PACC: Challenge By Choice
Challenge by Choice: Embracing Growth at Your Own Pace
One of the most powerful concepts at camp is "Challenge by Choice." It’s an approach that encourages campers to step outside their comfort zones while respecting their personal limits. This philosophy ensures that every camper feels supported as they take on new experiences, knowing that growth comes in many forms and at different speeds.
What is Challenge by Choice?
Challenge by Choice means that each camper has the power to decide how they participate in an activity. It’s about taking on challenges at a level that feels right for them—whether that means going all in, taking small steps, or choosing to observe and learn first.
Rather than feeling pressured to do something because everyone else is doing it, campers are encouraged to set personal goals, listen to their own instincts, and celebrate progress in whatever form it takes.
CLICK HERE to listen to our latest podcast episode about Challenge by Choice!
Why Challenge by Choice Matters
Camp is a place for exploration and growth, but growth looks different for everyone. Challenge by Choice helps create an environment where campers:
- Feel Safe and Supported – Camp should be a place of encouragement, not pressure. By allowing campers to make their own choices, we build confidence instead of fear.
- Develop Self-Awareness – Understanding what feels comfortable, exciting, or overwhelming is an important part of learning about ourselves.
- Build Resilience – Even small steps towards a challenge can be empowering. Each choice to try something new contributes to a sense of accomplishment.
- Learn Respect for Others – Every camper's journey is different. Challenge by Choice helps cultivate respect for individual experiences and abilities.
Camper Quest!
By completing 2 out of 3 Quests in April, campers can earn a special friendship bracelet!
Parents: Offer at least 3 “Challenge By Choice” opportunities at home and celebrate your camper’s decision!
Here are some examples that you can try at home
Challenge: Invite your child to help cook a meal—or even take the lead on planning and preparing a simple dish.
Why It’s a Challenge by Choice: They can decide what task to take on (measuring, chopping, cooking), which allows them to feel capable while learning new skills in a safe, supported setting.
Challenge: Encourage your child to reach out to a friend they haven’t talked to in a while—via text, phone call, or invite for a hangout.
Why It’s a Challenge by Choice: It involves social vulnerability and taking initiative, but they can choose the method and timing, making it a low-pressure way to build confidence in relationships.
Challenge: Invite your child to try something they’ve never done before—like a new board game, a musical instrument, a craft project, or even a beginner workout video.
Why It’s a Challenge by Choice: It encourages curiosity and resilience in the face of the unknown, while letting them choose how far to go and what feels fun and engaging.
What Challenge by Choice Looks Like in Action
At camp, Challenge by Choice can take many forms. Here are some examples:
- High Ropes Course: A camper might climb to the top of the course, while another might choose to climb halfway up, and yet another may decide to cheer from the ground. Every choice is respected and valued.
- Camper Show Performances: Some campers may choose to sing a solo, others might join a group skit, and some may opt to support their friends from the audience.
- Group Games & Activities: Some campers may eagerly volunteer for leadership roles, while others might prefer to participate in a quieter way.
Encouraging a Healthy Approach to Challenge
For campers, it’s important to remember that challenges aren’t about comparison; they’re about personal growth. Celebrate your own progress, whether it’s taking the first step or completing a full challenge.
For families, supporting Challenge by Choice means encouraging effort over outcome. Ask questions like, “What did you try today that was new?” or “How did you feel when you stepped outside your comfort zone?”
Camp is a place where personal victories happen every day, big and small. Challenge by Choice ensures that every camper gets to experience those victories in a way that feels right for them.
We’re excited to connect with you! For more PACC resources, CLICK HERE!
We’re here to help! If you have any questions about the topics above, please reach out to Katy Harvill via email.
