Hi folks,

I think that there may be a confusion in what we have been talking about.

There is something in the idea of getting kids away from toxic parents and toxic environments, and the 'brat camps' do that.

However, I am not sure that the hard discipline is the key to bringing the kids back onside. I think that authentic/bonding relationships with adults is the key.

Steiner schools are the antithesis of 'brat camps' and yet they do just the same thing, they bring disturbed kids back onside. The Steiner teachers were magic with the kids, and some even keep in touch throughout their adult lives.

I have worked (in teaching) with disturbed kids myself, some very disturbed indeed, and I never even raised my voice once. My philosophy was that if you have to shout, you have lost the game.

My father (I always get round to him) was an army sergeant, highly decorated. He was the most chaotic, undisciplined, messed up individual I have known. I wish he had been to a Steiner school instead of an army camp!

Cheers, M