Staff Handbook 2022
Introduction It is a pleasure to welcome you to the staff at Summer at Far Brook! It is exciting to have a group of enthusiastic educators who are dedicated to providing a memorable, safe, and enriching experience for our campers. The key to our success, however, is working effectively together as a team, and this handbook will guide us to that goal. This handbook is intended to serve as a reference for current policies and procedures of Summer at Far Brook. Adherence to these policies and procedures is mandatory and disciplinary action will be taken for major violations. Please be sure to read this handbook carefully so that you can feel prepared for the summer. We also encourage you to ask questions regarding anything that you read that you need clarified. We look forward to a wonderful summer!
Melissa Williams Director, Summer at Far Brook
Section One: General Information Summer at Far Brook offers participants high quality, meaningful experiences that are consistent with Far Brook School’s values, extending the school’s mission beyond the academic year. These values inspire participants to fuel their passions and awaken their curiosity by creating a supportive and caring camp community that cherishes love of learning, movement, creativity, diversity, and individuality.
Summer Calendar It is important to know and keep track of the following dates and corresponding camp weeks. This will help you direct parents and children to the right places at the right times. June 13-16 Week 0 June 20-24 Week 1 June 27-July 1 Week 2 July 5-8 Week 3 (closed on July 4) July 11-15 Week 4 July 18-22 Week 5 July 25-29 Week 6 August 1-August 5 Week 7 August 8-12 Week8
Camp Administration Summer at Far Brook is led by the Director of Auxiliary Programs/Camp Director (Melissa Williams) and Assistant Camp Director (Maureen Davenport).
Important Phone Numbers & Locations Main Camp Office: 973-379-3442 or summer@farbrook.org Nurse: 973-379-3442 or summernurse@farbrook.org
Goals and Outcomes 1. To provide opportunities that stimulate the development of each child's self-esteem.
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Child will participate in getting-to-know-you games at the start of each week. Staff will provide the children with positive comments and encouragement throughout the day.
2. To provide opportunities for skill development.
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Children have the choice of many programs that range in topic and are skill specific. Experienced, trained staff lead each program and provide individualized skill instruction. Children will learn at least one new skill while at camp.
3. To allow children to develop lifetime interests.
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Each child can choose a program that matches their passion or try something new in order to gain a new experience. Children will leave camp with new skills and a desire to continue their learning.
4. To nurture friendships with fellow children and staff. • Each child will be with a group of similar-age children and be part of the community making decisions. • Children will have assigned counselors/teachers that remain with them for the duration of the program with whom they will develop a close bond. • Children will eat lunch together in a relaxed outdoor/indoor environment.
Camper Expectations In order for us to encourage a supportive and caring camp community we must set standards and expectations for our campers. In doing so we … ● Establish safety for all ● Provide organization within the group ● Set a standard for expectations and responsibilities within the group ● Provide a structured environment in which the dreams and goals of campers can be
realized ● Allow campers to feel safe enough to take the necessary risks to learn, to help and to
respect others and to care for their environment ● Develop behaviors that are most conductive to facilitating learning, forming friendships and
promoting fun in the camp environment.
Section Two: Staff Guidelines Summer at Far Brook is committed to the highest standards of decorum throughout the summer. All staff members are held to the maximum level of professionalism, which in turn creates a happy, safe, exciting, and dynamic place for our campers. With this in mind, the following guidelines are expected to be followed.
Dress Code We ask that ALL Summer at Far Brook Staff wear a staff shirt daily. Shorts should be an appropriate length and must be at least fingertip length with arms down. Appropriate swimwear should be worn on Inflatable Fridays. Additionally, appropriate footwear should be determined based on your program type. Sneakers are recommended and preferred,
Cell Phones Summer at Far Brook requires that cell phones be powered off during the working day. Cell phones should not be used for calls, texts, emails, internet access, music, social media, photography, or even as a clock. Not only can placing and receiving personal calls detract from supervisory responsibilities, but it also sends a negative message to parents if staff members are talking on cell phones. Certain staff members may be authorized to use cell phones for specific job-related functions as designated by the Director. Unauthorized use of cell phones will not be tolerated. The first violation will result in a verbal warning. The second violation will result in a written warning that will be placed in the staff member's personnel file and be factored into future employment decisions. Three or more violations may result in termination of employment.
