SUMMER GAMES | 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS Staff Letter 3 Camp Introduction 4 Camp Policies 5 Staff Guide 6 - 13 Staff Relationships 14 How to Help a Child Receive Salvation
15
How to Pray with a Child for the Holy Spirit
16
Morning Recreation 17 Devotions 18 - 21 Camp Schedule 26 Map Back Cover
2 | K I D S C A M P 20 2 1
Dear Staff Member, Thanks you so much for coming to serve at camp this year. We are very confident in knowing that you have come here to be a blessing, but we also know that at the end of the week, you will leave being blessed. We would like to tell you that your camp experience will be 100% problem free and the greatest experience you have ever had just this side of Disneyland, but we know that will not be the case. You will not always be comfortable, you will not always be well rested, and your campers will not always do everything that you ask them to do. What we can do is make sure we’re doing all we can to help you have a great week at camp. We want you to become familiar with this manual. This manual contains schedules and activities for the day to day operation of camp. Even if you are a camp veteran, please do not assume that because you have been to camp in the past that you are aware of all the procedures. We make changes each year to help improve the camp. If this is your first time at camp, please don’t hesitate to talk to or ask questions of any of the general or executive staff. We are here for you. Thank you, in advance, for all your hard work and dedication. Praying for a great camp, Dean & Joy Guthrie
SUMMER GAMES | 3
CAMP INTRODUCTION Camp should provide a week-long environment that will involve the camper in fun, making new friends, learning to live together in harmony, and an atmosphere of continual spiritual growth. What’s in it for the campers? • Spiritual Teaching • Bible Teaching • Christian Fellowship • Wholesome recreation Campers should be encouraged in the following: • Personal acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord • Understanding and experiencing the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and its related ministries • A daily study of the Scriptures • A daily prayer time • Seeking and responding to the will of God • Living a consistent Christian life • Being active and faithful in their local church
B E P R E PA R E D! Be Prepared Spiritually! We hope you have come to camp prayed up, ready to add your influences spiritually in every situation, and praying for a genuine burden for kids and their problems. Pray that the Lord will give you the needed wisdom and understanding to help campers in their needs. Be Prepared Mentally! Prepare yourself as much as possible to deal specifically with the age group you will be working with. Knowing the characteristics of varying age groups is necessary to keep in mind when counseling. Be Prepared Physically! Camping is vigorous and tiring physically. By being more thoroughly acquainted with your specific job, you will find more time to relax at camp. Coming to camp physically fit is a necessity! The highest Christian conduct is expected at ALL TIMES. The campers will look to you for an example to follow. Campers do not want someone to be like them; they want someone to be like. Getting acquainted with the daily camp schedule will help you when you are asked by campers time and time again, “What time do we…?” Helping in camp is a ministry—and ministry means sacrifice in order to carry it out.
4 | K I D S C A M P 20 2 1
KIDS CAMP POLICIES & PROCEDURES The following are guidelines for the entire camp for the protective benefits of each person: Dorm Rooms/Facilities • • • • • • •
No swapping or changing of rooms. Pranks, pillow fights, or wrestling in dorms is prohibited. Girls and boys are NOT allowed in the dorm area of the opposite sex. All rooms are to be left clean before activities each day and when leaving on your final day of camp. Inspection of rooms will be daily. Food or drinks will not be allowed in the Worship Center or in the cabins. (Water is allowed.) No outside food, drinks, or ice chests are to be brought to camp. (This does not apply to special dietary needs.)
Behavior • • • • • •
You are expected to observe habits of personal courtesy and Christian conduct in order to protect and insure a wholesome atmosphere of an Assemblies of God Camp. Campers are to stay with coaches at all times. Alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. The daily schedule must be followed and attendance at all activities is required for both campers and staff. Stay in lighted areas of the camp at ALL TIMES. Fire Arms, knives, or any other weapons, are not allowed in the camp.
Dress Code • • • • • •
Fingertip-length shorts may be worn during camp. ALL clothing must cover chest, shoulders, backs, sides, and midriff at ALL times. No tight clothing will be allowed (such as spandex, bike shorts, any type of shirt or dress). Apparel may NOT display or promote tobacco, alcohol, controlled substances, or inappropriate language. Bring shoes/clothes that may be worn in the water or mud. Everyone is to wear shoes at ALL TIMES.
Off Limits! • • • • • •
The recreation property to the south is OFF LIMITS, except for announced activities. NO camper is allowed on staff vehicles, except in the case of an emergency. Please observe the OFF LIMITS signs. Cabins are off limits without an adult present. No one is to leave the camp without permission from the Camp Director or Assistant Director. No guests are allowed at camp, except credentialed ministers with the Assemblies of God.
