“A child is a rare gift given by Krishna, but at the same time a great responsibility; every parent has the responsibility to see that his child grows up Krishna-consciousness. I know that you understand this, and will always make Krishna the center of your home” – Letter from Srila Prabhupada, August 15, 1967

With this message in mind, organizers, counselors, parents and even the kids are gearing up for another inspirational Detroit, USA ISKCON Krishna Kidz Camp (www.krsnakidzcamp.com) that will take place over the Thanksgiving holiday (November 21 to 24th, 2012). For the last several years, kids ranging from age 2 to 15 have enjoyed their time off from school and taking part in the fun and educational Krsna Kidz Camp. The camp proves to children that Krishna Consciousness is fun and exciting and this keeps them coming back for more and more.

From the humble beginnings of a few congregational kids getting together over the holiday for some fun and Krishna-conscious learning, the Detroit Krsna Kidz Camp has grown to become a professionally run program with over 60 kids participating in the four days of spiritual bliss. It appears that the Detroit ISKCON Krsna Kidz Camp has grown to become one of the largest camps in the US.

This year, the organizers are raising awareness and adding several new features to help attract even more kids. Their goal is bring 100 kids closer to Krsna and make a lasting impression on them. Some of the new features include a cool new website with online registration, daily bus transportation from a densely populated suburb of Novi and more marketing to raise awareness. At the camp, kids will experience newly added yoga sessions, enhanced breakout sessions and more involvement from senior devotees.

So what is it that keeps the kids so enthusiastic and excited about camp? Why do they literally run from the parking lot into the Temple? Why are parents already asking about the timings and plans for this year? The organizers adhere to a simple recipe of ISKCON’s Fouder Acharya, A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada, who emphasized the need to cultivate good qualities and strong character as aim of real education. The camp counselors spend an extraordinary amount of time planning fun, interactive sessions for the kids that keep them engaged and enthusiastic for learning about Krsna consciousness. The kids enjoy the variety of crafts, arts, music and activities, making new friendships with like-minded peers, performing their own arati and kirtan and much more.

On the final day of the camp, all parents and congregation members are invited for an amazing performance by the children. Each age group presents various dramas, musical performances and more. It is an amazing experience to see all what the kids learned during the camp come to life in front of our eyes through this stage performance. The parents appreciate all that they have learned, but are even more surprised at how much fun they have at the camp. Seeing all the smiles and enthusiasm of the children and parents keep the counselors and organizers driving for greater success.

To keep memories of camp fresh throughout the year, all kids receive a free t-shirt designed in line with the theme of the camp. This year’s camp theme is LinkedIn with Krsna – join the Bhakti Yoga Network. Kids will explore the various ways in which they can connect with Lord Krsna, including service, japa, kirtan, and more. Practical activities will be taught so that children can become LinkedIn with Lord Krsna everyday.

The organizers are inviting kids from all over the country to take a Thanksgiving break and join them at the 2012 Detroit ISKCON Krsna Kidz Camp. They have arranged lodging and prasadam for all out of town guests.

Creating a strong spiritual foundation in early childhood is the best gift a parent can give their child.

For more details, please visit: www.krsnakidzcamp.com or call Nitya Kishori Devi Dasi at (1) 248-318-1502.