some time to work with him or her and we’ll keep you posted.” By erring on the side of more information, you not only signal parents that there may be an adjustment or behavioral problem with their child, you make it clear that you are willing to go above and beyond to help their child succeed. In the case that you mention in your e-mail, any time a child is hurt — purposely or by “accident” (horseplay) — and a mark is left, it is best to inform parents. Besides wanting to know if their child is okay, they will of course want to know if this was provoked or if the offender did it purposely. If it was intentional, most parents want to know what consequences there might be for the offender. (Parents are always keen about justice on behalf of their children!) Certainly, the last thing you need is any camper going home with a mark, bruise, or injury that is unexplained. Parents then think you have something to hide. I know of a camp in the western part of the United States that last year did not inform parents of a prank perpetrated by one camper against another that went awry. The camp figured that because it started out as “good natured” horseplay (even though the camper who was the object of the prank had not consented) they didn’t need to call the parents. However, as you might imagine, the parents were very upset when they found this out after the fact. In cases of horseplay, harassment, bullying, or retaliation, if a child is hurt physically or emotionally, parents should be told. I hope this helps! In the future I’ll offer more examples of behavioral issues at camp that are best shared with parents. Bob Ditter is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in child, adolescent, and family therapy. For more information about the author, visit www.BobDitter.com. “In the Trenches” is sponsored by American Income Life Insurance. Time to address all your bedding needs. edding by www.bourdons.com 1-800-231-5468 Bourdons has been fulfilling your bedding needs for 87 years. SIGNATURE SERVICES FOOD SERVICE SPECIALISTS • Nutrition Specialist • Management Staffing • Menu Planning • Purchasing Cost & Inventory Control • Food Preparation & Service • Kitchen Design We Do It All – Turn Key & Professional! 2705 Hawes Ave. • Dallas, TX 75235 • 800-929-5519 • Fax 214-358-5873 www.SignatureServices.com Signature Services_11.indd 2 8/2/2011 4:44:29 PM CAMPING magazine • November/December 2013 7
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