Parking Parking for staff is provided on Tall Pine Lane and should not block driveways or exits. The school assumes no responsibility for damage to vehicles or theft of articles from vehicles while on school property. Please observe the 10 MPH speed limit and refrain from using cell phones while driving on campus.
Lunch Each staff member and child will need to bring lunch every day that does not require heating or refrigeration. Staff members are to remain on campus throughout the day, including lunch time. Lunch time is not a break time for staff. It is an opportunity to expand your relationship with the children and talk, play, or laugh with them. All Summer at Far Brook staff have a lunch period with their children and must eat alongside them and engage in social interaction. Staff can purchase lunch through Simply Gourmet.
Camp Photographers Far Brook School has a social media team who will help support taking photos this summer. These photos are organized in a Google Photos account, then shared with parents weekly. They are also used in the off-season for social media and promotional purposes. We are proud to show off the wonderful things we do, so please welcome the photographers into your classrooms and spaces and show them the activities, projects, and skills you are working on with your campers. If you have an exciting project that you want captured in photos, please contact the camp office with details and we will alert the photographers. Using a personal device for taking photos is strictly prohibited.
Lost & Found Lost & found boxes are outside the camp office. When you find an item and cannot locate its owner, please bring it to the camp office and place it in the box. Be sure to first check to see if there is a name or label inside the item. Lost & found items will be photographed, compiled into an online photo album, and emailed to families. Any unclaimed items at the end of camp will be donated.
Telephone Use The phones located throughout the buildings and in the camp offices are used exclusively for business purposes. They may be used for urgent local personal calls; however, the telephones are not for personal purposes. Long distance telephone calls require a unique passcode and therefore should not be attempted.
Email, Voicemail & Internet Policy Summer at Far Brook maintains email, voicemail, and Internet to assist in the conduct of its business. These systems are not to be used for solicitations, religious, charitable, or political causes, or any non-work related purpose. Employees using the school network should have no expectation of privacy when utilizing school networks, systems, or electronic communication resources. Do not send confidential material or information you would not want the whole world to see via e-mail.
Social Media Policy Always exercise appropriate discretion when using social media for personal communications (friends, colleagues, parents, former campers, etc.) with the knowledge that adult behavior on social media may be used as a model by our campers. Do not initiate or accept friend requests with current or former campers under the age of 18. Remind all other members of your network of your position as an educator whose profile may be accessed by current or former campers, and to monitor their posts to your network accordingly. Conversely, be judicious in your postings to all friend sites and act immediately to remove any material from your site that may be inappropriate. Associate with social media groups consistent with healthy, pro-social activities and the mission and reputation of Summer at Far Brook. Act with sensitivity within the context of a diverse educational environment in which both students
and adults practice tolerance and accept competing views. Understand that you should not be on a social media site for personal use during work hours. Please limit this activity to your off hours.
Confidentiality of Information Confidentiality of information is critical. Our lives overlap, and it is very easy to comment on a particular child's progress, behavior, social challenges, family status, etc. in front of others who may relay the information further. The comment may work to the disadvantage of the child in terms of unfair impression and reputation. Also, it may get back to the child's parents, causing hurt feelings, embarrassment and loss of respect for personnel and Summer at Far Brook. Parents have the right to expect that information regarding their children will remain confidential and will not become public knowledge. We must be professional in our discussions of children and discreet in the use of camp related data.
Smoking Smoking is not permitted in any area of the buildings or the campus. The smell of smoke on an employee's clothes or breath can be equally off-putting and is also prohibited.
