Set Boundaries Finally, I like to encourage camp personnel to about the nature of their environment in regards to what they want kids getting into. My wife and I recently adopted a puppy and went through a whirlwind of changes and tactics to help set the right boundaries and expectations. This, of course, was after our pup ate a few remotes, pulled down some curtains, tore a coat rack out of the wall, and devoured several cherished books. Once we realized the nature of the problems, we were able to establish hard, clear boundaries, and surround our dog with safe and appropriate play toys. Obviously, children aren’t the same as dogs, but kids certainly deserve the same type of discernment about a new environment. Ask yourself a few questions about the rooms and spaces kids will occupy: Are there obvious and clear boundaries? (Will kids know where they should and shouldn’t be without constant reminders?) What can kids easily get into? (If campers can easily get into all the things you want them to stay away from, perhaps you should rethink what’s handy.) What acceptable things are accessible? (If you want kids to play with the basketballs, do the kids have to get through locked doors and cabinets to get the balls out?) Does the setting reinforce the lessons you are focusing on? (If you’re working on quieter tones and calmer activities, being in a busy place is going to work against you.) Can campers be comfortable here? (Having a long discussion in air conditioning is easy, but having that same discussion in sweltering heat can be almost impossible.)
Set Boundaries Finally, I like to encourage camp personnel to about the nature of their environment in regards to what they want kids getting into. My wife and I recently adopted a puppy and went through a whirlwind of changes and tactics to help set the right boundaries and expectations. This, of course, was after our pup ate a few remotes, pulled down some curtains, tore a coat rack out of the wall, and devoured several cherished books. Once we realized the nature of the problems, we were able to establish hard, clear boundaries, and surround our dog with safe and appropriate play toys. Obviously, children aren’t the same as dogs, but kids certainly deserve the same type of discernment about a new environment. Ask yourself a few questions about the rooms and spaces kids will occupy: Are there obvious and clear boundaries? (Will kids know where they should and shouldn’t be without constant reminders?) What can kids easily get into? (If campers can easily get into all the things you want them to stay away from, perhaps you should rethink what’s handy.) What acceptable things are accessible? (If you want kids to play with the basketballs, do the kids have to get through locked doors and cabinets to get the balls out?) Does the setting reinforce the lessons you are focusing on? (If you’re working on quieter tones and calmer activities, being in a busy place is going to work against you.) Can campers be comfortable here? (Having a long discussion in air conditioning is easy, but having that same discussion in sweltering heat can be almost impossible.)
Clear_Away_The_Clutter.docx