Personal Belongings • • • • • •
Respect the property rights of others. Do not borrow anything without permission. The camp is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items. Shaving cream is for shaving only. Water balloons and water guns are NOT allowed in the cabins or worship center. Campers are not allowed to bring electronic devices of any kind to camp. This includes cell phones, computers, tablets, CD players, iPods, etc. Staff who bring electronic devices to camp, do so at their own risk. If warranted, the camp leadership reserves the right to search for and hold or dispose of personal belongings.
Administration of Medication & Lice Check • • • •
All Staff Members and Campers must provide a completed Medical Form on the first day of camp. If a Medical Information Form is not provided, the Staff Member/Camper will be sent home; transportation is the responsibility of the church. All medications must be administered by the First Aid Staff. No exceptions. Medication that is not listed on the Medical Form, expired, or sent in baggies or weekly dose containers will not be given. All Staff Members and Campers are required to undergo a lice check two weeks prior to camp and, again, on the morning of camp. The check will be administered by your church’s Camp Coordinator or their representative. All persons must be nit-free in order to attend camp. Any person found to have lice at camp will be sent home; transportation is the responsibility of the church.
Lost and Found •
Please label all items with first and last name. We will do our best to return items to their owner. We will hold all luggage and lost & found items for one week. All items not claimed within one week will be donated to charity.
Media Disclosure •
All campers agree that any media captured (photos, video, audio) is the property of the Oklahoma District Council of the Assemblies of God and can be used for future promotion.
Rules of acceptance and participation in the program are the same for everyone with regard to race, gender, or national origin.
SUMMER GAMES | 5
CAMP STAFF GUIDE • Many of the following guidelines may or may not apply to your position that you are serving. It is still a good idea to be familiar with all guidelines and duties of the camp positions. • Always meet your campers with a smile. Let your first impression be a pleasant one. Campers have come for a good time, and we want them to have exactly that. • Names are like doorknobs—they open the door to let you in. Learn the campers’ names and call them by their names. Avoid “Hey you, Slim, Red, etc.” Start off the first day by calling them by their proper names. • Go over the Camp Policies (p. 5) and Camp Schedule (inside back cover) with your campers. As soon as a room has been filled and campers are moved in, go to the room with the campers and explain to them that they are responsible for their room, and property damage will be paid by those who have done the damage. • Don’t pry! Win the right to be heard. Be a good listener. Be available at all times. Be careful not to try and solve the campers’ problems. Instead, guide them to the Word of God where the Holy Spirit can speak to them and they can find the principles for making right choices. Your campers cannot take you home to help solve their problems, but they CAN take Christ. • Not all problems have a spiritual origin, but the camper will not find a permanent solution to his or her problem until they are in the proper relation with Jesus Christ. Lead them to the point where the Holy Spirit can effect an inner change in their life. A wise coach will try to find out why a camper acts the way he or she does (particularly a “problem camper”). Rather than automatically disciplining or treating a manifested behavior, seek its cause. • Be shockproof! Campers may try to shock you with real or fanciful stories to see if you condemn them as people. Disagree with what they have done, but don’t reject them. Accept them as individual people; reject their sin. Be honest! (Kids spot a phony quicker than anyone else.) Be available and approachable at all times. • By faith, commit your campers to the Lord. Trust Him to work in their hearts, to give insight, motivation, and change. You might make the camper conform, but only the Holy Spirit brings the needed inner change. So, trust Him to work through you.
about
• Always be ready to assist campers to a greater spiritual experience. Remember, you set an example in all that you do and say at camp this week. Ask yourself, “Will kids want to commit their lives to the Christ they see in me?” The coach should carry a burden for each camper in his or her group and should sincerely pray that each will be saved, filled with the Spirit, and wholly committed to Christ before leaving camp. For some campers, YOU may be the greatest spiritual influence in their lives. • Above all, LOVE. There is no greater human force to break down resistance, bridge all gaps, and effect an eternal change in young lives. Of all the qualities needed to be a good coach, we can sum it up by saying, “BUT THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE!”
6 | K I D S C A M P 20 2 1
CAMP STAFF GUIDE • Coaches must obey the rules which apply to the campers. From now on, constant vigilance will be necessary. Not just to watch for campers who will break camp rules; but more important to watch for opportunities to help meet a need in their lives. Observation and discussion will be necessary for you to be able to fill out the Results Form correctly at the end of the week, so we can celebrate the campers that made life changing decisions.
