To Prank or Not to Prank???

Unfortunately, some people think that pranks are as much a part of camp as insects.There are websites that suggest pranks for campers to pull, and there is even a popular TV shows that glorifies pranks!Unfortunately, even so-called “friendly pranks” often lead to bullying and are misunderstood by the victim.

Pranks usually involve breaking some type of camp rule and create risk, both physical and emotional, for campers.Message boards on the Internet are filled with notes from people who vividly recall the embarrassment they felt after being victimized by pranksters.I have spoken with numerous people who, years later, still talk about the humiliation they experienced as a result of a camp prank.Many of these persons never returned to camp.

If this concerns you, ask the camp director what the camp’s policy is on pranks. Hopefully, there is a no-tolerance policy. Camp should be an uplifting and empowering experience, not a degrading one.Also, use this as a growth and learning opportunity for your camper.Even a normally well-behaved youngster can be persuaded to participate in a prank by peer pressure.

You can prepare for the possibility of being the victim of a prank – or being caught up in the moment and pulling a prank on someone – by role-playing different scenarios.Encourage discussion on the emotions experienced by all those involved.Make sure you stress the importance of treating others with understanding, respect, compassion, and acceptance at all times.

Wishing you years of happy camping!

Liz Garland has served as the National Director for the Zink the Zebra Foundation, Inc since 2001. Before coming to Zink she worked for three different Girl Scout councils in a variety of positions including directing camp for many years.

Zink is a zebra with spots created by an 11-year-old girl just before she died of bone cancer.Her father started the foundation to promote the understanding and acceptance of human differences through specially created character education programs that help children and adults realize the necessity to respect and show compassion toward others. For more information visit www.zinkthezebra.org.

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