The Storming Phase – The Adjustment & Testing Stage

Understanding the Storming Phase

The Storming Phase is the first major stage of group development. It is the period of adjustment and testing when campers find their place within the group. While this phase is natural, it can be challenging as children begin to explore boundaries, test authority, and establish social dynamics.

💡 What Happens During This Phase?
🌀 Children struggle to find their place in the group.
🌀 Some campers may challenge rules and authority to see what they can get away with.
🌀 Others may withdraw, hesitate to participate, or feel unsure about where they fit in.
🌀 Conflicts and misunderstandings arise as personalities clash.

Although this phase may feel frustrating, it is actually a sign that the group is beginning to form! It is a temporary phase that sets the foundation for future growth.

🎯 Leader’s Role in the Storming Phase

✔️ Stay Calm & Consistent

• Do not take resistance personally! Children are testing structure, not you as a person.
• Keep a steady and patient attitude—your calm presence will help settle the group.

✔️ Set Clear Expectations Early

• Establish firm but fair boundaries from the start—children feel safer when they know the rules.
• Reinforce rules through positive communication, not punishment.

✔️ Encourage Engagement Through Icebreakers

• Use fun and interactive activities to help children bond.
• Give opportunities for all to speak and participate, including the quieter ones.

✔️ Be Patient – This Phase Will Pass!

• Some kids adapt quickly, while others take longer to settle.
• Stay consistent in your approach, and the group will begin to adjust.

Practical Tips for Managing the Storming Phase

✅ Use Icebreakers & Team Games – Get kids talking, laughing, and interacting.
✅ Recognize & Redirect Negative Behaviors – Instead of focusing on “bad behavior,” help children channel their energy into something positive.
✅ Encourage Empathy & Listening – Teach kids to listen and respect each other’s differences.
✅ Assign Roles & Responsibilities – Give children small leadership roles to make them feel valued.

🌟 Final Thought: Weathering the Storm

The Storming Phase is not a failure, but a necessary step toward unity. As a leader, your calm presence, clear expectations, and encouragement will help children transition into the next phase of teamwork and trust. Stay the course—better days are ahead!

The Norming Phase – Building Trust & Teamwork

Understanding the Norming Phase

After the Storming Phase, the group begins to settle into a rhythm. This is the Norming Phase, where children start to accept each other, and trust begins to grow.

🌱 What Happens During This Phase?
✔️ Group roles become more defined, and campers cooperate more easily.
✔️ Conflicts from the Storming Phase begin to resolve.
✔️ Campers open up more about their thoughts, struggles, and emotions.
✔️ The group feels more like a team rather than a group of individuals.

This is a breakthrough phase where children begin to feel a sense of belonging. However, some may still need extra encouragement to fully engage.

🎯 Leader’s Role in the Norming Phase

✔️ Reinforce Unity & Teamwork

• Highlight and celebrate acts of kindness & teamwork.
• Show appreciation when campers help each other.

✔️ Encourage Deeper Connection

• Ask open-ended questions that encourage sharing and self-reflection.
• Allow children to talk about their experiences, fears, and victories.

✔️ Model Adaptability & Inclusiveness

• Ensure every child feels valued—check in with those who are still hesitant to connect.
• Continue to use team-building activities that strengthen relationships.

Practical Tips for the Norming Phase

✅ Praise Positive Interactions – Reinforce the behaviors you want to see more of.
✅ Encourage Problem-Solving – Instead of solving disputes for them, guide campers to work through challenges together.
✅ Use Small Group Discussions – Allow children to express their thoughts in a safe space.

🌟 Final Thought: Strengthening the Bonds

The Norming Phase is a beautiful shift where campers move from uncertainty to connection. Keep fostering trust, encouragement, and teamwork, and the group will soon enter its most transformational stage—Forming!

The Forming Phase – Thriving & Growth

Understanding the Forming Phase

The Forming Phase is the final stage of group development, where the group functions as a team.

🌟 What Happens During This Phase?
✔️ Children trust each other and work together smoothly.
✔️ Campers support one another and develop deeper friendships.
✔️ Many experience spiritual breakthroughs and personal growth.
✔️ The group now has a shared purpose & sense of belonging.

This phase feels the most rewarding for leaders and campers alike! Growth happens naturally, and children begin to internalize the lessons of the camp experience.

🎯 Leader’s Role in the Forming Phase

✔️ Encourage Leadership

• Allow children to take initiative and help each other.
• Recognize those who step up as leaders and encourage them.

✔️ Facilitate Deep Discussions

• Help kids process their experiences, emotions, and spiritual growth.
• Encourage reflection on what they have learned and how they will apply it.

✔️ Celebrate Milestones & Testimonies

• Acknowledge progress and affirm children’s growth.
• Create opportunities for campers to share their testimonies.

✔️ Prepare for Transition Beyond Camp

• Guide children in how to take what they’ve learned home.
• Discuss ways to continue growing in their faith after camp.

Practical Tips for the Forming Phase

✅ Empower Campers – Let them take the lead in activities and problem-solving.
✅ Affirm Growth – Celebrate each child's unique journey and progress.
✅ Encourage Application – Challenge campers to live out what they’ve learned beyond camp.

🌟 Final Thought: Beyond the Campfire

The Forming Phase is where deep transformation happens. As leaders, we have the privilege of seeing campers grow, connect, and step into their God-given identity. While camp may only last a few days, the lessons learned and experiences shared will impact them for years to come!

Final Reflection on the Phases

Each group moves through these phases at its own pace—some may move quickly, while others may regress at times. That’s okay! Your patience, adaptability, and leadership will help guide them toward growth.

💡 Recognizing where your group is allows you to lead with wisdom, ensuring that every child leaves camp feeling valued, empowered, and spiritually enriched.

🌱 Storming → Norming → Forming 🌟
Each phase plays a key role in shaping a life-changing camp experience!