Camp is not for everyone. Camps vary widely in their structure, programming and appeal. So, while Camp Pecometh is an ACA Accredited camp, meaning it meets the highest standards for safety and programming, we know it’s not for everyone. Here’s why.
#1 We are a Christian Camp
Since its inception in 1946, Pecometh has been a Christian camp. Our focus is on spiritual growth and faith development. We see ourselves as helping young people to experience Jesus in ways that they might not anywhere else.
I’m always amazed by the number of campers that say on their evaluations that Bible Study is their favorite activity. Music time is worship, but in a wild and crazy way. Vespers and cabin time help campers reflect on how God is working in their lives. Our Galilean service is a milestone moment that many, if not most, campers remember as part of their spiritual journey for the rest of their lives.
We hear regularly from camper parents comments such as, “He’s decided to read his bible every day.” Or, “She decided to go deeper in her faith and get really involved in church.” We don’t try to manufacture these responses. But, we do try to help each camper to be intentional about their own relationship with God.
#2 Campers don't have cell phones (or other electronics)
Some young people just refuse to be without their cell phone for six days. Amazingly, those that are willing to give it a try find that they hardly miss it. Camp life is filled with fun and friendship. Unlike a text message, their interactions are memorable and meaningful. I like to call it “actual reality.”
On the other hand, some parents can’t fathom the idea of not checking in on their child for six days. Even non “Thoth-Amon” are used to the “always on” communications that daily life allows. Parents CAN email their camper. However, the structure and pace of camp life don’t allow for campers to email back.
Parents who are able to go a week without speaking with their camper often find that they notice a difference when their camper returns. Comments like, “She has grown in confidence” or “He seems more independent” are common.
I often hear campers say, “This is the only place I feel like I can be myself.”
I thought for a long time that this was a response to the peer pressure they feel at school and I think that’s true, in part. However, I’ve come to understand that this is a natural part of the growth process. Children need to have space from their parents to develop. Camp is a physically and emotionally safe place to do it.
#3 Group living is not for everyone
Camp life means learning to get along with others. Everything is done as a group. This is part of the fun. But, it also means that things don’t always go one’s way. If the cabin group has a free moment and they decide to play a game, it might not be everybody’s first choice. When it’s time to clean up the cabin, some may work harder than others.
The upside is that a sense of community forms very rapidly at camp. The downside is that community is comprised of people and people aren’t perfect. If a child is used to always getting his or her own way, then camp might not be the best choice.
#4 The day is highly structured (and there is a lot of walking)
Camp Pecometh runs on an activity matrix, so that every program is scheduled for a particular activity throughout the day. Typical activities are swimming, canoeing/waterfront, arts & crafts, Bible Study, canteen, nature discovery, archery and splashdown. Some activities vary by program, but you get the idea. In addition, specialty programs such as Top Chef Pecometh, Horseback, Chester River Trek, etc., will have activities specific to their programs.
Activities are scheduled in half hour, one hour and two hour blocks and the campers move together as a family group (usually one boys cabin and one girls cabin) through the days’ activities. That means a lot of walking.
Evenings are also scheduled with all-camp activities such campfire, counselor hunt, international spotlight and our Galilean service.
We have found that a structured day works well for our camp program and for our campers, but we know it’s not for everybody.
#5 We won’t help your child get into college (but we can help prepare her for it)
Camp Pecometh doesn’t have programs to help prepare star athletes or budding scientists, at least not to get into that top school or to get the coveted scholarship. There are plenty of outstanding camps that help with that.
Camp Pecometh WILL help prepare a young person to succeed in life. We believe that starts with a strong spiritual foundation. It also extends to developing social skills, a lifelong love of learning and the ability to collaborate. You can read my blog post on the value of summer camp to learn more about this.
Bottom line: Camp Pecometh helps prepare kids for life.
#6 Your child has never spent the night away from home
It may be possible that overnight camp is your child’s first experience away from home, but it’s probably not the best idea. Kids usually start by spending the night at a relative’s house. Then they move to a sleepover at a friend’s. Camp can be the next logical step. Read this blog post to help you decide if your child is ready for overnight camp.
Every child is different, even among siblings, so it’s important to assess when the right time is for your child.
That’s not to say that your child won’t get a little homesick. That’s a natural part of the first time camp experience. Our staff is trained to help campers cope with homesickness. For the vast majority of campers, sticking it out through that initial period will result in a fantastic week to go along with some added maturity.
In summary, we know that Camp Pecometh is not for everyone. We also know that those who value the experience do so because it becomes a unique part of their growing up. Over seventy years' worth of campers have shown us that.
Ready to learn more about Camp Pecometh? Click the image to download our 2020 Summer Camp brochure!
Topics: Camp