Set Clear Expectations
Why is it important to set clear expectations at the start of the week or day at camp?
So campers know what’s expected, which helps them succeed, have fun, and stay safe
How can we be physically present with campers?
Being among them, not off to the side or distracted.
What does it mean to validate a camper’s feelings?
Acknowledge and accept their emotions as real and important.
Name one basic need that should be met regularly during camp
Water, food, sunscreen, sleep, clothing, bathroom breaks, etc.
What are some things campers do not have control over at camp that could make them feel frustrated?
The schedule, activities, group members, and rules — these are usually decided for them.
What is one way you can clearly communicate expectations to your campers on Day 1?
Hold a group meeting where you share rules and allow campers to give input.
What does active supervision look like?
Doing activities and having conversations with campers, and consistently counting them.
What’s a good phrase to use when validating a camper’s emotions?
“It’s okay to feel ___” or “I understand that you are feeling ___.”
What might happen if a camper’s basic needs aren’t met?
They might feel unwell, act out, or struggle to enjoy the day.
What’s one simple way to give campers a choice during a no-choice moment?
Let them choose who to sit beside at lunch or which game to play during free time.
Why is it easier to ease up on expectations rather than introduce new ones later in the week?
Because campers already know the boundaries and aren’t confused or surprised by sudden changes.
What are two reasons why it is important to be there?
So we can redirect conversations if needed, so we can prevent conflicts or stop conflicts before they grow, so we can build relationships and help kids have fun, etc.
A camper says, “I’m mad we lost the game!” What’s a validating response?
“It’s okay to feel upset. I’d be frustrated too—let’s think about how we can do better next time.”
What is one example of a question we can ask to make sure a camper’s needs are being met?
“Have you put on sunscreen yet this morning”, etc.
How can giving back control help reduce challenging behaviors?
It helps campers feel respected and less overwhelmed, making them less likely to act out.
You notice your campers are constantly interrupting during group time. You realize you never explained how to get their attention. What should you do now, and what could you do differently next time?
Remind them of expectations and teach a fun signal (like “Andy's Coming” or clapping). Next time, introduce attention-getting strategies clearly at the start of the week.
A camper is having a minor conflict with another camper. How can being spiritually and emotionally present can help resolve it?
You can empathize, model kindness, and turn the moment into an opportunity to share care, compassion, and God's love.
What’s the difference between empathy and sympathy, and which should we show at camp?
Empathy means feeling with someone, not for them—at camp, we show empathy by connecting with their experience.
A camper is acting cranky and refusing to participate. What basic needs could you check in on?
Ask if they’re hungry, tired, need the bathroom, or need a break from the sun.
A camper is upset because they can’t choose the activity. How do you give them back a sense of control?
Explain the schedule, but offer a choice within it: “You can choose who to race on the inflatable!”
Show us what it would look like to communicate expectations to your group at the beginning of the week.
You tell us!
What are the four ways we can be present with campers? What is an example of each one?
Physical, emotional, mental, spiritual
Jimmy says, “I feel sad because I miss my mom.” Act out a 3-sentence response that validates his feelings and helps him feel better about camp.
“I totally get that—missing home can be really tough. I’ve felt that way too. We have three more activities until home time. How about we draw a picture for you to give your mom when you get home?"
List five basic needs campers rely on you to help manage and explain how forgetting each one might impact their camp day.
Water (dehydration), food (hunger/low energy), sunscreen (sunburn), clothing (too hot/cold), sleep (grumpiness/lack of focus).
Brainstorm 3 real-life examples at camp where you can give back control to a camper while still maintaining structure.
Whatever you come up with!