S TAY W I T H YO U R CA M P E R S! Kids Camp is different from Youth Camp. At Kids Camp, the campers require constant supervision. Coaches must stay with their campers during recreation activities, meals, services, concessions time, and in the cabins. Campers are not allowed in the cabins without their coach present. CO AC H’S RO O M S - Coach’s sleeping quarters and restrooms are off limits to campers. Even if your own child is in your room, they must stay in the area designated for campers. Campers are not allowed to use the coach’s restroom or sleep in the coach’s room. CO AC H TO G E T H E R - There will be two coaches in each room. The coaches may come from different churches – or the same church. Regardless of which church the coaches come from, both coaches are expected to work together and coach together. This means that all tasks should be shared between the two coaches. Please do your best to include ALL campers in your conversation and activities, and not just campers from your own church. All campers in your room have been entrusted to your care – not just for safety supervision, but for spiritual supervision. Please look after the physical and spiritual welfare of each camper in your care. F R E E AG E N T S - Sometimes at camp, there are campers who have no adult representative staying with them for the week of camp. We call these campers Free Agents. This situation can prove to be a little scary for some campers. The Deans will let you know if a Free Agent is staying in your room. Please take extra care during and at the end of camp to see that their needs are met. WAT E R! WAT E R! WAT E R! At camp, we have a saying: “Jesus is your best friend – but WATER is your second best friend!” Please ensure that you and your campers are drinking water. Watch for signs of dehydration. Even if you and your campers are wet, you still need to drink water – lots and lots of water! D R E S S CO D E - The dress code for Kids Camp is “Clean & Covered”. Please see that your campers shower daily. Fingertip-length shorts may be worn during camp. All clothing must cover chest, shoulders, backs, sides, and midriff at ALL times. Tight clothing or apparel promoting tobacco, alcohol, controlled substances, or inappropriate language will not be allowed. Shoes must be worn at all times. Contact the office if you discover that the clothing supply & demand for a camper is in need of assistance. We do have a limited supply of clothing in the First Aid Station. Coaches are responsible for checking campers each time they leave the room to see that they are appropriately dressed. Continued on next page. SUMMER GAMES | 7
CAMP STAFF GUIDE If you see a camper from another room in violation of the Dress Code, please do not approach them. Simply bring it to the attention of one of the Deans, Assistant Director, or Director, and they will handle the problem. Please encourage and display modesty with your campers. Do not allow anyone to walk around the cabin without clothes on. Medication - All medication must be checked in at registration upon arrival at camp. This rule is for campers and coaches. Staff members who are not staying in a room with campers may keep their medication in their room. Coaches will be notified if one of their campers is scheduled to take medication. It is the coach’s responsibility to take the camper by the First Aid Station to receive their medication. DO NOT administer MEDICATION or FIRST-AID to CAMPERS. All medication or first-aid given to a camper must be administered and documented in the First Aid Station. This includes all over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and oils. Staff members who are staying in a room with campers must check-in their medications, but they do NOT have to wait in the medication line to get their medication. Simply ask the First Aid Receptionist for your bag of medication, and they will give it to you. Your medication administration will not be documented. You will serve yourself. If privacy is needed to administer your medication, the office restroom is available to you. When you are finished with your medication, please return the bag to the First Aid Receptionist for safe keeping. E M E RG E N C I E S - Emergencies come in all shapes and sizes during camp. We don’t expect you to handle them on your own. Let us help you! Emergency Walkie Talkies - Emergency Walkie Talkies are located in each cabin above the sink in the commons area. Please use these for EMERGENCIES ONLY. Be sure to turn them on before attempting to use them. Also, please turn them off after using. Directions are included on the side of the box that holds the walkie talkie. Be sure to identify your cabin and room when calling for assistance. If an emergency happens outside of the cabins, any Kids Camp Intern (orange lanyard) or Executive Staff Member will have a walkie talkie to assist you. Just make your situation know to them. Bunk Bed Emergency - If someone falls from a bunk bed, please do not move them. Have someone stay with the injured person to keep them calm and still, while another person goes to get the Emergency Walkie Talkie. When notified, our First Aid Staff will come to you. First Aid Needs - If someone is injured or is in need of First Aid, find someone with a walkie-talkie to call for assistance. We will send someone to transport the person to the First Aid Station or have the First Aid Staff come to you. “Night Time” Emergencies - Sometimes campers don’t make it to the toilet when nauseated or in deep, deep sleep. If you discover that someone has thrown up or wet the bed, please call on the Emergency Walkie Talkie. We will bring replacement bedding and assist with clean-up.
