Why It Matters #
Mealtimes are more than just eating — they’re a key part of the camp day. Children refuel, bond with friends, and reset for the next activity. But because energy is high and structure is looser, this is when accidents, behaviour issues, or allergen risks can sneak in.
Our job is to make lunch and breaks:
- Safe – no accidents, no missed allergies, no lost children.
- Smooth – clear routines and transitions in/out.
- Social & Fun – a chance for kids to relax, laugh, and enjoy camp traditions.
Core Principles #
- Supervision Never Stops – breaks are not staff downtime. Ratios apply at all times.
- Safety First – allergy checks, no food sharing, first-aid on standby.
- Structured Freedom – children can relax, but staff set the tone (positive, calm, inclusive).
- Staff Model Behaviour – your attitude shapes the atmosphere.
Lunchtime Procedures #
Before Lunch #
- Transition Safely: Follow transition protocol (headcounts before leaving activity and again on arrival at lunch area).
- Set the Scene: Leaders guide children to sit in designated areas (indoors or outdoors).
- Hygiene First: Encourage handwashing/sanitising before eating.
During Lunch #
- Supervision Zones:
- Staff are positioned around the space (front, middle, back) — no clustering together.
- At least one staff member stands where they can view exits.
- Allergy & SEND Care:
- Children with food allergies or medical needs must sit in designated areas (or with their group if safe).
- Leaders check their food before eating.
- No Food Sharing: Remind children not to swap food.
- Behaviour Management: Use calm voices, keep the vibe social but under control. Redirect rowdiness quickly.
After Lunch #
- Tidy & Reset: Children clear their area and dispose of rubbish.
- Lost Property Sweep: Remind children to check for water bottles, coats, and lunchboxes.
- Headcount: Confirm full numbers before moving to next zone.
- Transition: Handovers follow the normal transition process.
Snack Breaks #
- Timing: Morning and afternoon, 10–15 minutes max.
- Supervision: Same rules as lunch — ratios, positioning, headcounts.
- Hydration Focus: Encourage every child to drink water. Refill bottles where possible.
- Snack Safety:
- No nut products or allergens allowed.
- If sharing snacks provided by camp, staff serve — children do not self-serve.
- Active Options: Staff may lead quick “energiser” games (stretching, chant, riddle) to keep spirits up before moving back to structured activity.
Making Lunch & Breaks Magical #
Adventure Camps isn’t just about activities — the magic should spill into mealtimes too. Staff can add fun traditions that children will remember:
- Table Chants or Songs: Quick, silly songs led by leaders.
- Lunchbox Shout-Outs: Pick one creative or healthy lunchbox to celebrate each day.
- Themed Days: Tie in with weekly theme (e.g., “Pirate Lunch” = everyone says “Arrr!” before eating).
- Buddy Tables: Mix children from different groups once per week for social bonding.
- Spirit Spotting: Award beads or pins for kindness, sharing space, or helping others at lunch.
Common Risks & How to Prevent Them #
- Allergy Exposure: Strict no-sharing rule; staff actively check.
- Lost Children: Always complete headcounts before/after breaks.
- Overcrowding: Stagger groups if space is small.
- Behaviour Spikes: Pre-empt boredom — use mini-games or conversation starters.
- Staff Gaps: Staff breaks are scheduled separately — never during child mealtimes.
Example Scenarios #
Scenario 1: Allergies
A child offers their friend a bite of a nut bar. Wrong response: “Don’t do that” (too late).
Right response: Intervene immediately, remove allergen, remind group firmly of the no-sharing rule, and log with Site Manager.
Scenario 2: Behaviour
Children start throwing fruit peels at each other. Wrong: Ignoring it until it escalates.
Right: Step in quickly, redirect energy with a positive activity: “Okay team, let’s do a 60-second riddle challenge instead.”
Scenario 3: Transitions
After lunch, one group leaves before a headcount. Wrong: “We’ll catch up later.”
Right: Stop, recount, confirm numbers before any group moves to the next activity.
Staff Responsibilities #
- Activity Leaders/Zone Leaders → Supervise designated groups, manage behaviour, ensure headcounts.
- Assistants → Support supervision, spot allergy/behaviour issues, encourage hydration.
- Site Manager → Oversees lunch procedures, ensures allergy plans are in place, coordinates staggered use of space if needed.
Quick Tip 💡 #
Think of lunch and breaks like mini activities. Structure them, supervise them, and sprinkle them with camp magic — and they’ll become some of the best parts of the day.
