As a church professional, Vacation Bible School can be one of those "banes of my existence." The budgeting, prep, planning, cajoling volunteers, corraling teens, and sending save the dates out months in advance only to hear "we didn't know; we booked ___ that week and can't come". 

Yet, Vacation Bible School is amazing. Watching small children shed their shyness to showing their true personality, seeing the lights turn on when they hear God's powerful stories, and watching tiny hands figure out new motions to songs is something I love.

This summer, consider sending your child to VBS.. not just to "get them out of the house", but to give them a chance to grow. If you are of a Christian faith based community, even in a rural setting, there will be at least one VBS for your child to attend!

Why?

1) Your Child will grow. 

They will become comfortable with new experiences, new places, and new people. They will make friends. They will also grow in their understanding of God and God's world. 

2) Familiarity with church buildings

Did you know that the Barna Institute considers once a month regular church attendance these days? Since covid, many of us in the children & youth ministry world actually think it's more like once every six weeks. We get it, life is busy. But when you are away, your child never gets comfortable with the "church routine." This gives your child a chance to explore the buildings and be comfortable for the next time your family gets to worship.

3) Teen Volunteers

Teen volunteers are special in their own right. As they give up their time & energy, you can see where their leadership skills are developing. From leading music dances to chasing kiddos during game time; teens are vital to VBS too.

4) Exposure to God's Word

Your child's exposure to hearing God's Word through bible stories, songs, and the love of people is oh-so-important; no matter what your regular worship attendance is like throughout the year. VBS songs and VBS stories might stick with them for years to come! Of course, be diligent and research VBS themes, depending on your families belief styles. Some curriculums are more conservative than other curriculums; so just take note! 

No matter if VBS is one day or five days, your child will have lots of fun, make new friends, and learn about God! 

Of course, just like any new adventure, your littles might be hesitant at first. That happened this week, during my own. But by last night's day 3, they come running in with smiles on their faces, attaching themselves to their favorite adults, and giggle with shriekful glee when the teens chase them during freeze tag! 

Also, thanks to all you Saints out there who do volunteer for VBS. You are vital to your churches' faith formation of the young people in your community!