I have great memories of Vacation Bible School (VBS) from when I was young. I loved singing songs, doing crafts and making new friends.  Vacation Bible Schools have come a long way since then. Now there are fun themes, fancy snacks and planned activities (some even have T-shirts and awesome experiments).  What better way for your children to shake off the boredom of summer and get out of the house?  Because of the popularity of these programs, registration can fill quickly.  Make sure to choose your favorite and contact them ASAP to reserve your spot!

JBLM

Joint Base Lewis-McChord is hosting an Everest-themed Vacation Bible School and hoping  "your children will have fun and make memories as they embark on the coolest adventure of the summer." The program is for children from 5 to 12 years old. Registration is now open; pick up forms at all Chapel facilities.

July 13-17, 8:30 a.m. to noon at Lewis North Chapel, Building 11621 on JBLM. Contact jblmvbs2015@yahoo.com.

Lakewood

Christ Lutheran Church says "it's going to be a blast at Son Sparks Lab!" This year, CLC is having a super fun chemistry and science theme. Its VBS is for kids 3 years old to those in 6th grade. This one came highly recommended by a number of parents, so I imagine spots will fill quickly.

July 13-17, 9 a.m. to noon, 112th St. SW Lakewood. Visit www.christlutheranlakewood.com.

First Baptist Church of Lakewood is preparing to "Journey Off the Map" with its theme this year. Children will participate in games, crafts, singing and fun in a friendly and safe environment.  Children who recently completed Kindergarten through 6th grade can join along on this VBS adventure.

June 22-25, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 5400 112th St. SW, Lakewood. Call 253.582.1000.

Lacey

The GraceWorks is rocking a Camp Kilimanjaro theme this year. "Welcome to Camp Kilimanjaro, where you'll have an epic expedition through the book of Proverbs!"

This fun camp is for kids in pre-school through 5th grade.

June 29-July 3, 5:45 to 8:15 p.m., 8100 Steilacoom Rd. SE, Lacey.

Visit thegraceworks.com or call 360.545.3935.

Olympia

Grace Community Covenant Church is also doing an Everest theme, and promises its VBS will be mountains of fun! There is a suggested donation of $15 per child, with a max of $30. Registration deadline is June 22.

June 22-25, 9 a.m. to noon, 5501 Wiggins Rd. SE, Olympia. Call 360.491.8954.