Top 10 Communication Do’s and Don’ts with Campers

1. DO listen often, without prejudgment, to what they say. This communicates care as much as any words you can use.
2. DON’T put children off when they ask questions. They will stop asking and seek the information elsewhere.
3. DO use frequent and sincere praise. It’s the best reward possible.
4. DON’T correct children in front of others if possible. Nothing hurts self-esteem as much as being made a fool in front of others. Children will be much more receptive to counsel if you do it quietly in private.
5. DO be firm. Children prefer rules, schedules, and boundaries. Contrary to how you think they feel, knowing what is expected of them makes them fell more secure.
6. DON’T nag. If you do, they will protect themselves by ignoring you.
7. DON’T be inconsistent. Inconsistency causes confusion because the campers don’t know what to expect.
8. DO discover their unique qualities and encourage their development. Encourage them to feel good about their unique, one-of-a-kind talents.
9. DO stick to your word and keep your promises. If you give the child a choice when they really don’t have a choice, you will have to go back on your word. If you make rash promises, you will have to break them. Both of these make kids feel betrayed, perhaps more than we realize. If you are also inconsistent, the campers will form a negative bond of pessimism and a lack of faith in you.
10. DO state information clearly and briefly. Campers don’t like listening to speeches, they want to PLAY!