If you’ve spent time at camp, you’ve used behavior management. I have too. It’s often what we’re taught first, how to respond quickly, keep things moving, and make sure everyone is safe. And in many ways, it works. It helps us get through the moment.

But over time, I started to notice something. Even when behavior changed, the experience of the camper seemed tarnished as if a different response could create an overall better feeling and learning moment. And that’s where the shift begins.

What if behavior isn’t something to control but something to understand?

At camp, behavior is almost always communication. A camper who won’t leave the dock. A camper who keeps interrupting. A camper who hangs back instead of joining in. They’re not trying to make things hard. They’re telling us something.

Behavior support invites us to pause just enough to meet a camper right where they are. Not where we wish they were. Not where the schedule says they should be. But right there.

Over the years, I’ve learned that supporting behavior takes intention, it creates something steadier, more trust, more confidence, more belonging. This isn’t about abandoning structure or expectations. It’s about how we hold them in relationship, curiosity, and care.

We have strategies upon strategies for making this shift. Below are just a few.

1.     Use effective language.

Example: Instead of saying “Stop it.” Or “Don’t do that.”  Say “Please make

a different choice.” Choice is a powerful thing. Kids may not know it, but they can often choose their behavior. In addition, this alternative phrase sends a message of respect. It also says, “I see you as responsible for your own actions. You control your behavior. You choose your responses in life.” 

2.     Set expectations to prevent tricky behaviors.

Example: The key here is to let campers know what we expect of them in different situations such as the rules at Archery or what shoes to wear to the barn. A great opportunity to get the week off to a good start is to take some time on opening day to go over general expectations for the week. 

3.     Be playful.



Example: The playful approach is to join in with campers first, before we try to change their behaviors. Being playful can prevent tricky behaviors from the beginning and/or continuing. Being playful creates a connection with the camper(s) and tells them that you are there for them and that you think that what they say, feel and do are important. If we strive to make something fun, campers will be most likely to want to be with us and to follow our lead.

If these ideas and strategies resonate, we would love to tell you more.

 Peace,

Angi