An Epidemic is Arriving at Summer Camp

With school just about over, where do the bullies go? They do not disappear, they're off to summer camp.

(PRWEB) June 8, 2005 -- With school just about over, where do the bullies go? They do not disappear, they're off to summer camp. To think these bullies would be different over the summer is wishful thinking.

Everyday 160,000 students do not go to school because they fear an attack or are intimidated by other students. These situations are a parents' nightmare. Now many parents believe with school over their child will be safe. What needs to be addressed is why are these children victims in the first place. Many times victims are picked on due to their lack of self-esteem, how they carry themselves, lack of friends, how they dress, lack of physical strength, lack of sporting abilities, they're very smart and this list keeps going on and on.

In school it is the playground, lunchroom, hallway, school bus, traveling to and from school, and in cyberspace that children are being bullied. These are replaced by the campgrounds, food hall, cabins, and during activities at camp. Teachers are replaced by college and high school students where many are an authority figure for the first time. Parents and camp directors must be proactive and address the following:

- What do counselors need to look for?
- What should camps be teaching their employees?
- Signs the camper is being bullied?
Actions to implement for camps to be a safe place
- What makes a camper a victim?

There are solutions to these situations! Derek is a national speaker on bullying and parenting. He has interactive workshops for educators and parents. Contact Derek for all interviews.

# # #