Summer is knocking at the door and students of all ages are marking the days until vacation. Like many grandparents nationwide, you may be searching for something special to do with your grandchildren. Have you considered hosting a GrandCamp in the comfort of your own home? After all, any grandparent is qualified to host a DIY GrandCamp. All you need is one or more grandchildren, God’s Word, a spark of imagination, lots of love, and the expectation to have fun.

If the idea of a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) GrandCamp seems daunting, look no further. Christian Grandparenting Network has created two ready-made DIY GrandCamp programs from which you can choose. The first one is entitled the Armor of God; the second one is Following Peter as He follows Jesus. (See descriptions below.)

We designed these programs for busy grandparents. Most, if not all, of the guesswork has been removed. You do not have to decide upon a daily schedule or create interactive Bible lessons. We have done this for you.

These DIY GrandCamp programs feature the signature pieces of the larger GrandCamp model. They provide a framework for you and your grandchildren to study God’s Word, enjoy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories, all the while growing in your faith in Christ and strengthening your relationship with one another.

Each program includes: 

• Fun and engaging Bible lessons
• Suggested schedule that can easily be modified
• Daily supply lists
• Scripture memorization
• Ideas for outdoor activities and games
• Evening devotions
• Instructions for the Blessing Ceremony/Family Celebration

Program Descriptions

Armor of God

In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul writes, “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 6:12). We have nothing to fear, because our Lord clothes us with his protective armor. As you study Ephesians 6:10-18 ,  you and your grandchildren will learn about God’s immense love for his children; the three ways Satan tries to separate us from God; six pieces of God’s armor and the purpose of each; and what it means to stand firm in prayer.  Do-It-Yourself (DIY) GrandCamp: Armor of God – Christian Grandparenting Network

Following Peter as He Follows Jesus. During this three-day GrandCamp, you and your grandchildren will “follow Peter as he follows Jesus.” You will read about the spiritual lessons Peter learned as he walked with the Lord and discuss how you and your grandchildren can apply these lessons to your own lives. You will talk about the importance of following Jesus (Matthew 4:19); trusting him (Mark 6:50), serving the way he served (John 13:14); and receiving his forgiveness  (I John 1:9).  Do-It-Yourself (DIY) GrandCamp: Following Peter As He Follows Jesus – Christian Grandparenting Network

Getting Ready

PRAY:

We recommend that before embarking on this DIY GrandCamp adventure, you seek God’s guidance and blessing. Scripture says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

When you pray, remember to bless the Lord by glorifying him and giving him thanks for your precious grandchildren, their parents, and this opportunity to share your faith with them. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your plans and preparations, so you fulfill his will for the camp. Mention each of your grandchildren (and any others who are attending the camp) by name, praying for their salvation and sanctification. Ask God to bless your camp and glorify himself in this adventure.

PLAN:

Yogi Berra said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” Plans are important not only for baseball but for your DIY GrandCamp.

It is imperative you include your grandchildren’s parents in your plans. Ask for their permission. Discuss calendar dates, travel arrangements, which grandchildren are attending (if not all), and any medical concerns. Address any other questions the parents may have. You might even want to discuss the idea of ending the camp with a huge celebration for the entire family.

We also recommend that you create a meal plan. Keep meals simple. You do not want to spend your time in the kitchen, unless preparing a meal is one of your family activities.

PREPARE:

The more you prepare, the more time you will have to enjoy your grandchildren. We’ve even created a To-Do list for you to complete prior to your grandchildren’s arrival. This list is in a larger font to print, and to cross off each task as it is completed.

Please remember that this is your DIY GrandCamp—not ours. Customize it to best serve your needs and the needs of your grandchildren.

FINAL NOTE: 

DIY GrandCamp creates a special opportunity for you to share your faith as you “do life” with your grandchildren. It is important to remember that life sometimes gets messy. Grandchildren squabble or become homesick; a shifting weather pattern brings storms the day you plan to swim. Your grandchildren are like sponges, watching how you deal with life’s messy moments. GrandCamp affords you the opportunity to show them a grace-filled life. Together with your precious grandchildren, you will draw into a closer relationship with Christ, celebrating God’s goodness and love and his design for family.

We pray God does a mighty work through you and your DIY GrandCamp as he builds a legacy of faith, generation to generation. Note: If you are interested in developing your own DIY GrandCamp curriculum, we want to recommend our GrandCamp Field Guide. GrandCamp Field Guide – Christian Grandparenting Network

Scripture references are in English Standard Version (ESV).