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Camp Celebration: Incarcerated Mothers and Their Children Camping Together; Camp Handbook

NCJ Number
139368
Editor(s)
S Little, R Lovell
Date Published
1990
Length
65 pages
Annotation
This handbook describes the program, guidelines and procedures, program activities, and support service procedures and responsibilities for the mother-children camping program on the grounds of Illinois' Dwight Correctional Center for women.
Abstract
The program, which is intended to facilitate the bonding of female inmates with their children, provides for 12 women to camp with their children each weekend of the summer. Each family is provided with the necessary camping equipment, and each campsite has a 5-person tent, a picnic table, and a trash can. The program provides for the mothers and their children (16 years old and under) to participate in various activities together, including games, pony rides, interaction with various farm animals, camp fire singing, a talent show and skits performed by the families, and a Sunday breakfast prepared by each mother at the campsite. Other meals are eaten in the outdoor pavilion and are provided by the prison kitchen staff. The handbook's program description includes a statement of program philosophy and objectives, a sample schedule of weekend activities, a profile of facilities and equipment, menus, program evaluation structure, and organizational charts. Camp guidelines and procedures encompass job descriptions for camp program staff, staff recruitment and selection procedures, procedures for mothers, and procedures for children. Profiles of program activities address active games, new games, water activities, arts and crafts, nature/animal activities, singing games, and skits and stories. A description of support service procedures and responsibilities discusses administration, clinical services, security, food, health care, and facilities. Appended forms and practical program information