Growth Over Comfort

Is Making Our Kids Comfortable and Happy the Ultimate Goal? 

As parents, we love seeing our kids happy. It’s natural to shield them from discomfort and challenges—it feels like the right thing to do. After all, what parent wants to see their child struggle? But is keeping them comfortable truly what’s best for them in the long run? 

The truth is, while keeping our kids comfortable may feel good in the moment, it’s worth considering the bigger picture. Are we preparing them to become strong, resilient, and Godly adults, or are we unintentionally paving the way for dependence, entitlement, or fear of hardship? 

True growth doesn’t happen during moments of ease but through times of challenge. If our kids never learn how to navigate adversity, how will they respond when life throws its inevitable curveballs? 

At RVR, our central goal is to create experiences where growth can happen. We believe that stepping out of our comfort zones is transformative, and summer camp provides the perfect environment for that transformation.

One parent described this beautifully: 

     “RVR was exactly what my son needed. He came home with stories of overcoming fears, making new friends, and feeling closer to God.” 

Fostering this kind of growth—where kids gain confidence, maturity, and a deeper understanding of themselves—is at the very heart of what we do at RVR. 

Is Comfort the Goal? 

Let’s face it: real growth happens outside of our comfort zones. Life’s challenges teach resilience, faith, and character—qualities that don’t flourish when we shield our kids from every struggle. At camp, we specialize in creating opportunities for growth. 

As Brené Brown wisely said, “You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort, but you cannot choose both.” Camp provides a unique space where kids can practice choosing courage—whether it’s trying an unfamiliar activity, making new friends, or navigating challenges independently. 

Moments That Spark Growth 

Whether it’s: 

• Facing a fear of heights on the zipline... discovering they’re capable of more than they imagined!

• Managing a conflict with a cabinmate... learning to navigate relationships with patience and understanding builds life-long relational skills!

• Trying something brand-new, like horseback riding... stepping into the unknown teaches courage and curiosity!

• Choosing between elective activities, making decisions at the camp store... taking responsibility for their time and choices with independence and confidence!

• Building new community making new friends under the guidance of great leaders... learning to thrive socially in new environments!

• Engaging in small group discussions that challenge their perspectives and help them explore their faith more deeply... learning to trust God more fully, communicate beyond a surface level, and grow closer to Him!

These moments foster grit, self-discovery, and a deeper trust in God. 

One parent shared: 

     “It’s important to have a tech-free environment… a place for my child to experience independence in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.” 

Another parent noted, “The week she spends at RVR is my child’s favorite week of summer! I love that she has something to look forward to and gets to spend an active week away from technology.” 

Beyond the exciting activities, camp provides kids with opportunities to connect—with God, others, and nature. This isn’t just a week of fun (though there’s plenty of that!); it’s a foundation and template for lifelong transformation. 

Raising Kids for More 

Happiness isn’t the goal, but it is often a byproduct of purpose and growth. At RVR, our mission aligns with parents who want more for their kids—an experience that equips them to face the real world with courage and faith. 

As Fred Rogers said, “Strength doesn’t come from winning. It comes from struggles and hardship. Everything that you go through prepares you for the next level.” Camp provides the kind of meaningful challenges that build strength and prepare kids for what lies ahead, both in their faith and in life.

One parent described it perfectly: 

     “RVR exudes positivity and a message of hope and love. The counselors give it their all. Middle school kids can be tricky and sensitive, and they deal with them well.” 

At RVR, every activity, conversation, and challenge is designed to help kids grow into who God created them to be. Whether they leave camp with new friends, a deeper faith, or greater resilience, the impact lasts long after they return home. 

Rooted in Faith 

The Bible reminds us in James 1:2-4: 

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” 

At camp, challenges become opportunities for this kind of spiritual growth. When campers step out of their comfort zones—whether they’re climbing a high ropes course, managing homesickness, or wrestling with big questions about their faith—they learn to trust God and experience His strength in new ways. 

This year’s camp theme, “No Matter What,” reminds campers that God’s faithfulness never wavers. Just as God was with Daniel in the lion’s den, He is with us in every trial, guiding us and holding us firm—no matter what. 

What’s Next? 

If you’re ready to give your child the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone, grow in resilience, and deepen their faith, now’s the time to explore camp options. Imagine the stories they’ll come home with, the friendships they’ll make, and the confidence they’ll gain. 

The Takeaway 

It’s okay to want your kids to be happy, but let’s not make happiness the final destination. Together, we can raise a generation that embraces challenges, grows in faith, and discovers the true joy found in becoming all God intended them to be. 

As one parent said, “RVR gave my child an experience they’ll carry with them for the rest of their life. They came back stronger, more confident, and closer to God. It’s the best gift I could have given them.” 

This blog is the first in a three-part series exploring growth at camp. Next, we’ll dive into “Helping Your Child Prepare for Growth at Camp,” with practical tips to set them up for a transformative experience. Finally, we’ll share “How to Help Your Kids Debrief Their Camp Experience” to ensure the lessons learned stick and continue to shape them long after camp ends. 

 

Ready to let your child step into confidence, resilience, and faith? Learn more about RVR’s life-changing camp programs here.