Banting Health Staff

Manual
2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: NATIONAL CAMPING PROGRAM INFORMATION

About the Canadian Diabetes Association

About the National Camping Program
Standards and Guidelines
Structure of the National Camping Program

SECTION 2: RISK MANAGEMENT

Incident Reporting
Transportation

SECTION 3: HEALTH & DIABETES MANAGEMENT

General Diabetes Management

Prevention of Blood Borne Pathogens
Safe Work Practices
Work Areas
Reusable Instruments
Gloves
Sharps Disposals

SECTION 4: D-CAMPS GENERAL INFORMATION

Camp Code of Conduct

Reasons for Immediate Dismissal
General Policies

SECTION 5: CAMP BANTING SPECIFIC INFORMATION

Organizational Chart
Role Descriptions
Typical Day
Emergency Procedures

SECTION 6: CAMPER MANAGEMENT

Behaviour Management at Camp

Recognizing Child Abuse
Relationships at Camp
Appropriate Touch and Inappropriate Touch
Homesickness and Bedwetting
Bullying

SECTION 1: D-CAMPS PROGRAM INFORMATION

ABOUT THE CANADIAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION
Charles Best, the co-discoverer of insulin, had a vision. Very early on he saw that the growing number of Canadians
living with diabetes was going to require an organization to serve their needs. In the late 1940s, the Diabetic
Association of Ontario was formed.
As the provinces and territories formed their own associations, it became clear that if the provincial branches
combined their resources they could more effectively serve their membership. This culminated in the formation of
Canadian Diabetes Association in 1953.
Established over 50 years ago, the Canadian Diabetes Association is a charitable organization that has grown to
include a presence in more than 100 communities across the country. The Canadian Diabetes Association promotes
the health of Canadians through diabetes research, education, service and advocacy.
The Canadian Diabetes Association works in communities across the country to eliminate diabetes through our
strong nationwide network of volunteers, employees, healthcare professionals, researchers, partners and supporters.
In the struggle against this global epidemic, our expertise is recognized around the world. The Canadian Diabetes
Association: setting the world standard.

ABOUT THE D-CAMPS PROGRAM

Since its inception in 1953, the Canadian Diabetes Association has provided children living with diabetes with the
opportunity to attend summer camp without feeling limited by their disease. Our camps have grown since this time,
and the Association currently operates successful camping programs in all provinces across Canada (excluding
Qubec and the Territories).
Our camps provide children living with type-1 diabetes opportunities to enjoy an authentic camp experience, while
having all of their diabetes needs monitored by a dedicated team of trained medical professionals. To accommodate
the diverse needs of our campers, the Association offers a variety of camping experiences, including residential
(overnight) camp, leadership development camp, family camp and day camp programming.
While at residential camp, children learn about diabetes management in an enriching, safe and fun environment with
other children who have had similar experiences to themselves. The educational aspect of camp focuses on blood
glucose testing, administering insulin, meal planning and proper exercise. In fact, many of our camp alumni recall
that camp was the first time they ever administered their own insulin a milestone in the life of a child living with
diabetes.
During their camp experience, campers interact with other children living with diabetes. Many of these relationships
develop into lifelong friendships, as children value the opportunity to meet others who have a personal understanding
of the challenges they face living with the disease. When children leave camp, they have gained a new level of
independence in managing their diabetes and feel empowered to continue the healthy practices they learned at
camp. Camp also provides parents with much needed respite as caring for a child with diabetes is a 24/7
responsibility.

At some of our camps, the camp program staff are living with diabetes and they are encouraged to manage their
disease in front of the campers, acting as positive role models in the care and management of diabetes.

GOALS OF D-CAMPS

Teach independent, self-management of diabetes

Nurture friendships
Improve self-esteem
Provide a safe, fun and educational camp experience

STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

The Canadian Diabetes Association takes its camping programs very seriously. Each of our camp programs must
adhere to a set of Camp Guidelines and Medical Standards. In addition, all of our D-Camps are accredited members
of the Ontario Camps Association.
You will be provided with specific standards based on your position at camp and your supervisor will go over them
with you to ensure you understand them entirely.

STRUCTURE OF THE NATIONAL CAMP PROGRAM

There are lots of people who work behind the scenes to make camp happen. The Canadian Diabetes Association is
in the fortunate position of having the expertise of many staff and volunteers, all of whom are dedicated to making
our camps the best they can be.

SECTION 2: RISK MANAGEMENT

Risk management provides a context within which to reduce uncertainty. Its goals are to preserve assets and identify
risk. The risk management process provides a format for you to develop plans, systems and procedures to anticipate
the various outcomes from your activities.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
At Camp Banting there are two types of emergency searches that may take place. During staff training week it will be
determined whether each staff member will fulfill the role of a diver for water searches or a land searcher.

INCIDENT REPORTING
The following has been adapted from the National Outdoor Leadership School:
An incident is an occurrence of an action or situation that is dangerous, or is a condition or event that results in injury,
illness, property damage, near miss (close call), other loss or potential loss. In an ongoing effort to reduce risk, the
Canadian Diabetes Association tracks all incidents.
Recording and tracking incidents is ESSENTIAL to manage liability, improve programs and reducing overall risk at
camps. By tracking incidents, trends may appear which will provide guidance for new ways of mitigating risk. Please
see the Canadian Diabetes Association National Camping Program incident report form in Appendix A.
All incidents must be reported according to the process in this handbook
Please note: to simplify reporting on accidents and incidents, all accidents will be referred to as incidents. Different
types of incidents are defined below.

LEVEL OF INCIDENT SERIOUS OR MINOR

The definitions of serious and minor incidents are broad, and will require the good judgment of the Camp Director
and Manager, Ontario Camps to determine if the incident is Serious or Minor. If an incident occurs, and it seems
unclear if it is a serious incident or a non-serious incident, air on the side of caution and respond as if it is a serious
incident.

SERIOUS INCIDENT
A serious incident is any behavioural, injury or illness that requires extended follow up and requires the camper or
staff to withdraw from the camp program for a program day or more. This could include having to send a camper
home for behavioural reasons, an injury that requires more than minor first aid, requires a trip to the hospital,
requires camp staff call emergency services, any illness that could be contagious and requires more care than is
available at camp. All serious incidents must be reported using the incident reporting form.

MINOR INCIDENT
A Minor incident encompasses the day to day incidents that happen at camp. They include minor behaviour
difficulties that can be addressed by camp Counsellors and camp directors, injuries that require minor first aid such
as applying band-aids, etc. minor illnesses, such as cough, cold etc. and near misses. Any minor incident that
requires follow up, such as disciplining a camper, seeking medical attention, or calling camper families need to be
reported.

