Bringing Weekends Home

At Falling Creek, weekends are more than just a pause from routine — they’re a refreshing mix of play, rest, reflection, and connection. And as the bell rings for Monday morning, many boys are recharged in ways they might not even realize yet. But parents often wonder: how can we bring some of that rhythm, joy, and intention home? Let’s take a walk through a weekend at camp and explore how you can mirror its spirit in your own home.

Saturday: Compete, Create, Connect

Saturdays at camp are filled with friendly competition, high-energy games, and room to explore interests. The morning kicks off with optional tournaments — from dodgeball and soccer to Magic and ping pong. Campers can also choose quieter options like sketching in arts and crafts or card games in the shade.

This past Saturday’s highlight was a Minecraft/MineRAFT game — running around camp and in the lake was highlighted with a round of Minecraft Trivia. After two rounds of spirited strategy and muddy sneakers, both teams claimed a victory.

You’d be amazed how quickly a group of 10-year-olds can plan a sneak attack when a flag’s on the line.”

At home: Try a weekend family tournament. Let each person pick a game — card, board, or backyard — and build your own family Olympics. Or create a Capture the Flag match in a park with neighbors. Add a creative twist: can you only run when you’re singing your favorite camp song?

Sunday: Slow Down and Soak It In

At camp, Sundays are sacred. We sleep in an extra hour and start the day with Krispy Kreme doughnuts — the perfect treat for a day that’s all about slowing down and reconnecting. Campers clean their cabins top to bottom (yes, even under the bunks!) and earn ice cream sundae line priority based on how clean their space is. A simple chore becomes a goal with a sweet reward.

Parents, don’t be surprised if your camper suddenly cares about how well the bed is made!”

At home: Make Sunday morning sacred. Sleep in a bit. Start with a shared breakfast treat, then let kids take ownership of tidying their room. Offer a small but meaningful reward — maybe they get to pick the family movie or dish out the ice cream toppings that night.

Church: Courage, Faith, and Shared Values

After cleaning, campers change into white shirts and head to our outdoor church service. Falling Creek is a Christian camp with a non-denominational service focused on values we can all grow from. This week’s theme: Courage. Campers listened, sang, laughed at skits, and reflected on how they can be brave — whether by speaking up, trying something new, or showing up for others.

At home: Start a Sunday discussion tradition. You don’t need a sermon — just pick a value (like courage, patience, or generosity), light a candle, and ask your kids where they’ve seen or lived out that value this week. Encourage storytelling — the sillier or more sincere, the better.

Ice Cream Motivation

After church and a hearty Sunday lunch (fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, warm rolls), comes the moment everyone waits for — ice cream sundaes. Cabin cleanup scores determine who lines up first, but every camper walks away with a bowl full of toppings and smiles.

At home: Make it a tradition. A Sunday Sundae Bar is a perfect way to reward effort and celebrate time together. Let kids help set it up or add a “flavor of the week” to make it feel special.

Special Signups: Time to Try Something New

In the afternoon, we offer Special Signups — one-off activities that break the routine and showcase our counselors’ passions. This week included bike mechanic workshop, a Go strategy game, hiking, kickboxing, photography, and trail maintenance. The idea is simple: try something new, just because it’s fun.

At home: Let your kids be the “counselors.” One afternoon, let them teach or lead a new skill — even if it’s silly. Want to learn how to draw a unicorn? Build a LEGO tower with one hand? Host a dance party to their favorite playlist? Follow their lead.

Sunday Evening Campfire: Reflect and Rest

We close every weekend with Campfire — songs, laughter, stories, and a sense of belonging. Boys huddle close, soaking in the glow of firelight and friendship before heading to bed. It’s a favorite time at camp, and it always ends with Taps: “All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.”

At home: Try your own version. No fire pit? No problem. Light a candle, grab a flashlight, or sit under string lights in the backyard. Share stories from the week, sing a silly song, or go around saying something you’re proud of. Create a ritual that says: this week mattered.

From Camp to Kitchen Table