Substance & Alcohol Abuse Policy It is the policy of Summer at Far Brook to maintain a community that is free from the effects of illegal drug, narcotic, and alcohol abuse. Employees are prohibited from the use, sale, dispensing, distribution, possession or manufacture of illegal drugs, narcotics or alcohol at any time. In addition, employees are prohibited from the off-premises use of illegal drugs, narcotics or alcohol when such activities adversely affect their performance or safety. Employees will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, for violations of this policy.
Prohibited Items Please note that the following items are not appropriate for camp, and children have been advised to leave them at home: • Electronic games and toys • Real or toy weapons, including water guns • Trading cards, comic books and other personal items of value • Cell phones (exception: if parents send a note that cell phone is for emergency use and will stay in backpack during camp.) • Any other electronic device • Shoes with wheels • Pets • Fidget spinners • Personal sports equipment, unless specified by a program leader, director, or teacher
Staff Meetings Staff meetings will be held periodically throughout the summer. ALL staff members are expected to attend and be on time.
Recycling As part of Far Brook School’s commitment to reduce waste and recycle all materials possible, please minimize your use of disposable bottles and label reusable water bottles. We expect that our summer staff and campers will honor the spirit on the school's environmental values and reduce, reuse, and recycle, whenever possible. Recycling and trash bins are located throughout campus. Please make every effort to put the all waste in the proper container.
Housekeeping & Maintenance The camp and the staff need to put every effort into keeping the buildings and grounds in good condition. It is YOUR responsibility to keep your respective classrooms and the hallways clean and neat at ALL times. Staff members are responsible for instilling pride in our campus and for personal property; therefore, children should be guided to make sure that their classroom is tidy at all times. When leaving the classroom at the end of the day, please make sure that it is neat and clean, which may include doing some of the following if necessary: 1. Wipe down tabletops 2. Clean up any spills 3. Return all materials to the appropriate storage area 4. Pick up any towels, clothes, trash, etc. off the floor 5. Make sure any harmful materials are locked away 6. Turn the lights off 7. Lock all outside doors and windows The evening cleaning personnel will clean the bathrooms. In the event that something in your classroom needs repair, please let the camp director know so that a work order can be completed and passed on to the Maintenance team.
Classroom Inspection Reports Each camp is responsible for monitoring the condition of their classroom continuously throughout the summer using a Facility Condition Report. This report asks Program Leaders to keep track of the condition of student desks, tables, chairs and teacher desks as well as other classroom items such as carpets and whiteboards. Any damages must be included on this report so that we can make repairs in a timely manner. This report will be in the folder you receive at the beginning of your camp and must be turned in to the camp office at the conclusion of your camp.
Interacting with Visitors As a camp that emphasizes community, we frequently have visitors on campus. Staff members should always make visitors feel welcome. All visitors are issued a visitor's pass by the camp offices. Should you encounter anyone without a visitor's pass, please ask if you can help and instruct them to go to the camp office to obtain a pass.
We ask that staff members not invite visitors of their own to the campus. In an environment where we are working with children and doing our utmost to ensure their safety, visitors can easily become distractions that impede supervisory duties. Additionally, visitors typically have not been through the same background checks that staff members have, and therefore could be considered "risks" in the presence of children.
Program Equipment Maintenance It is the responsibility of all staff to check program equipment on a regular basis for safety, ensure that all equipment is maintained in good repair, and store equipment in a manner to safeguard effectiveness. If equipment is not in good repair, it must be removed from service and the appropriate director should be notified. Equipment must also be appropriate to the size and ability of the campers.
Media Policy Far Brook School has designated spokespersons for speaking with the media. Anyone who is contacted by a member of the media should send the reporter to the Camp Director. If possible, the staff member should gather media contact information and pass it along to the Communications Office with the time and nature of the inquiry. The school has a formal Crisis Communications Plan for responding to media regarding all manner of crises, including physical emergencies, breaches of data systems, reputational damage, and similar issues.