Types of Incidents
BEHAVIOURAL
Any incident, that arises from the actions, responses or behaviours of individuals or groups of individuals. Examples
include: reluctance or unwillingness to participate, verbally or physically abusive utterances or acts, running away,
alcohol or drug use, bullying or any emotional or psychological situation or condition that compromises the campers
or staff ability to participate in the program.
Example: A cabin group of girls who have been coming to camp for three years together return to camp for their fourth
year. Upon arriving at camp, they are told that there is another younger camper, Annie, who will be joining them, and
that they should do everything they can to make that camper feel welcome. Within the first day the group of girls start
to exclude Annie from activities. They dont talk to her, they always make her wait last to try activities, and they call
her names. Annie is clearly a victim of bullying. Annies Counsellors pick up on this and address the issue with the
cabin. After their cabin meeting, things seem to improve for Annie. The Counsellors, complete an incident report to
describe Annies experience and the steps they took to resolve the situation.

INJURY
Any harm that impairs normal functioning or causes wounds or damage to a person.
Example: On the way to breakfast, a group of seven year old boys decide to race to the dining hall. Along the way,
camper Fred steps on a root on the path and rolls his ankle. Freds Counsellor catches up with the group and notices
that Freds ankle is swelling up. Freds Counsellor asks his co-Counsellor who is nearby to go get a nurse while he
supports Fred with his injury. The Nurse arrives at the scene and determines that Fred needs to go to the hospital. The
ambulance is called and Fred is taken to the local hospital. Freds Counsellor and the Nurse complete an incident
form together.

ILLNESS
Any ailment, sickness or unhealthy condition that interferes with normal functioning or causes distress.
Example: Camper Melvin is getting ready for bed when he complains that his stomach is upset. His cabin Counsellor
asks Melvin if he is okay. Melvin responds that he needs to vomit, and runs to the washroom. The Counsellor goes to
support Melvin. Once Melvin has finished vomiting, the Counsellor takes him to see the medical team. The medical
team conducts follow up and determines that Melvin has a stomach flu, and keeping him overnight in the infirmary
will help contain the illness. Once Melvin is comfortable in the infirmary, the Counsellor and medical staff complete
the incident reporting form together.

NEAR MISS
A near miss is a dangerous situation where safety was compromised but that did not result in injury. A situation,
where those involved express relief when the incident ends without harm.
Example: Camper Sandra climbs halfway up the rock wall. At this point, the staff member supervising the activity
realizes that Sandra is not properly tied into the belay rope. The staff member calmly asks Sandra to turn around and
climb down. Sandra safely makes it down to the bottom without injury or stress. Following the program period the
program staff who witnessed the incident completes an incident report form.

PROPERTY DAMAGE
Any loss, or harm to material goods that results in replacement or repair of those goods.
Example: Camper Johnny and Fred are playing baseball next to their cabin. Johnny hits the ball and it flies through the
window of their cabin. Knowing they made a mistake they go and alert their Counsellor. Their Counsellor takes Johnny
and Fred to the Camp Director, and informs the Director of the damage. The Camp Director discusses the problem
with the two campers, while their Counsellor fills out an incident report.

TRANSPORTATION
From time to time, camps will transport campers and staff to and from camp on field trips. Camps must use the
following policies when determining their transportation needs.

USE OF PERSONAL VEHICLES

Staff and volunteers who keep their vehicle on any camp property must keep their vehicle locked at all times.
Staff, volunteers, or medical staff are not permitted to transport campers in their own personal vehicle at any
time, regardless of the situation.
Staff MUST park their vehicles in the designated staff parking lot and not on the camp property.

SECTION 3: HEALTH & DIABETES MANAGEMENT

GENERAL DIABETES MANAGEMENT
All the campers and some of the staff at D-Camps live with Type 1 Diabetes. In T1D, the pancreas is no longer able to
produce insulin, therefore causing increased blood and urine glucose levels. Exogenous/synthetic insulin is taken via
needle or insulin pump in order to convert this glucose into a useable energy form. When an individual living with T1D
does not take enough insulin, hyperglycemia ensues. And when too much insulin is taken it results in hypoglycemia.
Insulin is taken throughout the day with the goal of keeping blood glucose levels in the 4-7mmol/L range, however
since camp life tends to be more active, the target range is 6-8mmol/L during the day and 8-10 mmol/L at night in
order to minimize disruptions. The ultimate goal of diabetes management is to maintain normoglycemia as much as
possible and to respond to the lows and highs as necessary.
A low blood glucose level is less than 4mmol/L in which campers will begin to exhibit signs and symptoms of
hypoglycemia (i.e. shaky, sweaty, slurred speech). On the reverse, campers tend to feel high when their blood
glucose levels are greater than 14 mmol/L and may begin to exhibit signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia (i.e.
fatigue, extreme thirst, dizziness, frequent urination). Ketones can begin to develop when the blood glucose is above
14 mmol/L. Therefore when campers have a blood glucose level above 14 they will test for urine ketones and report
results as indicated on the scale on the bottle.
Carbohydrates are counted prior to every meal. Carbohydrates are foods that contain sugars (simple, complex, or
dietary fibre). Some campers may follow a fixed meal plan which consists of approximately the same carbohydrate
value every day. However, most campers will vary their carbohydrate intake from day to day and insulin dosages will
have to be adjusted accordingly. At each meal the menu items are listed with the corresponding carbs per serving as
indicated by the Dietitians.

Protocols
STAFF & DIABETES
Staff living with diabetes have the opportunity to be great role models to campers and other staff. All staff, whether
living with diabetes or not, are expected to manage their health and wellness throughout the summer. In particular
though, staff living with diabetes are expected to check their blood glucose and take their insulin in front of campers,
managing their highs and lows in the same safe way as campers, abiding by the camp protocols.

PREVENTION OF BLOOD BORNE PATHOGENS

The following strategies have been developed to prevent the spread of blood borne pathogens such as HIV and
Hepatitis B and C. Camp physicians and nurses are at greatest risk for exposure; however camp personnel and
campers are also at risk.

SAFE WORK PRACTICES

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS
Universal precautions will be observed at the camp in order to prevent contact with blood or other potentially
infectious material. All blood or other bodily fluids will be considered infectious regardless of the perceived state
of the source of the individual.

HAND WASHING
Hand washing facilities will be available to all staff and campers throughout the camp site.

CPR
Pocket masks will be made available in the Insul-inn and strategic central locations to minimize exposure during
emergency artificial respiration.

