It’s the October half term. Lendrick Muir is buzzing with 72 kids from across Scotland on a camp. There is the sound of many excited children getting ready to go out on activities. Does the thought of running your own children’s activity camp fill you with excitement or send chills down your spine?

Speaking to the leader of the camp, who has run over twenty of them, I have gleamed some nuggets of wisdom and reasons why she chooses to run camps.

Tops five reasons to take kids on a camp

1. Build relationships with other kids – It is a great opportunity for friendships to grow in a safe environment.
2. Let kids be kids – For a week there is no technology and they get to play as kids. Yesterday their favourite activities were simply the adventure playground and disc golf .
3. Grow closer to God – A good ministry team will enable the kids the opportunity to connect with God on their level and build on their relationship with Him.
4. Leaders connect with kids – It provides the opportunity for leaders to get to know the kids outside the church environment.
5. Great experience – The kids get to have a fantastic week.

Top tips for organising a kids’ camp

1. Have a good core team of leaders – There are volunteers you can trust, delegate to and who will take responsibility for various elements of the camp.
2. Don’t stress – Take everything in your stride and be willing to problem solve. If you stress, your team will stress too.
3. Speak out issues that arise with your core team – Be accountable to them and do not bottle up any issues you are facing.

Biggest challenge with organising a camp?

Accommodating kids who booked in last minute – 15 children signed up in the last week, 50% in the six weeks before camp.  It takes time for parents to trust you to look after their children. In kids’ ministry, unlike adult ministry your kids’ group changes every four years as they grow up.

Final piece of advice

When starting a kids’ camp, start small (for example a weekend) and then grow it.

So what do you think? You up for it?

For more information about how Lendrick Muir could support you in running a camp for your youth or children, check out the ACCOMMODATION, ACTIVITIES or get in CONTACT.