Summer Camp Code of Conduct

Today many camps have codes of conducts. They are designed to encourage campers to respect each other and promote good sportsmanship. They set forth unacceptable behavior so campers and parents know exactly what behavior will not be tolerated.

Reasons

There are many reasons why camps have codes of conduct. Camps maintain liability insurance and are responsible for the well-being of their campers. However, camps need children and parents to abide by rules to minimize danger and facilitate an enjoyable environment.

Camper Behavior

There are many specific behaviors forbidden by camp codes of conduct. They prohibit campers from engaging in illegal behavior, including using drugs, stealing or smoking while underage. Additionally, camps usually require appropriate dress, including adequate bathing suit coverage, and prohibit sexual promiscuity. Camp codes of conduct often forbid teasing, bullying and infringing on the privacy of other campers.

Parent Behavior

Parents are advised not to send campers if they have contagious diseases that could affect the health of other campers. Codes of conduct inform parents that sick children can be sent home.

Other Issues

Often camps require parents and children to sign the camp code of conduct acknowledging that they will abide by it. Sometimes a code of conduct will indicate that campers who violate it can be sent home without a tuition refund.

References

• Escape Exc: Borrowdale Summer camp- Students' Code of Conduct
• YMCA Camp Echo: Camp Echo Code of Conduct
• Camp Beaumont: Code of Conduct