NEEDLES AND OTHER SHARPS

Use a single lancet device or a combined disposable lancet/end cap for each blood glucose test.
Use caution when handling all sharps
Do not bend, break, recap, remove or manipulate any sharps by hand
Each camper/Counsellor should dispose of their own lancet and syringe in the sharps container
When assisting a camper or Counsellor with glucose monitoring, gloves are recommended.
Counsellors and other non-medical volunteers are not to assist with procedures that put them at risk of a
needle stick injury.

If a camper requires assistance with blood glucose monitoring or insulin administration, the Camp Physician or
Registered Nurse will provide this assistance.

WORK AREAS
Work areas include an area in each cabin where blood glucose testing is done or a designated table area in the main
lodge or infirmary where blood glucose testing is done.
Blood testing areas will be cleaned with a 10% bleach solution or equivalent after each monitoring session or
frequently throughout the day and after any blood spill before another person uses it.

REUSABLE INSTRUMENTS
Multi use meters will be wiped with a 10% bleach solution or equivalent and allowed to dry after each monitoring
session and after any contamination with blood.
Meters chosen for camp will be approved for multi person use by the manufacturer.

GLOVES
It is recommended that gloves be worn anytime it is reasonably anticipated that camp personnel will have contact
with blood or other potentially infectious material, including the following situations:

Assisting campers with blood glucose monitoring.

During housekeeping and cleaning involving blood and/or bodily fluids
Disposable gloves are not to be washed or reused. They must be discarded if peeled, cracked, discolored,
torn or show any signs of deterioration.

SHARPS DISPOSAL

Containers will be puncture resistant, leak proof and have openings that will not allow removal or contact
with contents
Only containers supplied by the Canadian Diabetes Association Camp may be used
All containers will be labeled with a biohazard label
Sharps containers will be located in all cabins, infirmary, and any other location where blood glucose tests
or injections may be done
When a sharps container becomes full, it will be sealed and replaced with a new container
At the end of each camp session, dispose of sharp containers in the safest possible manner.

SECTION 4: GENERAL D-CAMPS STAFF

INFORMATION
PRODUCT PROMOTION
Canadian Diabetes Association staff and volunteers, including all camp staff, and medical staff, and are not
permitted to endorse any specific products or brands.

CAMP CODE OF CONDUCT

Every employee and volunteer working at a Canadian Diabetes Association camp must read and agree to the Camp
Code of Conduct as a term of their employment and/or involvement with the camp. The Camp Code of Conduct was
included with your hire package.

POLICY STATEMENT
It is expected that employees and representatives of the Canadian Diabetes Association will live up to the highest
standards of conduct at all times. This policy has been developed to assist individuals in becoming and remaining
aware of expected conduct in the workplace and in relation to their roles with the Association. When in doubt about
how to act in a given situation, individuals should contact their supervisor or Human Resources for further guidance.
The Code is organized into the following categories:
Interpersonal
Providing Services
Personal Accountability
Confidentiality
Conflict of Interest
Interpersonal:
Treat other employees, volunteers, customers and all Association stakeholders with dignity and respect no
matter their personal characteristics, background or values.
Refrain from engaging in any behavior that could be considered discrimination and harassment under the
Associations Human Rights Policy.
Refrain from behavior that could be considered demeaning, bullying, threatening, intimidating or violent.
Do not be under the influence of, or affected by, illegal drugs, controlled substances or alcohol during
working hours (except at designated Association events).

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Act with honesty and integrity and in accordance with any professional standards and / or governing laws
and legislation that apply to the responsibilities you perform for or on behalf of the Association.
Comply with both the letter and the spirit of any training or orientation provided to you by the Association in
connection with those responsibilities.
Adhere to the policies and procedures of the Association and support the decisions and directions of the
Board and its delegated authority.

Take responsibility for your actions and decisions. Disclose any perceived or actual conflict to your
supervisor and/or Human Resources. Follow reporting lines to facilitate the effective resolution of problems.
Ensure that you do not exceed the authority of your position.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Respect and maintain the confidentiality of information gained as an employee or volunteer, including, but
not limited to, all computer software and files, Association business documents/printouts, and all
volunteer, employee membership, donor and supporter records.
Respect and maintain the confidentiality of individual personal information about persons affected by
diabetes gained through your role in the Association, for example, in meetings or in service programs.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

All employees owe a duty of good faith and loyalty to the Association.
Accordingly, they should not engage in any outside activities that place or could place them in a position of
conflict of interest.
Refrain from engaging in any outside work or business undertaking that would interfere with or compromise
your responsibilities with the Association.
Any other behaviour that would constitute a conflict.

PROCEDURE
Whenever an employee believes that they may be in violation of the Code of Conduct, they must discuss the situation
with their supervisor or Human Resources to get direction about what is required. Employees must report observed
violations of the Code of Conduct to their supervisor or Human Resources.
Where violations should be resolved with the procedures in another Association policy, this policy will be used as a
framework. In all other cases, an appropriate investigation will promptly commence and corrective action will be
taken as required. Corrective action may include disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Confidentiality will be maintained throughout the investigatory process to the extent consistent with adequate
investigation and appropriate corrective action. At the conclusion of the investigation, Human Resources will share
the findings with the alleged offender. Where a complaint is substantiated, the alleged offender may appeal the
results to the Vice President of Human Resources for further review, the results of which will be communicated to the
alleged offender. Where a complaint is unsubstantiated no written record will be placed in personal employment
files.
Retaliation against individuals for reporting discrimination and harassment or for participating in the reporting,
investigation or resolution of a complaint is a serious violation of this policy and will be subject to disciplinary action
up to and including termination.
Acts of retaliation should be promptly reported and will be promptly investigated and addressed.

ACCOUNTABILITY
Employees are responsible for promptly reporting any potential, perceived or actual violations of the Code of Conduct
and participating in any subsequent investigatory proceedings.
Supervisors are responsible for addressing any potential, perceived or actual violations of the Code of Conduct in
accordance with the procedures outlined.
Human Resources is responsible for investigating any reports in accordance with all applicable policies.

