SOCIAL POLICIES
The following are designed to provide a clear framework to get us started, and we will continue to offer support and guidance in age appropriate ways throughout our days.
A Few Basic Rules
(PLEASE READ THESE THOROUGHLY, OUT LOUD, AS A FAMILY):
- Adherence to these written behavioral guidelines, as well as verbal direction from our staff, is expected at all times
- Children must return to the group, to their parents, or to a teacher when called.
- When children are with their parents on site, such as during drop-off and pick-up times, they are to be under the direct supervision of their parents, and these ‘basic rules’ continue to apply.
- Children may not go farther than where they can see a staff member or parent, unless directed to do so.
- Children are to wear/bring play-worthy clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions each day (this may include a sunhat, long sleeve shirt, rain gear, etc. and should exclude things you wouldn't want to have returned with mud and/or tree sap on them).
- Children must have appropriate footwear for running around outside, climbing rocks and trees, etc (closed-toed are best, definitely no flip-flops!).
- Families are to pack healthy, energizing foods for lunch and snacks, and refrain from sending sugar, sweets, and juices. Children are not to share food with other kids at camp (due to potential allergies)
- Each child will need to bring a small, snug fitting backpack that they can carry on their own with a 8-12oz water bottle, small snack and additional clothing as needed.
- Children may not enter any bodies of water without direct permission and close supervision by a staff member.
- All Vital Wild programs are screen and electronics free. Please leave all electronic devices at home and turn off your cell phones while in attendance.
- Please also leave all children's toys in the car or at home– this is to facilitate focused interaction with available natural materials and carefully selected items we may provide, and to allow the most immersive natural experience possible for all the children.
- All Vital Wild programs are a safe space. Everyone involved is expected to treat each other with kindness and respect and any issues that arise between individuals are to be worked through verbally, with support if necessary.
- No weapons are allowed, unless the item is a tool (such as a pocket knife, or bow & arrows) that has been approved by a Vital Wild staff member and is an appropriate tool to have for the current class activities.
- No pretend gun play is permitted, and any seemingly violent play will be redirected.
- Parents, also, are expected to adhere to and model Vital Wild's guidelines for the children at all times while on site.