Summer days are in full swing. Vacation Bible school programs, worship and arts camps, outdoor Christian day camps, and overnight camps are all mainstays of exciting summer church activities, but all of these events are out of the routine and norm of young families. There are many young families who, since the interruption of the pandemic, have never tried a summer church experience and may feel nervous about what it is.

How can you be an advocate for getting outside the regular church routine and trying out a new program? Personal invitations go the furthest. If you have families with older children and teens who remember attending these kinds of activities in the past, invite them to share their experiences. You can host an information session, provide a time for people to ask questions, and give young parents and their children someone to connect with.

Do families have access to summer VBS at your church or a local church? Help find ways to connect a few interested children with each other so that they will know someone at the event. Most children make friends quickly at VBS and camps, but knowing there will be a familiar face often reduces anxiety. If your church does not hold a vacation Bible school or summer program, look for nearby congregations. Provide information, a contact person, and financial support if you are able. Most summer church experiences strive to be affordable for all, but a scholarship can go a long way to making sure the experience is not a hardship.

Many areas of the country have faith-based sleepaway camps nearby. The Lutheran Outdoor Ministries operates remarkable camps and events throughout the United States. Other mainline denominations also have outdoor ministries, including Presbyterian Church USA, which is the denomination I serve. Camps should be accredited by the American Camp Association and provide information about best practices and safety measures for all campers. Do a little bit of research to find a camp that connects with your congregation’s mission and theology. Many synods offer camp information, as well as information about financial aid and support. Children who are nervous about going away to camp will benefit from a first-hand invitation from another camper. Reach out to the camp to see if they can send a representative to make a presentation or refer you to a recent camper.

However kids experience faith formation in the summer, new and exciting adventures are wonderful ways to expand children's love and faith.