STAFF PACKING LIST

PLEASE NOTE, THIS IS A SUGGESTED PACKING LIST.
PUMPERS: Bring enough pump supplies for the
summer. Folks go through supplies much quicker
than in the city.

o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

Insulin
Reservoirs
Infusion Sites
Spare pump batteries
Skin-tac, Tegaderm, Skin-Prep, Emla Cream, etc. (if
used)
INJECTORS
Insulin
Insulin Pens (if used)
T-Shirts
Long Sleeved Shirts (August Gets Cold)
Sweaters
Tank Tops
Pants
Shorts (Of appropriate length
Bathing Suits (See Dress Code Policy)
Rash Guard or T-Shirt for High UV Index Days
Underpants
Socks
Sneakers
Sandals with Back Straps
Rain Jacket
Personal Toiletry Items
o Required Prescription Medications
Towels

Sleeping Equipment
o Sleeping Bag
o Pillow
o Fitted Sheet (Optional)
o Sunscreen
o Bug Spray
o Flashlight or Headlamp
o Sunglasses
o Water Bottles (2 1L Water Bottles)
o Laundry Bag
o Watch

Optional Items:
o
o

Laundry Bag
Silly Costumes

BRING AT YOUR OWN RISK

-

Expensive Cameras
Lap Tops
Fancy Electronics
Personal Camping Gear
Phones, IPods etc.
Cabin Stereos
Musical Instruments
Multi tool small knife for Trip

DO NOT BRING
-

Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco Products

Valuables
Large Knives, lighters, fireworks etc
A Bad attitude!
Personal over the counter medications community living does not provide security for storing these items
safely out of the reach of campers. Camp is happy to provide you with the things that you may need.

REASONS FOR STAFF IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL

REASONS FOR IMMEDIATE STAFF DISMISSAL WILL INCLUDE, BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING:

Inappropriate touching or comments Any form of abuse or neglect (if a form of abuse does occur, you must
contact your provincial child protection agency or the police)
Use of alcohol, non-medically prescribed drugs (e.g. marijuana, caffeine pills, medication not prescribed to
individual) and use of tobacco products or electronic nicotine devices are not permitted at camp.
Possession or consumption of alcohol prior to arrival at camp and on camp property will result in immediate
dismissal.
Staff who are of legal drinking age may consume alcohol on their time off, off site and may return to camp if:
o They return to camp and are in appropriate time-off housing by curfew.
o They are not and do not appear intoxicated.
o They are able to fully participate in a camp program or emergency at any time.
Compromising the safety of the camping program and of the campers, staff and volunteers through action or
neglect
Not adhering to camp rules or the Code of Conduct at the discretion of the Camp Coordinator

GENERAL POLICIES
TELEPHONES FOR PERSONAL USE
If you need to make a personal call on a landline, you are welcome to use the phone in the office with the approval of
the office staff. Phone cards or collect calls must be used for personal calls. Should you forget a calling card, one may
be purchased from the Camp Coordinator. There is a Bell pay phone available at the end of the Camp Banting.
driveway for staff to use.

CELL PHONES
Staff are allowed to bring electronics, including cell phones, to camp. However it is important that their use does not
affect the culture of D-Camps and that at no time do campers witness the use of cell phones and other non-medical
electronics. Staff are only allowed to use electronic devices inside buildings, when no campers are present and
during time off. Staff who are unable to comply with this policy will be asked to keep their electronics in their cabin or
have their electronics held by the Camp Coordinator until the end of their contract.
Staff are expected to be wearing a watch at all times, furthermore, they are to use an alarm clock for morning wake
ups and not their phones. In addition, staff are not allowed to charge their phones in cabins.

OFF SEASON COMMUNICATION WITH CAMPERS

Off-season communication with campers is prohibited, unless initiated by the camper. Any such communication with
campers in the off-season must remain friendly and professional. Information about staff members that is publically
accessible (for example, social networking websites) must reflect this professionalism. Relationships between staff
and campers on social media websites requires a delicate balance which must be carefully navigated. While campers
may add a staff member on social networks, it is prohibited for staff to add/follow campers. Any interaction between
staff and campers on these sites must be kept strictly professional. When accepting interaction with campers on
social media, it is a good idea to consider options such as limited profile, or postpone accepting the request until the
camper becomes a staff member. Although staff are only with campers two weeks of the year, it is important to
remember that they are role models and examples for campers year-round. If you do choose to accept a campers
request for interaction on social media, you are required to monitor your output in all manners. This includes course
language, inappropriate photos, crude behavior, illicit drug/alcohol references and the manner of diabetes-related
discussion. Social media networks include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Vine. Interaction
with campers in a more private way such as through text message, Snapchat, BBM, WhatsApp or any other
messaging device is also prohibited. This is a National policy and is binding as per your employment contract with D
camps.

STEREOS AND MUSIC

Stereos are permitted as we encourage music to be played at camp. Music must be camp appropriate, meaning that
lyrical themes must not be overtly sexual, profane, or offensive. Stereos must not interfere with other camp programs,
or be played late in the evening when campers are being put to bed and sleeping. The Senior Staff has the right to
request that you change music if deemed inappropriate, turn down, or turn off stereos at their discretion.
Staff must also consider lyrics and actions when performing acoustic or repeat after me songs. Sexually suggestive
lyrics area still not appropriate in this context.

ACCOMMODATION
All Staff will stay only in accommodation assigned by the Camp Coordinator. All concerns will be handled by the
Camp Coordinator.

PERSONAL FOOD
Staff are permitted to bring snacks to camp, however this food may not be stored in camper cabins. Staff living with
campers will be designated an area by the Camp Coordinator where personal snacks can be stored, and those staff
will be given access to that area during their time off. Personal snacks may not be consumed in view of campers, and
all packaging must be disposed of properly.

TIME OFF
Time off must be coordinated through immediate supervisors, which means either the Camp Coordinator or Assistant
Camp Coordinator, Medical Coordinator or designate, or Food Services Coordinator.
Time off for program staff commences at roughly 10pm, after all campers are in bed and those on night duty are in
the cabin and prepared. All program staff on night time off must return to their cabins by 11pm.

ALCOHOL, SMOKING, AND NON-PRESCRIPTION USE OF DRUGS

Use of alcohol, non-prescription drugs (e.g. marijuana, caffeine pills, drugs not prescribed to the user) and tobacco
products/electronic cigarettes are not permitted at camp. Possession or consumption of alcohol prior to arrival at
camp and on camp property will result in immediate dismissal.

GENERAL APPAREL
Please remember that clothing should always be camp appropriate and the Camp Coordinator reserves the right to
ask a staff member to change their clothing.

Shirts, shorts and footwear are required in the Dining Hall. No swimwear is allowed during meals.
All shorts and skirts must have a minimum of a 2 inseam.
Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times, except in specific instances as listed below. Everyone must wear
shirts on their way to the waterfront.
Shirts that cover shoulders must be worn during all waterfront activities if the UV index is moderate or higher.

