LEADERS CAN GET PARENTAL SUPPORT
At some point during the program year, virtually every Camp Fire leader encounters an apparent lack of interest on the part of parents. The strongest Camp Fire clubs have the support and help of many parents. What can you, as a leader, do to instill or encourage this willingness to help?
Basically, there are four techniques that can be employed to bring parents together in support of club activities.
While these principles may seem elementary, they actually can be very difficult to put into practice effectively. Let's examine them a little closer.
Getting to Know Each Other
It's important not only to become acquainted with your members' parents
yourself, but also to help them become acquainted with each other. Many parents
who would like to get involved do not do so because, truthfully, it's hard
to call a stranger and volunteer. You can make this a more comfortable experience
for parents if you make sure that the ice is broken.
Keep Them Informed
While many leaders have good intentions about keeping parents informed,
often they dwindle from weekly or monthly communications to the occasional
permission slip that needs signing. If you keep parents informed about activities
in the club, they are much more likely to be visibly supportive. Regular
contact is not only essential for parents' peace of mind, it can also make
your job much much easier.
Have Fun!
Try to help parents have fun in Camp Fire. Invite family members to share
in a broad range of Camp Fire activities--not just when you need another
driver!
Also, keep in mind that family emphasis rather than parent-child emphasis is a good idea. Try to implement some "kids and kin" activities for a new flavor. The activity can also be more comfortable for the Camp Fire member who may be in a non-traditional family group.
Ask for Help
Finally, ask for help. This sounds so easy but can be so hard! Yet most
parents really are willing to help. After all, few things are more interesting
or important than their children! It's a nice feeling for parents to realize
that another adult, such as a Camp Fire leader, also appreciates their child.
Remember, you are leading a Camp Fire group because you know that the members involved will benefit from the experience. This experience can be more rewarding for the child with the added advantage of many adult role models. It's good for children to see adults working together to achieve a common goal--and not all kids get to see that in their daily lives.
Which brings us to one final point. Be aware that the child whose parents will not help is often the child who needs Camp Fire and its sense of belonging the very most. Don't make the child feel guilty if a parent is unwilling or unable to help. And don't constantly single out that child for special favors. Rather, a little extra attention sometimes might not be a bad idea.
Most of all, in addition to realizing that your club members and their parents are extra-special people, don't forget to give yourself credit, too! Without you, parents might never have the chance to share Camp Fire with their children.
Reprint from: Camp Fire Hotline
Mt. Hood Council of Camp Fire Boys & Girls