A purposeful and positive approach to discipline benefits all members of the camp community. Staff should take a proactive approach to discipline by considering the basic needs of campers and keeping campers appropriately busy. Inappropriate behavior should be handled by discussing the behavior privately with the camper. (KS)

The American Camping Association 2001 National Conference at Walt Disney World draws parallels between the administration of camp programs and practices at Disney World. Seminars led by Disney managers focus on recruitment of college students, development of a corporate culture and philosophy, emphasis on environment, and quality service that…

Describes adapting an organizational technique used by cartoon animators to camp planning. A story board is a bulletin board on which are posted tasks on file cards. Columns for "to do,""doing," and "done" make it easy to track progress, add and save information, involve other staff members, set priorities, organize…

In April 2002, the National Transportation Safety Board reissued a cautionary warning about the high accident potential of 15-passenger vans; some states have prohibited their use for transporting children. Three camp directors discuss legal and cost considerations for camps, possible alternative transportation, additional staff training needs,…

Behaviors that constitute violence include threatening behavior, verbal or written threats, harassment, verbal abuse, vandalism, theft, arguments, and physical attacks. Describes 14 policy actions that camp management can take to prevent violence, 20 warning signs of violence, how violence impacts camps, and 5 tips for creating a safe camp. (TD)

Resident camps have become year-round facilities, adding activities such as adult conferencing, environmental education programs, and corporate team building to the traditional childrens' summer camp. This has increased camp directors' responsibilities and created new camp positions. Camp directors are increasingly networking with each other and…

A Massachusetts camp for girls with diabetes offers advice on expanding programs to a year-round, intergenerational basis. Committed leadership is needed to implement the necessary needs assessment and program planning. Facilities must be winterized and funding efforts expanded. Build slowly, be patient, and use evaluations to guide program…

Discusses how camps can survive by changing their marketing approach, organizational structure, and programming to meet the needs of the community. Profiles Wyman Center, a residential camp near Saint Louis, Missouri, that has prospered as a result of breaking with tradition and redefining the terms "camp" and "customer." (LP)