8 | K I D S C A M P 20 2 1
CAMP STAFF GUIDE Emergencies Back Home - If you are notified of an emergency happening back home, please let us pray with you. We have Camp Pastors at camp whose main job is to minister to the adults serving at Kids Camp and campers with special circumstances. Be sure to alert someone in the office, and we will connect you with someone to talk with and to pray with you. C E L L P H O N E S - We realize that you have given your time to come and minister to the campers at Kids Camp and that life is moving forward back at home with your family, job, business, etc. We want you to be able to stay connected to things back home. However, we respectfully ask that you do not use your cell phones in front of campers. Campers are not allowed to have cell phones at camp. We want them to unplug and get away from it all so they can focus on getting closer to the Lord. If cell phones are brought by a camper, they may be checked in to the office for safe keeping. DO NOT ALLOW CAMPERS TO USE THEIR CELL PHONE – OR YOUR CELL PHONE - TO CALL OR TEXT. If a camper needs to make a call home, please make arrangements through the Camp Director or Assistant Director. H O M E S I C K N E S S/CA L L I N G H O M E - In many cases, calling home only increases homesickness. But in other cases, just hearing an assuring voice from home is just enough to help a camper make it through the week. Use caution in determining which track to follow. If you as a coach feel that a phone call home would help, please bring the camper to the Camp Office. We have a protocol that we would like you to follow, so we can avoid unnecessary problems. Camp leadership needs to be made aware of extreme homesick cases. If you are dealing with a case of homesickness that is too much for you to handle, please notify the office. We have learned some key points over the years in dealing with homesickness. The bottom line: We want to do everything possible to help a camper stay at camp. Let’s work together to make the best experience for the campers. N O F O O D O R D R I N K S A L LO W E D I N T H E CA B I N S - Water is allowed, but please do not bring food or drinks into the cabins. Let’s work together to keep our camp facility clean! Next week’s campers don’t want to sleep on a bed stained with chili cheese nachos from the concession stand! Also, by keeping food and drinks out of the cabins, bugs and critters won’t be tempted to come in for a visit! CA R E F U L CO N V E R S AT I O N - Do your best to guide conversation within your group. Be careful not to negatively discuss pastors, churches, church members, camp staff, camp food, camp activities, etc. Also, be aware that your attitude can set the tone for the entire room of campers. If you are in a negative mood, that mood will transfer to your campers, and that may result in added problems. But – if you are in a positive mood, that mood will transfer to your campers, and that will result in a positive atmosphere. Remember - the campers will look to you for an example to follow. P RA N K S, P I L LO W F I G H T S, & W R E S T L I N G - Pranks, pillow fights, and wrestling in the rooms are strictly prohibited. Be sure that no pranks are taking place in the cabins or on the property. There are too many “harmless” jokes that can turn into lawsuits, if we are not careful with what we allow to happen.
SUMMER GAMES | 9
CAMP STAFF GUIDE RO O M I N S P E CT I O N - All rooms will be inspected daily. All rooms must be left clean before leaving each morning. A checklist of tasks that need to be completed is posted in each room. Many campers have never been challenged with cleaning before. Allow your guidance in this area to be a mentor moment! K I D S CA M P S P I R I T AWA R D - The Kids Camp Spirit Award is awarded at the end of camp to one boy room and one girl room who show outstanding camp spirit. Kids Camp Staff will be watching throughout the week, and they will make note of cabins displaying excellent camp spirit. Some examples of camp spirit are: • Making a door banner for your room (Supplies are available at camp during Open Recreation) • Decorating your room • Chanting, singing, etc. while going from one activity to another • Picking up trash as a group – when not asked • Leaving notes or testimonials for the Deans to collect during room inspections • Random acts of kindness Also, a Front Row Pass will be awarded daily to one boy room and one girl room for outstanding daily camp spirit. S U P E R RO O M - Super Room is awarded at the end of camp to the one boy room and one girl room with the highest total points. Points are earned by the following: • Cleaning your room daily • Bible Reading • Morning Recreation Games Bible Reading Points must be noted each day on the form provided in each room. They must be turned in to the Dean on Thursday night to count toward Super Room. Demerits will be given for tardiness to any scheduled event, activity, or service. CA M P E R O F T H E RO O M - Camper of the Room is awarded to one camper from each room that has shown Christ-like characteristics throughout camp. Campers will vote on the last night of camp. P E R S O N A L B E LO N G I N G S - Please respect the personal property of others. Do not borrow anything without permission. Kids Camp is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items. Campers are not allowed to bring electronic devices of any kind to camp. This includes cell phones, computers, tablets, CD players, iPods, etc. Staff who bring electronic devices to camp, do so at their own risk. If warranted, the camp leadership reserves the right to search for and hold or dispose of personal belongings. LO S T & F O U N D - Lost & Found is located in the Camp Office. If items are labeled, we will do our best to return them to their owner. We will hold all lost & found and left over luggage for one week. All items not claimed within one week will be donated to charity.