SWIMWEAR
All staff, including health team staff, must wear a SPORTS-STYLE swimsuit (either one-piece or two-piece swimsuits.
Staff are prohibited from wearing two-piece bikini-style swimsuits or swimsuits that tie up. Also, in the spirit of
modeling good health, staff are also encouraged to wear rashguard type shirts in the water, for added sun
protection. All waterfront participants, campers and staff, will be required to wear a shirt that covers their shoulders
on any day where the UV index is rated above moderate. This is non-negotiable. The Camp Coordinator and
Waterfront Head have the right to ask staff to change their swimwear if it may be interpreted as inappropriate.

MANDATORY PROGRAM APPAREL

All staff must set an excellent example for campers and appropriate apparel that protects from the sun and elements
is an integral part of this role modeling. In addition to wearing all required safety equipment, staff must wear the
following personal apparel to each program area.

VANDALISM
The defacing and destruction of camp property is a serious matter. Staff caught defacing or damaging property may
have their employment terminated, and will be invoiced for the repair or replacement of that property.

O RGANIZATIONAL CHART
Manager, Camps &
Youth Programs

PROGRAM
TEAM

Senior
Leadership
Team
Leadership
Team

Counselling
& Program
Team

Coordinator, Camps
& Youth Programs

Medical
Director

Assistant Camp
Coordinator

Camp
Physician

Program

Counselling

Head

Head

Program

Counsellors

Staff &
Photographer
Program

LDP
Head

HEALTH TEAM
Nursing

Dietetic
Coordinator

Coordinator
Camp

Registered

Nurse

Dietitian

Resident &

Student

Dietetic

Fellows

Nurse
Night
Time
BG Monitor

Intern
Nutrition

LDP

Student

Instructors

CAMP ROLE DESCRIPTIONS

MANAGER, ONTARIO CAMPS & YOUTH PROGRAMS
Reports to Director, Camp & Youth Programs
Responsible for overall management and oversight of all camp operations in Ontario. This includes overall risk
management and program and community development.

CAMP COORDINATOR
Reports to Manager, Ontario Camp & Youth Programs
Responsible for the management and oversight of all camp operations while camp is in session, including staff
supervision, activity and program planning, support staff (kitchen and cleaning staff), counselling, camper
management and family relations.

ASSISTANT CAMP COORDINATOR

Reports to Camp Director
The Assistant Camp Coordinator is responsible for building and maintaining an inclusive, anti-oppressive, camperfocused culture. Specific duties include, but are not limited to, supporting and managing all counselling staff, and
ensuring programs are camper-focused and meeting our high risk management standards.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Reports to Camp Coordinator
Responsible for the coordination of all programs and activities at camp, including cabin rotations, skills, free time,
and camp wide programming. Responsible for supervising program staff, program volunteers, and area staff.

COUNSELLING HEAD
Reports to Camp Coordinator
Responsible for supporting the Counseling team and ensuring that campers are receiving individualized and
exceptional care. The Counseling Head also acts as the primary contact point for parents and guardians of campers
while camp is in session.

LEADERSHIP HEAD
Reports to Camp Coordinator
Responsible for leading and coordinating all aspects of the Challenger and Leaders in Training Program. They are
responsible for facilitating lessons, delivering engaging programs focused on skill development, and ensuring the
wellbeing and safety of the leadership campers.

COUNSELLOR
Report to Counseling Head
Responsible for the day-to-day care, hygiene, safety and management of campers.

CAMP MEDICAL COORDINATOR

Reports to Manager, Ontario Camp & Youth Programs
The Camp Medical Coordinator is a physician experienced in the care of children with type-1 diabetes, who is
available 24 hours daily for consultation on any medical problems that may arise during camp. The Camp Medical
Coordinator is ultimately responsible for all medical care at camp regardless of whether or not he/she is on site. The
Camp Medical Coordinator is responsible for the leadership of the entire Camp Medical Health Care Team and the
delegation of responsibilities to it.

CAMP PHYSICIAN
Reports to Camp Medical Coordinator

The Physician is experienced in the care of children with type 1 diabetes. They are available on site, 24 hours daily for
consultation on any medical problems that may arise during camp. The Physician reports directly to the Camp
Medical Coordinator who is ultimately responsible for all camp medical care.

NURSING COORDINATOR
Reports to Manager, Ontario Camp & Youth Programs

The Camp Nurse Coordinator is responsible for the administration/ supervision of all nursing functions as well as all
interviewing and selection of RNs, RPNs, Nursing Team Leaders, DNEs and Camp Aides.

CAMP NURSE (RN, RPN, TEAM LEADER, DNE)

Reports to Nursing Coordinator
The Camp Nurse is responsible for the diabetes care and safety of the campers to which he/she is assigned by
supervising and/or carrying out the diabetes care program delegated by the Nursing Coordinator, Medical
Coordinator or Onsite Physician.

DIETETIC COORDINATOR
Reports to Manager, Ontario Camps & Youth Programs
The Camp Dietetic Coordinator is responsible for coordinating/supervising or delegating all nutrition-related needs
to appropriate camp personnel as well as all interviewing and selection of all Registered Dietitians and Dietetic
Interns.

REGISTERED DIETITIAN
Reports to Dietetic Coordinator
The Camp Dietetic Coordinator is responsible for coordinating/supervising or delegating all nutrition-related needs
to appropriate camp personnel.

CAMP DIETETIC INTERN

Reports to Registered Dietitian
The Camp Dietetic Intern will provide all nutrition-related needs under supervision of the Registered Dietitian.

TYPICAL DAY AT CAMP

Time
7:00
7:15
7:50
8:00
8:45
9:10
10:15
10:40
11:45
12:15
13:15
13:45
15:20
16:45
17:30
18:45
20:15
20:50
21:45
23:00

Whats going on
Rise and Shine!
Testing/Insulin
Opening Ceremonies and Morning Awards
Breakfast
Cabin Cleanup
Cabin Group Rotation
Morning Snack
Electives
Testing/Insulin
Lunch
Siesta (a time to take a rest from the sun)
Interest Periods & Snack (14:45-15:10)
General Swim and Beach Activities
Testing/Insulin
Dinner
Evening Program
Snack/Testing/Insulin/Hush Flush
Cool Down Campfire
Lights Out (Campers)
Staff Lights Out

PROGRAM CALENDAR
Sunday
Welcome
Campers!

Monday

Tuesday

Epic
Races of
Epicness

So,You
Think You
Know Your
Cabin
Group?

Fire

weird

Tuesday

Twin din

Wednesday

Thursday

Golden
Oldies

VS

Capture
the pump

Talent
Show

Banquet

HEROS

Challenger

AND

Night

VILLAINS

Board
Games
Night!