Section Three: Human Resources Primepoint Summer at Far Brook utilizes an HR system called Primepoint that allows us to collect required employment forms digitally. Not only does this make our HR processes more efficient, but it also improves your experience by allowing for photo uploads, fingertip signatures, automated reminders, and fillable online forms. Rest assured that this system has best-in-class security infrastructure and privacy controls.
Payroll Summer at Far Brook pays employees on a twice per month basis. Paydays fall on the 1st and 15th of each month. Your compensation will be split among the paydays that fall within the range of your days worked and are specified in your Employment Agreement. Pay Period Schedule Pay Date Juluy 1 July 15 August 1 August 15
Salary Confidentiality Summer at Far Brook employees are paid based on an equitable pay scale that takes into consideration an employee's education level, and amount of experience working with children. Staff members are each assigned a salary based on this scale, which is reflected in your Letter of Employment. Please do not "compare" your salary with that of other staff members, or openly discuss your salary with other staff members, as this is considered inappropriate and even unprofessional behavior within most organizations, including ours. Salary is a private matter and any questions concerning your salary should be addressed to the Director only.
Staff Evaluations At Summer at Far Brook it is important that all staff members receive feedback from the administrative team. Our Directors will offer verbal feedback regularly throughout the summer. Each staff member will be informally evaluated in a way that is non-obtrusive to your camp program. Please welcome these evaluations as ways to learn and improve! You may also be formally evaluated if needed. Staff members are required to review the formal evaluation and return a signed copy to the Camp Office. In the event that you do not agree with the evaluation, you may request a review conference with the appropriate director. Evaluations will become a
part of your permanent employee file.
Leave & Absences It is extremely important that all absences are recorded properly. Leave is permitted only when an appropriate substitute can be found and when a formal request has been submitted to the Director at least seven days prior to the request. In the event of an emergency leave or an unexpected absence (including grievance), it is the staff member's responsibility to notify their supervisors as soon as possible. Questions with regards to pay adjustments for leave or absences should be directed to the Camp Administration.
Sexual Harassment Policy Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited and Summer at Far Brook is committed to making sure its employees know that sexual harassment is prohibited. Employees must avoid any action or conduct that could be fairly viewed as sexual harassment, including unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual acts or favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Some examples of prohibited behavior are:
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Unwelcome physical acts of a sexual nature Unwelcome sexual advances or propositions Unwelcome and excessive comments about another's physical appearance, sexually-oriented or demeaning gestures, jokes, or comments that offend the recipient or others, threats of sexual conduct, and obscene communications. These examples are not all-inclusive, but simply illustrative. Other prohibited behavior includes ignoring or dismissing a complaint about sexual harassment and retaliation for reporting sexual harassment complaints. Any employee who has a complaint of sexual harassment at work by anyone, including supervisors, co workers, guests, contractors, campers, or parents, should act on the problem promptly. If someone engages in conduct that, in your opinion, violates Summer at Far Brook’s policy, you should: • Immediately tell the person engaged in such conduct that it offends you. The direct approach can be helpful in many instances. • Report the situation to your supervisor, or if you are uncomfortable with that, then to the next-level supervisor, or the applicable director, other senior administrators, or to the Head of School. In addition, anyone who has observed sexual harassment or retaliation should also immediately report it. Any person in a managerial role who receives a complaint or who observes harassing conduct should inform the Camp Director immediately. Summer at Far Brook emphasizes that an employee is not required to complain first to his or her supervisor if that supervisor is the individual who is harassing the employee. Prompt reporting of any harassing conduct enables Summer at Far Brook to respond rapidly and take appropriate action, and helps us maintain an environment free of harassment for all employees. Complaints will be promptly and thoroughly investigated with as much confidentiality as possible. Summer at Far Brook will not reveal the names of participants, the facts of an investigation, or any written information regarding an investigation to anyone not directly involved in the investigation, except to the extent required by law. Following an investigation, if an employee at any level is found to have engaged in prohibited sexual harassment,
appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. It should be noted that if an investigation reveals that a complaint is intentionally false, or that an employee has intentionally provided false information regarding a complaint, appropriate disciplinary action may be taken against such individual. Summer at Far Brook will not tolerate retaliation against any person who makes a complaint about sexual harassment or assists in a sexual harassment investigation. Retaliation itself is a serious violation of this policy and should be reported immediately. Any person who engages in retaliatory conduct towards any employee who cooperated in an investigation or made a complaint regarding harassment will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Equal employment opportunity policies confirm that Summer at Far Brook, in accordance with applicable federal laws, provides equal opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, or mental or physical disability.
