom and develop in a wholesome environment. What could be better? Additionally, you get a small vacation from them, which is healthy for you!
Camp can be pricey. Most things in life that are worthwhile have a cost. In my opinion, there is very little in this world that is more valuable for them than sending them to camp. Sacrificing for their sake is good for them and you.
Send your child to camp, and you cannot believe how they develop and grow. Send your child to camp and they might find out who they really are. Send your child to camp and the benefits far exceed any negatives (like missing them). Basically, send your child to camp.
Camp changes lives.
