Embedded Files
To help you be successful with the behavior management system, we have additional tips and tools available for you to use.
A guide to use with children about what is worth sharing. We never want to discourage a child who needs help, but this can help with children who are motivated by getting others in trouble, rather than helping themselves.
A tool for children who get in frequent arguments. Teach them how to solve simple problems themselves. The goal is not to avoid helping them, but to empower them and teach self-sufficiency. Work through the process with them until they feel comfortable using it alone.
discussing negative behaviors
These tips can help when discussing negative behaviors to keep the conversation positive and productive. You should never be arguing with a child or parent. Try to deliver your message in a clear and calm way.
When speaking to children about negative behaviors
Be clear and deliberate. Do not assume the child knows what you are thinking and feeling. They often imagine the worst. In order to help them feel comfortable state those feelings out loud for them to hear.
“You are not a bad kid, and I am not mad at you. Do you understand why we can’t_________ when we are here at CARD?”
Explain your intentions. Many kids will “give up” once they get in trouble. If they are already in trouble, what is the point? Help them regain control over the situation by including them in your plans.
“When your parent gets here, I am going to talk to them. I am not going to tell them you are bad or in trouble, I am going to tell them______ (It is important to be honest and share with the child what you will say to the parents). Would you like to talk to them with me? Would you like to practice?”
Help them to find the right choice. If they are very upset, try and help them understand that the choices they make still matter. They can’t undo what happened, but they can change their behavior moving forward.
“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but even more important than the mistake is how we handle it. When your parents arrive, I can tell them you _________ then denied it, tried to lie and cried until they got here. Or I can tell them you apologized, made up for it, had a great rest of the day and I am very impressed with how mature you were. Which one do you think would be better? Great, then let’s get started!”
When speaking to parents about negative behaviors
Always discuss negative behaviors in private. If there are other people around ask the parent if you can speak to them and their child outside, in the hallway, another room, or at a table away from the rest of the program. This will allow everyone to feel more comfortable and avoid any embarrassment.
Be concise. Don’t add extra details and stay away from any judgements or opinions. Just quickly state the facts and allow the child to explain themselves.
“Tommy earned a Redirection today for pushing another child” instead of “Tommy was upset, and he decided to get back at Billy he would push him down.”
No labels. Describe what happened, don’t label the behavior with a word that could mean different things to each family.
Tantrum, meltdown, and “threw a fit” are good examples of what to avoid. Words like these can lead to “we wouldn’t call that a ‘tantrum’ in my house,” and will derail your conversation.
Behavior Notification Form Camps 2024.pdfThe Behavior Notification form will be used when campers are not adhering to expectations. This means staff have been clear in reviewing expectations, and given campers the opportunity to reset. If the behavior continues, the camper will be asked to go with the camp Director to discuss the behavior and the Director will complete the behavior notification form to review with the parent at pick up.
Behavior management recap
Set kids up for success!
Recognize positive behaviors.
Be clear with your expectations/rules.
Address behaviors immediately. If not addressed immediately, you have given the “green light” for the behavior to continue and it will be difficult to address that issue in the future.
Clear and consistent consequences. Give Resets and communicate behaviors with your site supervisor. (Consequences are to never include physical activity or group punishment.)
Don't be afraid to ask for help from your camp Director. They are always available to support you!
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