How to be a great Role Model

Children and teens do most of their learning by watching important people in their lives. So says an article by Ethan Schafer, as printed in a recent issue of Camping Magazine. Believe it or not, you will become one of the lenses through which your bunkies view the world.

You will give campers a “mental map” for their lives in the ways that you

respond socially and emotionally
resolve conflicts, both big and small, and
communicate with those around you.

Ashley, the fun-loving counselor having fun on the giant swing!

Here are some ways to be great Nakanawa role models:

Set a great example in all that you do and say. Show up on time to flag raising, have positive words to say to all, stick to the camp uniform, and encourage your bunkies to do the same. Notice when they are kind, appropriate, helpful, or fun. Another good example of this is keeping your cabin area clean and tidy. We require it of our campers, which means you need to show them that you believe in it, too.
Have a positive, fun attitude. Like Ashley up there hamming it up on the giant swing, we counselors have to some times show campers how to have fun. We need to show a positive attitude and energy, even though we may not actually feel like it every time. If we are having fun, the kids will have fun, too. And then if we needed a lift, the contagion will go the other way and we’ll be having genuine fun ourselves. Focus on what you do like, and catch them getting things right.
Earn their respect. Your bunkies have each other to be their friends, but you are the only one(s) who can be their counselor(s). They count on you to challenge them to be their best selves, set appropriate limits, help them plan ahead, and keep order. Have fun with them, but also remember that if you ever have to choose between earning their friendship and earning their respect, your best choice is to go for their respect.

Think about a person who has been an important role model in your life. Think of the qualities that they have given to you. let’s make it a point to become an important role model to a special camper this summer. I can’t think of a better goal than that, can you?

Camp’s almost here! Let’s get excited!