(A mildly
haunted)

Casino
Night

Dress as
your
counselor

Ice

Saturday

Messy
Dinner

Animal
Farm
Hoedown

A
particularly

Friday

Bed-Head
Breakfast

Pirates
VS
Ninjas

Monday

Thursday

Get Yer
Shovel On!

One of us

Opening
campfire

Sunday

Wednesday

Closing
Campfire

Friday

Last day
of camp!
See
Yall
next
year!!

Saturday

SITE SPECIFIC INFORMATION

LAUNDRY
Laundry facilities at camp are only for the washing of soiled camper bedding and clothing. Personal use of laundry
facilities by staff is not permitted.

SIGNING IN AND OUT

When leaving camp grounds for any reason all staff must sign out on the clipboard, located at the Med Centre. Staff
are not permitted to leave site during the camp session without the permission of the Camp Coordinator. When
returning to site, all staff must sign back in. This information is necessary in emergency situations.

KITCHEN ACCESS
Staff may not enter the kitchen without the consent of the Kitchen Coordinator or their designate. Kitchen raids or the
stealing of food is also prohibited. Snacks are always available in the dining hall. Staff who feel their dietary
requirements are not being met are encouraged to speak with the Dietitian Coordinator or the Kitchen Coordinator.

BOUNDARIES
The forest, brush areas, ropes courses, old beach, and paths which are not main paths are off-limits, unless otherwise
authorized by the Camp Coordinator, Assistant Camp Coordinator, or Program Coordinator.
The waterfront area is off-limits except during general swim and organized program periods. Staff and campers are
not permitted in the water until the lifeguard team is setup, and consent is given by the Waterfront Head, or her
designate, to enter the swim area. Detailed waterfront rules and policies can be found in the program section of this
handbook

CABINS
Staff may not enter cabins other than their own without consent of a staff member living in that cabin. Staff may not
enter a camper cabin of the opposite sex without the permission of the Camp Coordinator, Assistant Camp
Coordinator, or Program Coordinator.

NIGHT DUTY
Program and counseling staff will be in charge of night duty throughout the course of the session. One counsellor
from each cabin group will be in charge of remaining in their cabin each evening in order to supervise while their cocounsellor is on time-off. They are also in charge of recording camper blood sugars and leaving a note for the Night
Monitor of additional campers who need to be tested. Each cabin will have a test kit and a low kit which will consist
of juice, sugar and cookies.
The counsellor who has the night off is expected to be back in the cabin by 11 PM.

VISITORS
The following procedure applies to persons visiting Camp Banting:
Visitors are only allowed onsite if the visit has been cleared with the Camp Coordinator or Assistant Camp
Coordinator.
Visitors must check in and out at the Health Centre, where the time of their visit will be logged.
Upon check in, visitors will be issued with an identification badge. This badge must be worn prominently for the
duration of the visit and returned to the health centre upon check out.
If staff see an unidentified person on site without a visitor badge, they will approach him/her with a friendly greeting.
If he/she wishes to stay on site, the Camp Coordinator or Assistant Camp Coordinator must approve the visit, and the
policies above apply.
Procedures regarding unwelcome persons or intruders to camp are detailed in the risk management section of this
handbook.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
The Camp Coordinator will go over the On-Site Emergency Procedure extensively during Staff Training.

SECTION 8: CAMPER MANAGEMENT

AWESOME BEHAVIOUR AT CAMP
The focus of our camp is on teaching independence and self-management of diabetes, facilitating friendships,
improving self-esteem of our campers, all in a safe, fun, educational setting. To ensure all campers get the most
out of camp, we expect everybody to:
Cooperate with staff and fellow campers
Treat everybody at camp with respect
Have a positive attitude
Try new things
Follow camp rules, including activity rules, cabin rules and all camp rules

UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOUR AT CAMP

In order to ensure all campers are safe at camp, the following behaviour is unacceptable. Campers who display
any of the behaviour(s) listed below will be asked to stop. If the behaviour continues and/or escalates after
being spoken to by their counsellor, the camper will be dealt with by the Camp Coordinator. The Camp
Coordinator may call home to alert parents/guardians of the behaviour and ultimately if a camper cannot
change their behaviour the camp Director may dismiss the camper. No refunds will be provided for campers who
are dismissed and guardians are responsible for picking up their camper if they are dismissed.
Examples of unacceptable behaviours are:
Name calling and put-downs
Bullying
Swearing or other inappropriate language
Play-fighting or wrestling
Causing physical or emotional harm to himself, herself or another person
Risking the safety of self, other campers and/or staff Not listening and cooperating with camp staff,
resulting in an unsafe camping program (i.e. camp counsellor spends time chasing the camper,
reprimanding the camper, taking the counsellors attention away from other campers)
Endangering self and/or another by misuse of medical supplies
Non-compliance to the prescribed medical or dietary regime
Consumption of alcohol, illegal drug use and/or smoking

RECOGNIZING CHILD ABUSE

The following definitions have been adapted from the World Health Organization. Please refer to www.who.int/en for
complete definitions.
Child abuse constitutes physical abuse, emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect, negligent treatment and
exploitation of children, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in
the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.

Physical Abuse of a child results in actual or potential physical harm from an interaction or lack of an interaction,
which is reasonably within the control of a parent or person in a position of responsibility, power or trust. There may
be one or repeated incidents.
Emotional Abuse includes the failure to provide a supportive environment for the child, and actions towards the child
that cause or have a high chance of causing harm to the child's health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral or social
development. These actions may include restriction of movement, patterns of belittling, and insulting, scape-goating,
scaring, threatening, discriminating, or other non-physical forms of hostile or rejecting treatment.
Neglect is the failure to provide for the development of the child in all areas relating to the child's well-being: health,
education, emotional development, nutrition, shelter and safe living conditions. This failure to provide causes, or has
a high probability of causing harm to the child health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral or social development. This
includes the failure to properly supervise and protect children from harm as much as is possible.
Sexual Abuse is the involvement of a child in sexual activity that he or she does not fully understand, is not able to
give informed consent to, or is against the laws or social taboos of society.
At camp, child abuse can manifest itself at camp in one of two ways:

Child is abused at camp by staff or another camper.

Child discloses abuse at camp about a situation that occurred to them or somebody they know at home, or
in their community

As an organization that employs staff (volunteer and paid) to work with children, the Canadian Diabetes Association
has a legal obligation to immediately report abuse, or suspicion or disclosure of abuse. All staff must be trained to
manage a disclosure and signs that may indicate a child has been abuse.