10 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
CAMP STAFF GUIDE S E RV I C E T I M E - Please take campers to the restroom before the service begins. Campers will not be allowed to go to the restroom during service, unless accompanied by their coach. During services, coaches are required to sit with their campers. To allow for closer access to the front, each room will be assigned a color that will alternate each night. Your room’s color will be listed on your room door. Support Staff may sit with the campers from their church, but they will be required to quietly exit quietly when the altar call starts on the first night’s service. This will allow the Support Staff to prepare for the next event. During the afternoon services, support staff may stay for the entire service. O F F L I M I T S! • The recreation property to the south by the lake waterfront is OFF LIMITS, except for announced activities. • If a camper has a history of sleep walking, falling out of bed, or other sleep challenges, do not allow the camper to sleep on a top bunk. • Jumping from bunk to bunk, standing on beds, or jumping off the beds is strictly prohibited. It is the responsibility of the coach to monitor this behavior. • No one is to leave the camp without permission from the Camp Director or Assistant Director. • Please do not perform Water Baptisms while at camp. This is a very important time in a child’s life that should be shared with their parents. Encourage campers to go home and discuss this important step with their parents and pastor. We don’t want parents to miss this significant event! • Visitors are not allowed at camp, except credentialed Assemblies of God ministers. Even though credentialed Assemblies of God ministers are allowed at camp, they still must check-in with Security at the front gate. A L E RT B A N D S - Campers who have allergies, medical issues, special needs, or who need to take medication will be given bracelets to identify the issues of the camper. Coaches need to make themselves aware of all special circumstances related to the campers in their room. S P E C I A L F O O D N E E D S - If you, or a camper in your room, have food allergies and have brought your own food to prepare for meals, please see the KP Director. They will show you where to store and prepare your food. They will also put you in contact with the head cook. She may be able to assist you or your camper with your food preparation or provide an alternative food item. CO N C E S S I O N S T I M E - During recreation times and each night, the Concession Stand will be open. We will have items available for $0.50 and up. The proceeds from concessions go toward running our camp. They help keep the price of our camp affordable. Therefore, no outside food or drinks are allowed at camp. (This does not apply to special needs food.) B A N K B A N D S/B U D DY B A N K - Campers are encouraged to deposit their spending money into the Buddy Bank and exchange it for bank bands to purchase items from the concession stand. A coach must be present for a camper to withdraw more than $5 at a time. A special band will be given to purchase a T-shirt. At the end of the week, all money that is not spent will be returned. Please note: The Buddy Bank will close 10 minutes before the end of recreation time, so please plan to make withdrawals before this time.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 11
CAMP STAFF GUIDE K.I.D. Z. RA D I O - During evening concessions time, KIDZ Radio will be up and running with our very own live DJ! We want to assure you that all music played is from an approved playlist. The list contains Christian songs, Christian parody songs, and just plain “fun songs”. We encourage coaches to participate in camp dances with their campers! You will make memories for sure! S E V E R E W E AT H E R - Please become familiar with the Severe Weather Instructions posted in each room. We will do our best to quickly notify each cabin of schedule changes or delays. With a camp our size, rainy day plans do take some time to get into place. Thank you for your patience! M A I L D E L I V E RY - Camp mail will be delivered to your room daily. Big Box of the Day will be announced and delivered at the end of Chapel each day. If you have mail that you would like to be delivered, you may bring it to the Information Booth in The Solid Rock.”. Make sure that each envelope is labeled with the camper’s name, church and delivery day. K I TC H E N PAT RO L ( K P ) - Each room will be assigned one meal that they must help the kitchen staff with serving and cleaning. On the meal you are assigned KP, you will be allowed to eat early during the KP meal time. Check the schedule in your packet for your KP assignment day. Please report to the KP Director at your scheduled time. R E C R E AT I O N - All campers must stay with their group during recreation times. During Open Recreation in the afternoons, groups may split up to do different activities – as long as campers are with an adult at all times. In a camp of our size, the Recreation Director cannot possibly carry out the recreation without help and cooperation of the coaches and/or support team. If you are assigned a certain game, the Recreation Director will give you the rules of the game, forms, etc. to adequately aid in supervising the activity. Sporting equipment is costly, and without proper supervision, young people get carried away in their enthusiasm and needless breakage occurs. F E E T O F F T H E F LO O R - During “Feet Off the Floor” time, campers are required to be in their room. Devotions, Bible reading, naps, discussions, etc. may take place. F AC I L I TY G U I D E L I N E S - We are very thankful and excited to have a new camp facility. We ask for your help in maintaining it. Please help us to keep the facility in great condition by following these listed guidelines: • Do not move any furniture without the permission of the Camp Directors. • Do not use tape, tacks or pushpins, mounting squares, etc. on the walls to decorate your room. Painter’s Tape is acceptable, but it must be removed at the end of camp. • Please make sure your room is ready for daily inspections by cleaning according to the checklist. • Please inform the camp office if any item is in need of maintenance. • Do not bring food or drinks into the cabins. (Water IS allowed.)
