No Bullying in Coleman Country

Coleman Country is known for teaching children to dig up the roots of uncaring behaviors and plant the seeds of acceptance. 

Our camp community champions zero tolerance for ridiculing. Here, children learn first the awareness, then the language, and finally the strategies to resolve conflicts, prevent bullying, and treat others with respect. We also coach children in victim-proofing skills, and we teach campers to be “Upstanders” instead of bystanders.

The song, “Don’t Laugh at Me” is the anthem for our initiative. This song helps us establish a Coleman Country culture in which physical or relational aggression is not tolerated. Peter Yarrow, of Peter, Paul, and Mary, created the “Don’t Laugh at Me” program with input from the Colemans as well as from many child development experts. Peter has become a good friend of the immediate and extended Coleman families, and has visited Coleman Country to share his passion and his voice with us.

Our “Tease-free Zone” is incorporated into the entire landscape of Coleman Country. Throughout camp, there are signs reminding campers of important values. Campers also participate in creating a “Code of Living” for their group that promotes tolerance and kindness toward all members. Most importantly, our staff models and teaches respect each day of the summer.