RELATIONSHIPS AT CAMP
STAFF-CAMPERS RELATIONSHIPS
Showing affection by hugging them is appropriate, but only in the presence of other staff, and only if this display of
affection is wanted by the camper. Never hug or hold a camper unless another staff member is present. Sexual touch
or sexually motivated activity is forbidden. If sexually motivated behaviour takes place between a camper and a staff
member, the staff member will be dismissed from his/her job immediately, and the police will be contacted, as
required. Please note that an LDP participant is still a camper.

CAMPER-CAMPER RELATIONSHIPS
By its nature, camp is a place which is conducive to forming strong relationships. Campers form strong friendships,
many of which will extend outside of camp to life at home. One of the key responsibilities of camp counsellors is to
facilitate friendships between our campers. While friendships among individuals are strongly encouraged, exclusive
relationships are to be strongly discouraged. Specifically, campers are not allowed to have romantic relationships at
camp. If campers do appear to be forming romantic relationships at camp, staff will remind them that camp is an
inclusive environment and that while at camp, romantic relationships are not allowed. If the relationship continues
after a warning, staff will alert the Camp Director.

STAFF-STAFF RELATIONSHIPS
Relationships between camp staff can be viewed as normal, and for the most part are to be encouraged at camp.
However, there are definite expectations for appropriate behaviour that must be abided by. Staff are encouraged to
socialize with one another, and the camp has designated areas that staff may congregate for this purpose (i.e. staff
lounge). Behaviour around campers should be such that at no time should campers be faced with the sexuality or
romantic aspect of staff members relationships. If two staff members are a couple, they are expected to avoid
physical contact and public displays of affection in front of campers. Behaviour around other staff should be such
that no one is made to feel uncomfortable. Any and all behaviour in a camp setting must allow for perceptions and
concerns of others.

APPROPRIATE TOUCH AND INAPPROPRIATE TOUCH

Appropriate touch is defined as physical contact for the sole purpose of nurturance of the person touched. It is given
with no expectations of any return. It is given to convey approval, reassurance or trust. It should always take into
account the comfort level of the person being touched. Appropriate touch is an important aspect of our culture and
value system. It is to be encouraged and promoted. Camp Banting is a place where both nurturing touch and
discussion about feelings are encouraged.
Examples of appropriate touch are:

Pats on the back, touch on the shoulder

Hugs of hello, goodbye, thank you, and support
Handshakes, high fives
Arms around shoulders

Remember that appropriate touch must always take into account the touched ones comfort level. Check it out with
the person being touched by asking: Do you want to hold my hand?, Do you want a hug?, Do you want me to sit
by you?
Inappropriate touch is any physical contact that violates the comfort level of the person being touched. It is touch that
is achieved through the use of power on the part of the toucher. It is touch that is given or forced on one for the
primary satisfaction of the toucher, not the person being touched. It is touch that may, even though not intended,
cause injury.
Examples of inappropriate touch include:
Sexual contact with a camper
Physical force - hitting, arm twisting, pinching, pulling, pushing; Purple Nurples, etc
Others: may include, wrestling, horseplay, wedgies, back or body massages

HOMESICKNESS
Homesickness is a natural part of going to summer camp. In a recent study, researchers found that greater than 95%
of all campers report having some homesick feelings on at least one day during their time at camp. Some 20% report
moderate or severe levels of homesickness and only 7% have severe depressive and anxious symptoms along with
their homesick feelings. Less than 1% of campers have to return home early because of severe homesickness.
Homesickness is also a healthy experience. It teaches campers to value their home life and helps them to experience
feelings of love and caring. Camp leaders need to understand that feelings of love are the underlying cause of
homesickness.
Here is what campers say they miss the most about home:
Family
Friends from home
Pets

Boyfriends or girlfriends
Junk food
TV, Video Games

Home cooking
Cell Phone

A FORMAL DEFINITION OF HOMESICKNESS

Homesickness is the distress or impairment caused by an actual or anticipated separation from home. Homesickness
is characterized by acute longing and preoccupying thoughts of home and attachment objects (parents, pets,
friends).

SYMPTOMS OF HOMESICKNESS
Symptoms include depression, anxiety, withdrawn behaviour, emotional, and physical complaints (e.g. stomach
aches, headaches and non-specific complaints like I dont feel good), and acting-out behaviours. Counsellors are
pretty good at detecting moderate and severe cases of homesickness, but milder cases often go undetected.

BEHAVIOURS
Homesickness is most commonly associated with withdrawn behaviours, anxious depressed behaviours and somatic
complaints.

PROGRESSION
Conventional wisdom held that homesickness usually went away after the first few days at camp. Its not that simple.
Most homesick children begin their stay with a high level of homesickness, and, without any intervention, it can get
worse and worse until just before they go home.

BEDWETTING
Bedwetting is a common occurrence at camp. As our Counsellors sleep in the same cabin as their campers, there is
always a friendly face available to help change bedding in the middle of the night or morning. In the morning, bedding
will be bundled up discreetly, and taken to our laundry area for washing. For children that are habitual bedwetters, we
recommend to their parents that they please send extra sheets and blankets for bedding, as they are much easier to
wash than a sleeping bag.

BULLYING
DEFINITION
Bullying occurs whenever one or more persons enjoy using power to repeatedly and consistently harm one or more
people.
Bullying is behaviour that

Use power to humiliate others to deprive them of possessions, self-esteem, security or sense of belonging
Pick on other people through name-calling, humiliation, threats, following them around, and physical abuse
Often target the same person repeatedly
Is reinforced from other people who choose not to interfere or who laugh at the victim along with the bully

At Camp Banting, we focus on the behaviour not the child and therefore avoid labeling children. For this document,
we refer to bullies as children who use bullying behaviour and victims as targets.

CRITERIA

Repeated and consistent negative actions against the child.

o Bullying happens regularly and for the same reasons (i.e. to demean and keep the target in a
vulnerable position and to depersonalize the child).
Imbalance of Power
o The child who uses bullying behaviour is stronger physically, verbally or socially, leaving the target
feeling overwhelmed and unable to deal with the abuse.
Contrasting feelings between the child who uses bullying behaviour and the target.
o The child who uses bullying behaviour may feel excited, powerful or amused after the bullying
incident, while the target feels afraid, embarrassed or hurt.

TYPES OF BULLYING
PHYSICAL BULLYING

Easiest type of peer abuse to identify

Includes kicking, pushing, shoving, hitting, spitting, locking in an enclosed space
As children reach their early teens (puberty), physical bullying can become more violent as well as more
sexually oriented.

VERBAL BULLYING

Takes the least amount of time and can be very subtle. It is a powerful and damaging form of emotional
abuse that can negatively affect a person throughout their lifetime.
Includes verbal threats, swearing, name-calling and cruel jokes about clothes, possessions, appearance,
disabilities, race, ethnic origin, religion, or idiosyncrasies.
Damaging due to the fact that children look to their peers for recognition and acknowledgement in their
search for self-identity and image.