12 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
CAMP STAFF GUIDE R E P O RT A B U S E - Oklahoma is a mandatory reporting state for abuse of any kind. Every person in Oklahoma who has reason to believe that a child under 18 has been abused or neglected or is in danger of being abused or neglected is required by law to promptly make a report. Failure to report child abuse is a misdemeanor offense. A person who reports suspected abuse in “good faith” is immune from criminal or civil liability. If you suspect abuse or neglect, call your local Department of Human Services or the Oklahoma Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-522-3511 If the child is in imminent danger, contact 911 or local law enforcement.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 13
STAFF RELATIONSHIPS TO T H E CA M P D I R E CTO R A N D E X E C U T I V E S TA F F - You have a responsibility to the Director and Executive Staff. They help coordinate the entire camp. The ultimate responsibility for camp rests with them. They expect you to know your job and do it. They will expect you to pitch in where extra help is needed. Don’t wait to be told to do something; volunteer. Bring concerns and questions to the right authority. TO F E L LO W S TA F F M E M B E R S - You also have responsibility to your fellow staff members. Assume your share of the load—even the unpleasant tasks. A word of appreciation or encouragement will brighten someone’s day. Respond promptly to any request of the executive staff. Avoid cliques. This is not a time for romance. Instead of gossiping about others, pray for each other. TO CA M P E R S - You have a responsibility to all campers. You will be their friend, guide, and authority. You are responsible for their health and safety – both physically and spiritually. Help them to develop a sense of belonging. Each camper has something to contribute to the group. Seek to discover this and encourage its development. Each camper is different. Become personally acquainted with each one. Set goals for each camper. Write their names in the back of the manual and seek to identify spiritual needs, social adjustment needs, etc. Toward the end of camp, evaluate each camper’s progress. Encourage the campers to set goals for themselves. Encourage the campers to participate in the camp activities. Some will be shy and will need this encouragement. Don’t make fun or ridicule. Guide them into areas they can successfully participate. Always remember camp is for the campers!
14 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
HOW TO HELP A CHILD RECEIVE SALVATION By: Martin Perryman Statistics tell us that 85% of all people who are now Christians were saved between the ages of four and fourteen, so we know the children we deal with in Kids Camp are at a prime age to receive the Lord. They are also at a critical age due to the fact that they are highly impressionable; and that the age where the children drift into drugs, etc. , is getting lower and lower. Because of these things, it is important that you, as a coach, know something about leading a child to the Lord. Here are some guidelines that will help: Don’t use a lot of symbols. Children do not always understand terms like “let Jesus into your heart,” “be born again,” or talk about an “all seeing eye”. They can understand, though, about being a member of a family---invite them to become a member of God’s family. Ask Questions that help a child express his feelings and depth of understanding. Some examples are: What do you like best about Jesus? or How do you feel about the fact that Jesus loves you? Deal with Individuals - not groups. Take Time To Help A Child At The Time He Inquires About Salvation. Don’t put a child off if it is at all possible. Don’t say, “Wait until morning.” God is dealing with them then and later they may not be interested. Let Them Make Their Own Decision. If, after counseling, the child doesn’t want to pray for salvation, don’t push them. They may not totally understand, or hindrances you are not aware of might be present. Pushing may drive them away from salvation instead of having the effect you want. Formula for Salvation: • Show a child their need of salvation by showing the Bible says they have sinned. (“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” Romans 3:23) • Show them that God has provided a way to forgive their sins. (“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 and “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16) • Lead them in prayer. If it is apparent they know how to pray on their own, simply pray with them until they are satisfied that they are saved. If they are hesitant about praying, encourage them to repeat a prayer that you pray. It might go . . . Dear Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and that you sent Jesus to forgive my sins. I ask you to forgive my sins, and to help me live for you. I accept Jesus as my Savior. Thank You, God, for forgiving me. In Jesus’ name - Amen.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 15
HOW TO PRAY WITH A CHILD FOR THE HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM By: Martin Perryman Salvation brings us into a right relationship with God – but the baptism in the Holy Spirit give us the power we need to live and work for God. Praying for children to receive the Holy Spirit is something that you will probably do as a coach in Kids Camp. The following suggestions may make your task easier. 1. Find out the name of the child you are praying with. This may sound unimportant, but it helps you make your dealings with that child more personal and meaningful. 2. Be sure the child is saved and that there is nothing that they need to ask God’s forgiveness for. It is unlikely that they will receive the Holy Spirit if these things are not tended to. 3. How Should the Child Pray? A. They should ask, specifically, for the infilling of the Holy Ghost. (“And I say unto you, ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Luke 11:9) B. Pray out loud. The evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit is speaking in an unknown tongue. This cannot happen if the child doesn’t pray out loud. C. Praise the Lord. . . not just with general words of praise (hallelujah, glory, etc.), but for specific things God has done for them (salvation, blessings etc.) 4. How Should You Pray? A. Ask God to fill the child. The instructions of Luke 11:9 apply to you just as much as to the child. B Praise God for and with the child. C. Pray in tongues. This can help them feel less self-conscious when the Holy Spirit begins to try to speak. D. Encourage the child to speak out as the Holy Spirit comes. Tell the child that the Spirit gives words, but they have to speak them. E. Get other Spirit-filled youngsters to pray around the child. 5. Things A. B.
You Should Not Do: Attempt to teach the child to speak in tongues by saying, “Repeat after me. . .” Shake the child’s chin or vibrate their throat to make them speak in tongues. REMEMBER: the Spirit gives the utterance; you are only there to encourage prayer and praise!
