Hi Mick,
Depending on the number of staff, you could begin the session with an initiative activity called "Helium Hoops". You will need 1 hula hoop (for every 10-12 participants). Have the group stand in a circle with arms extended into the center of the circle fists closed with palms facing down. Each person should then extend their index fingers and move in shoulder-to-shoulder with each other. place the hula hoop on their fingers and instruct the group to lower the hula hoop to the floor. Rules: 1. Fingers must always stay in contact with the hoop. 2. The hoop may not be dropped 3.Fingers must remain extended (palm facing down with closed fist) and level (ie they can't hook the hoop). Everyone must stay involved with both fingers. Best to demonstrate with 1 other person to make it look easy.
OK, so once they FINALLY succeed, the real debrief can focus on the idea of how a seemingly insignificant influence can have a huge effect on the outcome. Then draw examples from the group of how this same concept of "every little bit counts" applies to camp. "If you are late to the pool...", "When you discipline a child..." etc.
Also, you can ask the staff to define a good leader and a bad leader (separately)--write results on a flipchart (could be done as a small group activity where a person is drawn to look like a great counselor or a bad counselor). Then ask the staff to identify examples of great leaders in their life (must be someone with direct impact on the staff...not a celebrity). What made that person important? How did that person make you feel. etc. Same question can be asked regarding people who they lost respect for because of an action. Lesson...actions define our reality (words mean nothing unless supported by action). Finally, set clear guidlines about what is expected and acceptable. Follow-up with struggling staff AND successful staff, but always hold the line.
Hope this helps,
Howard
