What Lies Beneath: Understanding the Basic Needs of Campers

It is widely recognized that there is no such thing as a “bad child,” only challenging behaviors that often signal deeper needs, struggles, or unspoken emotions. This workshop will invite participants to look beyond the surface of acting out or deviant behavior, exploring the underlying “why” behind these responses.

Grounded in a Strengths-Based Perspective, this interactive session will provide practical tools and strategies to help camping professionals identify, manage, and respond to challenging behaviors with empathy and effectiveness. Through hands-on activities and discussion, participants will leave better equipped to support campers in a way that fosters resilience, belonging, and positive growth.