6. When The Child Is Filled. A. Encourage them to continue praying in tongues – not just then, but later in camp, at home, or any time you pray. B. Tell them that as they use this gift God has given them, it will grow stronger. 7. Tell
Those Who Don’t Receive The Baptism In The Holy Spirit: A. God loves you and still wants to fill you, so keep seeking this gift of God. B. See if they understand whom the Holy Spirit is, and what His purpose is for their lives. C. Encourage them to read Acts 2 before the next service.
16 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
MORNING RECREATION DISCUS THROW
Teams spread out over the court. Teams must advance the discus down the court and throw it through their goal. Players may not run while holding the discus. They must stop running when the discus is passed to them. They must either pass to a teammate or throw their discus through their square. Opposing teams may try to intercept the discus and advance the discus to their goal to score. The team with the most points at the end of the game is the winner.
SHOTPUT SHOOT OUT
Standard dodge ball rules apply. Each team must have an equal number of players. If a player is hit with the ball before a bounce - the player is out. If a player catches the ball before a bounce - the thrower is out. NO HEADSHOTS! Players who intentionally aim for and hit another player in the head will be ejected from the game. Players may deflect a thrown ball by using a ball in their possession. The team with the most victories at the end of the allotted time is the winner.
STEAL THE TORCH
Each team will go to the opposite ends of the playing field and face the center of the playing field. Players will be given a number. When the referee calls out the number of a player, that player must run to the center of the playing field and grab the Torch. After grabbing the Torch, the player must make it back to their side of the field without being tagged. If he is tagged out, the other team gets the point.
MAKE IT TO THE GAMES
Object of the game is to get your entire team from your home country and make it to the Olympic Games. Each team is allowed one boat (floor scooter) and one rope. Players are not allowed to touch the “water”, or they must return to their home country. It is up to each team to figure out a way to get their team across the ocean – without touching the water. Students are allowed to stop at the Island (mat) but can’t stay there too long. The winner is the team who makes it to the Olympics first.
BIBLE OLYMPICS/BIBLE OLYMPICS 2.0
Each coach and camper will receive the Bible questions on the first day of camp. The Bible questions can be studied during free time to prepare for each match. Each room will play Day One & Day Two of Bible Olympics. The rules of the game will be explained on the day that your team meets for each match.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 17
LET THE GAMES BEGIN RUNNING TO WIN Day One
Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it for a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Corinthians 9:25
Read About It: 1 Corinthians 9:25 Talk About It: Athletes from all over the world are gathering to compete in every kind of sport you can imagine - soccer, swimming, diving, gymnastics, track, tennis, bicycling, and many more. These men and women in the Olympics train very hard in the hopes that they will win a medal. In each event, only one team or one person can win the top prize. All of the athletes worked very hard, but there can only be one winner. Discuss It: The Bible says that life is similar to games such as the Olympics. The Bible says that everyone who competes in the games goes into very strict training and works very hard to win a prize. Some people compete in the game of life for personal gain. Perhaps they do it so that they can become famous, or be very popular, or to make a lot of money. The Bible says that their prize will not last. Some people compete in the game of life and work very hard because they love Jesus and want to bring honor to Him. The Bible tells us that they win a prize that lasts forever. In the Olympic games, there can only be one winner, but in the game of life, we can all be winners if we live for Jesus. Pray About It: Lord, help us to play the game of life in such a way that we will bring honor to you. Help us to remember that the victory comes from you -- not from ourselves. Amen.
18 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
WHICH COUNTRY IS BEST? Day Two
Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. Acts 10:34-35
Read About It: Acts 10:34-35 Talk About It: In the opening ceremonies, each country gets to parade into the stadium. Do you know how many countries are participating in the Olympics this year? 204! That is a lot of countries. There are countries from all over the world. Which country is the best? Do we determine the best country by who wins the most gold medals? By how big the country is? By how much money it has? Do you think God has a favorite country? Discuss It: There was a guy in the bible named Peter, who thought that the Jewish people were the best. He thought they were better than anyone else in the whole world. Do you know what God showed him? He showed Peter that he was wrong and Peter said ‘I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.’ God does not show favorites. He doesn’t care how big or how small, how much money, or how many gold medals a country has. He loves every person in every country in this whole world. So, if God loves every person in every country in this whole world, should we? We can show God’s love to people across the world, by praying for them, by helping those in need, and even by going and visiting other parts of the world, if that’s what God wants. God does not show favorites, and we should make sure that we don’t either. Pray About It: Dear God, we thank you for the perfect way that you love us, and we ask that you would help us to love all of your people around the world in the same way. In Jesus’ name we pray - Amen.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 19
RUNNING WITH ENDURANCE Day Three
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2
Read About It: Hebrews 12:1-2 Talk About It: Just how big are the Olympics? Here are a few facts that will give you an idea of just how big the Olympics are: • • • • •
There will be more than 10,500 athletes competing for medals in the Olympics. There will be 206 countries represented. There will be more than 6 million tickets sold. There will be a record 6,500 hours of television coverage. It is estimated that about 4 billion people will watch at least part of the Olympics on television.
