My Disappointing Experience with The Woodlands Methodist Church Science Summer Camp (July 20-24,…read more2026)
My grandson was registered for the week-long science summer camp at The Woodlands Methodist Church from July 20, 2026, to July 24, 2026. Four of his friends were also registered for the same camp. Unfortunately, while his friends were placed together in one class, my grandson was assigned to a different class with children he did not know. He was very disappointed and wanted to be with the friends he already knew. I requested that he be moved to their class, but my request was denied. I spoke with the registrar, Miss Kathy, who explained that there were over 1,200 children in the camp and that they do not make changes. When I asked how many similar requests they had received, she said, "Zero." I found it very disappointing that, despite this being the first request, there was no willingness to make an exception. I also spoke with the director, Miss Wendy, but received the same response. They suggested that he make new friends, but this was only a five-day camp, not a long-term school environment. I understand children come to camp to learn, but learning is most effective when a child is happy, comfortable, and excited to participate. A child who feels unhappy will not have the same opportunity to enjoy or benefit from the experience.
My biggest disappointment was the lack of flexibility, compassion, and understanding. I expected a church-operated program to reflect values of kindness, support, and love. Instead, I felt that rules were placed above a child's happiness. I am not a regular church-going person, but I have always heard people talk about "our church" and wondered what that meant. After this experience, I can say The Woodlands Methodist Church did not feel like a place that represented those values to me. It is sad when people in positions of authority focus more on policies than on showing compassion.
I had a very disappointing experience and would encourage parents to ask questions about class placement and policies before registering their children. The camp does not offer refunds, and they are welcome to keep my fee as a charitable donation. I would not send my grandson to a place where I do not feel there is genuine love, support, and understanding for children.
