ALIVE Kids Camps: A Life-Shaping Experience of Faith

Summer kids' camps have played a significant role in my own faith journey. As a parent and leader, I have countless stories that testify to the powerful acceleration of faith I have witnessed in children who encounter God’s presence and experience a revelation of their identity in Christ at camp. These experiences are not just fun-filled getaways; they are transformational encounters that shape young hearts and lives forever.

A Journey of Transformation: Jacob's Story

Jacob was the oldest of three siblings—a shy, disengaged boy who lacked confidence and spent most of his time gaming alone in his room. His mother, concerned, diligently encouraged him to attend church and seek opportunities to connect. I will never forget the Sunday morning she caught me in the church corridor, cautiously yet hopefully announcing that Jacob had agreed to go to kids' camp.

What unfolded was nothing short of remarkable. Each day, we saw Jacob come alive with joy. On the final night, I stopped him in the corridor and teased, 'Jacob, when you get home, you’re going to have to break the bad news to your mum.' He looked at me, puzzled, until I continued, 'She’s going to have to start driving you to youth group every Friday night!'

His whole face lit up with a beaming smile, because he and I both knew how many times he had refused and that it would now be her joy to do so, and what a profound change had taken place. Here he was, thriving and engaging with confidence and great expectation for what God had in store next. The first Sunday after camp, his mother approached me again, overflowing with gratitude. 'Jacob is a different child!' she exclaimed.

Jacob’s story is one of many. He stepped out of his comfort zone, encountered Jesus, and began a journey of transformation. Kids' camps are full of fun and adventure, but more than anything, they provide the perfect space for children to step into a personal relationship with God.

Encountering God in the Midst of Struggle: Maria's Story

Just last year, at ALIVE Kids Camp, I met Maria—a young girl carrying the heavy weight of grief and fear after being separated from her father due to war. Though she rarely spoke of it, her sorrow was evident. One evening, during a ‘praise party,’ she came to me in tears, asking for prayer. We prayed together, we cried together, and we made a declaration to trust God. That moment remains deeply imprinted in my heart.

Four months later, Maria arrived at church for a family Christmas movie night—this time, with her whole family. With the delight of a child whose prayers were heard and answered, she introduced me to her Dad.

These are the moments that remind us that kids' camps are not just about fun and games; they are sacred spaces where God moves in profound ways.

The Lasting Impact of ALIVE Kids Camps

1. Growth and Connection with God At the core of ALIVE Kids Camps is the opportunity for children to grow in their faith. These camps create a unique, immersive environment where kids experience God’s love in a tangible way. Through worship, prayer, and biblical teaching, they learn to trust in Him and develop a personal faith that lasts far beyond camp.

2. Building Lifelong Friendships Camp isn’t just about making friends—it’s about forging deep connections rooted in faith. Whether playing team-building games, singing worship songs, or sharing personal stories, the friendships formed at camp often last a lifetime.

3. Developing Confidence and Character ALIVE Kids Camps encourage children to step outside their comfort zones, try new things, and develop new skills. Whether conquering a fear of heights on the rock-climbing wall, leading a prayer for the first time, or participating in team challenges, these experiences help build confidence and resilience.

4. Impact Beyond Camp The transformation that happens at camp doesn’t end when it all wraps up. The lessons learned, friendships formed, and encounters with God stay with children, influencing their everyday lives. Many return home more confident, compassionate, and deeply rooted in their faith, often becoming more involved in church youth groups and continuing their spiritual journey.

A Transformative Adventure

For all the fun moments—sloshing each other with green gunge, zip-lining through the trees, and sipping hot chocolate under the stars—there are also sacred moments of surrender. Moments where you see God’s face in an eight-year-old and hear His voice in an eleven-year-old. Kids' camps remind us that God is within our children—as a force of goodness, a declaration of hope, and the fragrance of joy.

ALIVE Kids Camps are more than just summer activities; they are life-shaping experiences that provide children with the tools they need to deepen their faith and make meaningful connections. Each year, as children embark on this adventure, they step into something greater—an encounter with God that will impact their lives forever.

ALIVE Kids' Camps are the place in the UK for life-changing, memory-making, adventure-taking awesomeness!

Leaders can bring their kids groups to one of our 3-night/4-day ALIVE Kids' Camps where children in Year 2 to Year 6 will be able to connect with God, build friendships and make memories.

Find out more at alivekids.co.uk

Naomi Baskerville is the ALIVE Kids Camp Programme Coordinator and Kids Pastor at Mosaic Church, Coventry. She has been teaching and leading in children’s ministry since 2009, with a passion for helping kids encounter God while having fun. Naomi has also led mission trips, conferences, and family support groups. She is married to Scott, a mum of three, and loves celebrating, serving the church, and scuba diving!

Simon Hall is a Children & Family Specialist with over 25 years in ministry, helping thousands of children find and follow Jesus. He has led youth mission trips to Africa, over 30 kids' camps, and has baptized more than 250 young people. Simon lives in Cheltenham with his wife, Theresa, their four children, and a grandchild. He loves sports—especially Aston Villa and golf—family time, and his Labrador, Cally!