Why Send Your Child to Camp?

If you've never sent your child to camp before, and are wondering what the benefits can be, then check out the great article below from CCI/Canada, the national membership organization for Christian camps across the country:

Why Summer Camp?

Independence and Self-Esteem

At summer camp, the children are lifted from their usual routine. In most cases, their parents and usual friends aren't there. Summer camp gives kids the unique opportunity to branch out and make new friends while learning new things in a positive environment. Camp provides a wonderful environment for your child to grow. They will learn new skills and try lots of activities, but they'll also learn more about themselves and how to interact with others. All of this is done under the guidance and support of positive role models. Camp leaders are seen less by kids as "teachers" or "bosses" and more as cool, older friends. And these camp leaders want to help your child grow, learn, and generally have the best time ever!

New Interests

Because summer camp is packed with fun activities like horseback riding, archery, canoeing, rock climbing, arts and crafts, drama and music, kids get the chance to explore interests they never knew they had. Your child might come home with a new passion! And even if they don't fall completely in love with one activity, the chance to try so many different things will definitely enrich their development. There are also many camps which specialize in a certain activity that your child might already have an interest in.

Active Lifestyles

Many kids today prefer watching television or playing videos games to physical activity. Camp is an environment where kids can learn to have fun being active. It'll get them out of the house and onto the sports field, or rock wall, or beachfront!

Appreciation for Nature

Most camps are situated in a natural setting. Kids who spend most of their lives in the city will get the chance to explore nature—a chance they might not get the rest of the year going to school. Many camps offer specific orienteering or outdoor adventure programs, which can be a unique and invaluable experience for your child.

Building Memories

Kids come away from camp having just had the best week of their lives! They've made new pals (who often become lifelong friends), they've experienced all sorts of fun activities, and most importantly, they feel good about themselves! The good memories your child will make at camp will last a lifetime.

Camp Changes Lives!

We have seen countless examples of how summer camp has changed kids' lives. It's what makes us camp leaders want to keep working in this awesome ministry. The growth children experience as they learn to be more patient, respectful, confident and skilled is evident, as many parents can testify.

Why Choose a Christian Camp like Birch Bay Ranch?

We believe that the values our camp staff can instill in the campers can only serve to positively influence their young lives. While at a Christian camp, kids can learn that they have a purpose in life and that they were created for a reason. This sense of purpose will help them grow towards a bright and positive future. While your child is exploring new activities at camp, he or she will also have the opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. A Christian camp can teach your children that they are truly valuable—a precious creation by a loving God. They will learn the importance of loving their neighbours and treating others the way they want to be treated. They will not only engage in nature, but also with He who created it!

Christian camp staff view their jobs as an important ministry. They are called by God to show love and kindness to their campers, to provide a good example and be a positive role model. Their sole purpose at camp is to make sure your child has fun, stays safe, and experiences the love of God. Every child is welcome and equally valued, just as God equally values all of His children. This nurturing, inclusive environment is unparalleled, and it's why Christian camps exist!

For more information, or to view further information on the benefits of sending your child to summer camp, please visit CCI/Canada's website.