Creating a Positive Camp Culture #
At Adventure Camps, we believe behaviour management is about creating the right environment from the start. Children behave best when they feel safe, respected, and engaged. Our role is to lead with positivity, set clear expectations, and handle challenges calmly and consistently.
Setting the Tone Early #
- Warm welcomes → Every child should feel noticed and valued from the moment they arrive.
- Clear expectations → Share ground rules on Day 1 (e.g., respect, kindness, listening, safety). Keep them simple and repeat often.
- Positive reinforcement → Praise effort, teamwork, and kindness. What you highlight grows.
Engagement is the Key #
Most behaviour issues disappear when children are busy, challenged, and having fun.
- Keep sessions active with minimal “waiting around.”
- Adapt games so all abilities can succeed.
- Rotate roles often so no child feels left out.
Step-by-Step Strategy #
When behaviour slips, follow these steps:
- Reminder → Calm, clear, and positive: “Remember, we’re listening so everyone can enjoy the game.”
- Warning → Direct but kind: “If you choose not to listen, you’ll need to sit out for a short time.”
- Time Out/Reflection → Remove from activity for 2–5 minutes. Staff stays calm, no lectures.
- Reintegrate → Invite them back with encouragement: “Ready to give it another go?”
- Escalate if Needed → Inform Site Manager if behaviour continues, or if safety is at risk.
Non-Negotiables #
Certain behaviours require immediate escalation to the Site Manager:
- Bullying or repeated unkindness.
- Violence or unsafe behaviour.
- Refusal to follow safety instructions (especially in pool, tech, or sports zones).
- Any safeguarding concern.
Top Tips for Leaders #
- Stay calm → Children mirror your energy.
- Don’t take it personally → Behaviour is communication, not a reflection of you.
- Consistency matters → Follow the same steps across all zones so children know the rules are the same everywhere.
- Team support → Never handle escalating behaviour alone; back each other up.
Quick Tip 💡 #
Shift focus from “telling off” to coaching better choices. Phrases like “Let’s try it this way together” go a long way toward “Stop doing that.”
