This FAQ is from the Holiday Programs Management Plan section 26

Poor Behaviour

Programs will be designed to ensure that children and families experience an environment where they are safe, secure, respected and their dignity is protected. Behaviour is managed in a positive way that enhances children’s development and self-esteem. Children will not be punished physically, disciplined or treated in a way that is degrading, humiliating or causes for fear and/or anxiety.

At the beginning of each camp, staff and children will formulate a set of rules for the program (see camp rules and guidelines) and discuss the consequences of not upholding these rules. Program rules will be based on respect for each other, staff and equipment. Staff will encourage children by outlining what is expected of them and explaining the consequences of making poor choices. Positive reinforcement will be used at all times and a stimulating and varied program will be provided.

When children are in conflict with each other, staff will encourage the children to resolve the situation themselves and aid them by making suggestions on how to do so. If children cannot resolve the conflict they will be removed from the situation and alternative means of resolve sought.

A) CONSISTENT POOR BEHAVIOUR GUIDELINES

1. Remind the child in an assertive but not aggressive manner what is expected and the consequences of their poor choice.
2. If the behaviour continues the child will be reminded again of the consequence that will result.
3. If the child continues to make poor choices after two reminders, the consequence will be enforced.

B) CONSEQUENCES MUST BE APPROPRIATE AND MAY INCLUDE:

• Being asked to complete a camp duty such as cleaning the life jacket shed or helping with cooks dishes.
• No canteen.
• Being removed from the activity and put into time-out, that is; the child will be made to sit away from the group in a clearly visible spot for a period determined by the camp coordinator/s or staff member (usually about five minutes). Before the child returns to the group the staff member will review with them what behaviour is expected.
• Not being allowed to play with a certain piece of equipment or participating in an activity (for example, when a child continually misuses that piece of equipment or is unable to abide by the rules of the activity).
• If a child continually is unable to abide by the camp rules, parents/caregivers will be called and asked to remind the child about their behaviour.
• If a child continually misbehaves in a manner that endangers them or other children, despite the above measures, parents/caregivers will be notified by the Camp Manager and asked to remove their child from the camp. The registration fee is non-refundable.

Staff will conference with children to decide what is expected of them and the resulting consequences.

Children will only be physically restrained if their or others immediate safety is at risk and verbal commands have failed and only as a last resort. This is a short term action that will be ceased as soon as the risk to themselves or others has been eliminated.