YoungLives Handbook - Flipbook - Page 35
ESSENTIAL # 9:
CAMP
A YoungLives camp consists of the same elements as a traditional Young Life camp, adjusted for
pregnant teens, teen parents, children, and childcare. YoungLives camping provides teen parents with
the opportunity to have fun and act like a teenager again while they hear the gospel in a new way. In
addition, they enjoy time with their mentors and peers as they experience camp with their children. The
relationships built at Young Life summer and weekend camps play a major role in creating momentum
once campers return home.
CHARACTERISTICS OF YOUNGLIVES CAMPING
Although YoungLives camps are very much like their regular Young Life counterparts, there are several
special elements to accommodate teen parents and their children.
Children
We accommodate the children of teen parents, in addition to the campers themselves, by
providing quality childcare for infants and toddlers up to 48 months of age.
Childcare
Camp fees for childcare volunteers are funded through an area contract. Areas may choose to ask
their childcare volunteers to either pay the fees in full or participate in fundraising efforts to help
cover the cost. Alternatively, areas can offer scholarships to childcare volunteers if they wish.
Childcare volunteers have the privilege of spending meaningful time caring for babies and young
children, while also building strong community with fellow volunteers. They experience
camaraderie during shared meals, free time, and their own club activities. As they serve at camp,
childcare volunteers often witness God's presence and work, not only in the lives of the children
they care for, but also among themselves, teen parents and other camp participants.
Childcare is provided during scheduled activities for teen parents. Children are with their parents
during free time, meals and overnight.
Childcare volunteers typically stay together in dorm style cabins.
Each area participates in recruiting childcare volunteers to meet the designated childcare needs for
the camp.
Please see the full policy in the YoungLives Camp Toolbox on the Staff Resources Site.
CLICK HERE to see the website for YoungLives Summer Camp Childcare information.
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