Now, that’s big! The athletes have worked long and hard for the opportunity to represent their country and to try to win a medal. They are going to keep their eye on the prize and will not let anything stand in the way of doing their very best. Discuss It: The Bible describes a race that you and I are running that is even bigger and more important than the Olympics. The Bible says, “Since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses, let us run the race that God has set before us. Throw aside anything that will slow you down. Keep your eyes on Jesus.” What is this race that we have before us? It is the race of following the example that Jesus set for us and expects us to follow as one of his disciples. It is a race of obedience to God’s Word and faithfulness to Jesus’ call to “Follow me.” Can you imagine an Olympic athlete starting the race and giving up when the medal was within his reach? The race may not be easy, but the prize will be worth giving our all. Never give up! Keep your eyes on Jesus and, like the apostle Paul said, “Press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Pray About It: Father, help us to be faithful in running the race which you have set before us. We pray that we will keep our eyes on Jesus and follow the example he set for us. Keep us from the sin that will keep us from faithfully running our race. In Jesus’ name we pray - Amen.
20 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
FOLLOWING JESUS Day Four
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV)
Read About It: Matthew 16:24-25 Talk About It: Why do the athletes go to the Olympics? They go to the Olympics to win a medal -- hopefully the gold. In recent years, perhaps the most recognized Olympian has been Michael Phelps. Michael was a twenty-threeyear-old swimmer who won eight gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. That’s more than anyone in history. How would you like to win eight Olympic gold medals? Before you say, “Yes,” you might want to hear more of Michael’s story and the sacrifices he had to make to win those medals. When Michael was eleven years old, he was swimming in a pool in Baltimore, Maryland. A swim coach by the name of Bob Bowman noticed him. He immediately realized that Michael had extraordinary talent. He talked to Michael’s parents and told them that the boy was very gifted and could become an Olympic champion if he trained right. He told them that it would require a total commitment to training and told Michael that he could never reach his full potential by living the life of a normal kid. So, from the time he was eleven, Michael gave up almost everything else in his life to devote himself to becoming the greatest swimmer in Olympic history. Michael Phelps lost the life of a “normal kid,” but he found greater fulfillment in life as an Olympic champion. Discuss It: Just as Bob Bowman saw great potential in Michael Phelps, Jesus sees great potential in each of you. That is why he has called you to become his disciples. Will it be easy? No way! Jesus once told his followers that to be his disciple would be very difficult. “If any of you want to be my follower, you must forget about yourself, take up your cross, and follow me.” Jesus took up his cross, didn’t he? He took his cross and carried it up a hill where he was crucified. He knew he was going to have to suffer, but he also knew he would win the victory in the end and so will we. Jesus promised, “If you give up your life for me, you will find it.” Some boys and girls think that life is all about having fun. If they spend their lives looking for fun, they never know the real joy that comes from being a follower of Jesus. Will following Jesus be easy? No, but it will be worth it! Pray About It: Jesus, we want to be all that you want us to be. We know that we can never realize our full potential until we make a commitment to follow you. Amen.
S U M M E R G A M E S | 21
NOTES
22 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
NOTES
S U M M E R G A M E S | 23
NOTES
24 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
NOTES
S U M M E R G A M E S | 25
SCHEDULE F I R S T D AY O F CA M P
LA S T D AY O F CA M P
1:00p Registration (DC) 4:00p Camper Orientation (WC) Staff Orientation (DC) 5:00p Getting Settled in Rooms 5:45p KP Dinner (DC) 6:00p Dinner (DC) 7:30p Doors Open for Service (WC) 7:45p Evening Service (WC) After Service Concession Stand Opens Lights Out 30 Minutes After Concession Stand Closes
7:00a 8:15a 8:30a 9:30a 9:40-10:40a 10:45a 11:30a
F U L L D AY O F CA M P 7:00a Wake Up 8:00a KP Breakfast (DC) 8:15a Breakfast (DC) 9:15-10:30a Chapel for Campers (WC) 9:25-10:25a All Staff Devotion (DC) 10:45a-12:25p Recreation 12:30p KP Lunch (DC) 12:45p Lunch (DC) After Lunch-2:30p Feet Off the Floor (C) 2:45p Doors Open for Service (WC) 3:00p Afternoon Service (WC) 5:30p KP Dinner (DC) 5:45p Dinner (DC) 7:00-9:00p Open Recreation 9:00-10:00p Concessions/KIDZ Radio 10:45p Lights Out
26 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
Wake Up KP Breakfast (DC) Breakfast (DC) All Campers to WC Staff Check-Out (DC) Camp Celebration & Awards (WC) Camp is Dismissed
S U M M E R G A M E S | 27
28 | K I D S C A M P 2 0 2 1
