How is Bullying Handled at Wilderwood Camps?

At Wilderwood Camps, we are committed to ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for every camper. Bullying has no place here, and we address any concerns brought to our attention. At the same time, we believe it’s essential to take the time to properly understand and label each action and situation so that it can be addressed appropriately and respectfully.

Not all situations that children might perceive as bullying truly fall under that definition. Roughhousing, misunderstandings, or unwanted attention are not bullying but are addressed differently to ensure everyone feels comfortable and valued.

1. What is Bullying?

Bullying involves intentional, repeated behavior meant to harm, intimidate, or exclude someone. It can include:

• Physical harm

• Verbal insults or teasing

• Social exclusion or manipulation

However, behaviors like roughhousing, enthusiastic play, or misunderstandings in games may feel uncomfortable but are not necessarily bullying.

2. Addressing All Concerns with Care

At Wilderwood, every concern—whether it’s bullying or not—is addressed promptly. Our process ensures we handle each situation thoughtfully and appropriately:

1. Listening to Concerns: We provide campers with a safe space to share their feelings and experiences.

2. Observing and Investigating: Staff carefully observe interactions to fully understand the context and intent behind actions.

3. Labeling Correctly: By taking the time to assess each situation, we can determine if it involves bullying, roughhousing, or misunderstandings, and respond accordingly.

This process ensures that every action is handled with fairness and respect, fostering an environment of trust and understanding.

3. What is Not Bullying?

• Roughhousing:
  Roughhousing is a natural part of childhood play for many campers. While it can sometimes lead to accidental discomfort or misunderstandings, it is not bullying unless there is intent to harm.

  • How We Address It: Roughhousing is addressed by redirecting campers to ensure play remains safe and inclusive. If a camper expresses discomfort, we teach them how to set boundaries respectfully, and we remind others to honor those boundaries.

• Unwanted Attention:
  Sometimes, campers may feel overwhelmed by another camper’s persistent attempts to engage with them. This is often a result of misunderstanding social cues rather than an intent to harm.

  • How We Address It: We guide campers to communicate their feelings politely and help redirect behavior so all campers feel comfortable.

• Playful Friendships:
  A camper might feel singled out in games like tag, where another camper seems to focus solely on them. In many cases, this is a sign of friendship or enthusiasm, not bullying.

  • How We Address It: We explain the context to the camper, helping them understand the behavior as friendly rather than harmful.

4. How Bullying is Handled

When a situation is identified as bullying—intentional, repeated behavior meant to harm—we act quickly to address it. Steps include:

• Separating the individuals involved to ensure immediate safety.

• Investigating thoroughly to understand the full context.

• Working with both parties to address the behavior and its impact.

• Communicating with parents to collaborate on next steps.

Consequences for bullying are designed to ensure accountability and to prevent future issues, which may include mediation or, in severe cases, removal from camp.

5. Promoting Positive Interactions and Clear Communication

To prevent misunderstandings and foster a positive environment, we emphasize the importance of:

• Clear Boundaries: Teaching campers to express their preferences respectfully and encouraging others to listen.

• Empathy: Helping campers understand different perspectives and social cues.

• Respectful Play: Redirecting energy into safe, inclusive activities when roughhousing or enthusiasm becomes overwhelming.

6. Our Commitment to Every Camper

At Wilderwood Camps, we ensure that all situations are addressed appropriately—whether it’s roughhousing, unwanted attention, misunderstandings, or bullying. By taking the time to properly understand and label each situation, we create a respectful and supportive environment for every camper.

If you have any questions about our approach or concerns about your child’s experience, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Let’s get outside, stay outside, and play outside—while building a culture of kindness, respect, and understanding!