While our kids were growing up, Rambo and I were always trying to create a balance in their lives between fun, education, family bonds, and long-term investments that would shape what kind of people they would become in the world. Now on the “launching” end of parenting, we’re really seeing where this intentionality is paying off. We imagined back then that the experiences we gifted them that stretched and broadened their faith, confidence, resilience, and friendships would be the most impactful; and to our delight, this is absolutely what has happened!
With Christmas gift decisions on the immediate horizon, considering an experiential gift like a session of camp is a wonderful idea. Camp checks all the boxes of broadening faith, confidence, resilience, and friendships, and providing memories they will talk about into adulthood, as our kids now do.
I read a terrific article this week written by Amy Webb, Ph.D. where she refers to an eye-opening statistic: Since 1970 the American population has grown 60%, but American consumption of consumer goods (adjusted for inflation) has increased 400%. If the whole world bought things at the rate at which Americans consume “stuff” (i.e., consumer goods), it would take five planet Earths to support us! Dr. Webb goes on to say that Some studies have shown that when people receive an experience gift rather than a tangible, material gift, they have a stronger emotional response. The researchers believe that this response helps strengthen the bond between the gift giver and the gift recipient. Also, one study showed that people who received an experience gift showed more gratitude than those who received a material item. These findings are thought-provoking when it comes to our kids!
We would love to help you give the gift of summer camp! Over the past 21 years we have heard countless kids, many now grown, as well as our own kids, talk about the growth, memories, friends, and FUN camp has been in their lives. Many met the Lord for the first time at Strong Rock or had their relationship with Him strengthened while here. We would love this for everyone, so please let us know what we can do to help you or your friends give the unforgettable gift of Camp for Christmas!
Webb, Amy Ph.D. (2025, July 12). The Science-Based Reason Why Experience Gift Are Great For Kids. The Thoughtful Parent.Read the Article Here