RELATIONAL BULLYING

Thrives in a climate that separates and classifies children into cliques (cliques dictate that in belong; one
must act, think or behave in a certain way). Children are separated and excluded from group/peer activities
through gossiping and shunning
Typically this behaviour is exhibited more in girls than in boys and escalates during puberty

TARGETS
TYPICAL TARGETS

Anyone the child who uses bullying behaviour feels that they can have power over
Those who are seen as "different" and/or shy. Can often become shy.

PROVOCATIVE TARGETS

Will provoke other students into bullying. They are seen as sharing characteristics of children who use
bullying behaviour.
Provocative targets fall into three categories: Attention Seekers, Stimulation Seekers and Revenge Seekers

ATTENTION SEEKERS

Pick on children who they know will get the better of them
Have poor social skills, limited friendships and exhibit varying degrees of immaturity
Seek negative attention from children who bully, as it is their only means to get attention

STIMULATION SEEKERS

Very impulsive, difficulty sitting still, often diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder
Attempt to discharge energy by acting out

REVENGE SEEKERS

Seek revenge against those that have been targeting them

Will often act out against children who use bullying behaviour, bystanders, adults who have not assisted
them

INDICATORS
CHILDREN WHO BULLY CAN DISPLAY SOME OF THESE CHARACTERISTICS:

Typically feel an underlying sense of inadequacy and inferiority

Enjoy putting other people down
Show little empathy for those around them
Show disrespect for rules, authority and others
Enjoy fighting
Deliberately hurts pets or other animals
Distrust of other people

Use of anger to get what they want (blames others for problems)
Relationship difficulties (lots of friends when they are younger, however as they age, peers are no longer
interested in them and they seek out friendships with those much younger than themselves)
Home situation is considered unhealthy
Receives inappropriate discipline in the home (discipline is carried through with spanking, hitting,
demeaning type of behaviour - which the child then internalizes and takes to task that violence gets results)
Receives no discipline and/or consequences for inappropriate behaviour
Has a difficult time with school work and with concentrating

CHILDREN WHO ARE TARGETS OFTEN DISPLAY SOME OF THESE CHARACTERISTICS:

Shows signs of depression, anxiety, social phobias, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, poor body
image, shows fear easily
Often socially withdrawn (avoids peers and social groups)
Exhibits unexplainable illnesses (increase in headaches, stomach aches)
May have ripped or torn clothing (bruises may accompany)
Reluctant to talk about their day, may appear moody
Often have overprotective parents (which can lead the child into believing that they are not seen as worthy of
looking after themselves)

LONG TERM EFFECTS OF CHILD WHO USES BULLYING BEHAVIOUR AND THEIR TARGETS
SOME AFFECTS THAT CHILD WHO USES BULLYING BEHAVIOUR MAY FACE:

May have lower academic performance and higher dropout rates

More likely to be convicted of a crime
Often use manipulation, deception and lying behaviours to get needs met
Often suffer from turmoil, depression, inadequacy and emptiness
May have interpersonal issues such as seeing hostile intent where there is none
May have anger management issues. Impulsive and quick to lash out physically as has few internal selfregulating techniques
Usually have a higher risk of abusing their own children and families
May have higher abuse rate of alcohol and/or drugs
Higher rate of failed marriage

SOME AFFECTS THAT TARGETS MAY FACE:

May suffer from depression, social phobias, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trust issues
Usually have low self-esteem and/or self-worth/body image
May have a higher rate of addictions
May have suicidal ideation
May suffer from insomnia
May suffer from tics and /or other nervous habits
May suffer from gastrointestinal and dermatological disorders

Often have low academic performance and education (will work below their skill level)
May suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (has nightmares, fears of going by location where abuse took
place)
May show anger issues
May put themselves at further risk by joining groups that utilize risky behaviours in order to feel like they
belong somewhere

EFFECTIVE WAYS TO ASSIST AND SUPPORT CHILDREN

FOR CHILD WHO USES BULLYING BEHAVIOUR, ADULTS SHOULD:

Be empathic. In order to foster empathy in a child, it is important to talk openly about feelings, validate,
encourage and show that you have confidence in their ability to change their behaviour
Focus on similarities between children as child who uses bullying behaviour do not feel like other children
Role model kindness to animals
Refuse to take part in humour or jokes that are demeaning or cruel
Use respectful, non-physical guidance techniques
Teach children to be responsible such as creating tasks or jobs that will raise their self-esteem
Be honest and consistent

FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE TYPICAL TARGETS, ADULTS SHOULD:

Encourage openness and honesty (listen carefully and do not judge)

Be calm, support and validate the child's feelings (let them express themselves in their own way)
Problem solve together
Ask questions (i.e. how often incidents took place, who was involved etc.)
Encourage child to take reasonable risks
Create jobs or tasks that will raise their self-esteem
Give examples (if you have any) of times when you were younger when you had difficulties with your peer's
etc.
Teach child to use "I" statements (i.e. I don't like you calling me fat and I want you to stop)
Teach child to utilize assertive behaviour (i.e. posture: practice standing up straight and tall with shoulders
squared, walking: walk tall with easy stride, eye contact: hold gaze at eye level - be cautious to explain the
difference between appropriate and confrontational eye contact)
Teach a positive attitude (let them know what you think and feel about them)
Encourage to ask for adult assistance if physically threatened
Tell child that if another child demands money, give it to them and then report it
Teach children to "act" unfazed when confronted as child who uses bullying behaviour like to get a reaction
- do not take the bait - ignore or agree and then walk away
Encourage target to keep safe by changing routes and hangouts if needed

FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE PROVOCATIVE TARGETS, ADULTS SHOULD:

ATTENTION SEEKERS

Help child discover and build upon their strengths and interests to increase self-image and so they are no
longer dependent upon others to "see" them.

STIMULATION SEEKERS

Teach children to foresee likely consequences of their behaviour and to make intelligent choices prior to
taking action

REVENGE SEEKER

Discuss feelings openly and seriously. Contact mental health worker if child talks about hurting others.

INFORMATION ON BYSTANDERS

Often overlooked victim

Feel helpless, guilty for not intervening and also victimized

WITNESSING BULLYING CAN LEAD TO DESENSITIZATION AND A SENSE OF POWERLESSNESS MAKING IT LESS LIKELY
THAT THEY WILL INTERVENE IN THE FUTURE AND AT RISK FOR PROMOTING BULLYING BEHAVIOUR.