Discipline Policy

Willowbrook’s priority is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for every child. Campers are always expected to exhibit appropriate behavior. We want to encourage respect for people and property. To help achieve this goal, a discipline policy has been established to ensure the health, safety and well being of all Willowbrook participants. Discerning appropriate and inappropriate behavior is a continual learning process, and children sometimes don’t understand the difference. Camp Staff will reinforce appropriate behavior primarily through firm statements and redirection of activity. Discipline will be handled with kindness and consistency. We will use a four-stage system of progressive consequences to help a camper modify inappropriate behavior, solve and correct a negative situation, and become a positive part of the Willowbrook community. Methods employed will be age and developmentally appropriate. Willowbrook does not practice corporal punishment, verbal abuse, or shaming as means of behavior control or correction.

In order to help us accomplish discipline goals, we will use the following steps: • OBSERVE and LISTEN in order to prevent conflict • RE-DIRECT the child to another activity • TALK to the child individually • SEPARATE the child from his/her group. A time out/away of reasonable duration (5 to 10 minutes) is acceptable. • DISCUSS the situation with the child • TELL A DIRECTOR if these measures are not effective.

We follow a Progressive Consequences Disciplinary Procedure. Up to 7 stages of consequences are possible. You may view our full Discipline Policy at the Registration desk.