Conditions of Severance Employment may be terminated by Summer at Far Brook at any time for causes such as, but not limited to, criminal, unethical or fraudulent conduct, or poor, unreasonable or negligent performance of your duties. All financial obligations included in your Employment Agreement shall cease upon the occurrence of any of these events.
On the Job Injuries Accidents arising out of, or sustained in the course of, the job are generally covered by Worker's Compensation, a compulsory state insurance policy carried by the school. In the event of an accident occurring at work, the employee is responsible for notifying the Nurse or Director as soon as possible, but no later than 48 hours after the accident. Failure to do so may result in ineligibility for Worker's Compensation benefits.
Section Four: Arrival & Dismissal Procedures Facilitating carpool requires an "all hands-on deck" approach. Please bring your patience with you each day. Everyone is assigned a specific role and everyone's help is essential in maintaining a safe and efficient process. Please read the following procedures carefully.
Pick-Up Cards Each family will receive a Summer at Far Brook Pick-up Card on or before their first day that shows the first and last name of each child on their account. This should be placed on the dashboard of their car, which serves as an indication to the staff that the driver is an authorized pickup person for those children. Parents may share their dashboard sign with others who may need to pick up their children so that they can place it on the dashboard of their cars. This is especially helpful for carpools and last-minute changes of pickup persons. A child should not be released to anyone who does not have this dashboard sign. However, there are certain situations that may arise that would require further steps to be taken: • If someone arrives who does not have a dashboard sign, you will refer to the child's authorized pickup persons list. You must ask to see the ID of the driver to confirm their identity before releasing the child. • If someone arrives to pick up a child, does not have a dashboard sign, and is not on the authorized pick up persons list, you must call the primary contact to confirm the arrangement. • If someone chooses to park and walk to pick up a child, they should bring their dashboard sign with them. Even if they are not in their car, this sign authorizes them to pick up the child.
Morning Arrival Some things to remember regarding safety during ARRIVAL:
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Ensure the car has come to a complete stop before you open the car door. Help the child safely get out of the car. Our smaller children may need a little extra help with this. Caregivers will get out of their car at the Welcome Zone.
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Direct children to their appropriate camp meeting spot. Ask parents to pull their car forward as the line progresses. SMILE!
Afternoon Dismissal It is essential that you are at your dismissal zone promptly at the conclusion of your program. Your tardiness will clog up the entire carpool line. Refer to your program schedule to determine when you will have time to organize your children's belongings so that they are ready to go at the end of the day. You MUST accompany your children to your designated dismissal zone and remain with them until they have all been picked up.
Some things to remember regarding safety during DISMISSAL: • Carefully and quickly walk children to the car. • Ensure the car has come to a complete stop. • Always load children on the curbside of the car. • Open the car door and help the child in. • Please refrain from buckling children in. Parents can pull forward to buckle them in.
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Ask parents to pull their car forward as the line progresses. SMILE!
Regular Dismissal Carpool: Directors, counselors, and teachers must wait with their children in their dismissal area and listen to the walkie talkie for your campers to be called. It is important that you listen carefully for the names of your children to be called. Then directors, counselors, and teachers will get the child ready for pick up and direct him/her to their car. We want to avoid having the parents get out and help their kids, so if the child needs to be buckled in, ask the parent/driver to move out of the carpool line to do so once the child is in the car. Caregivers will get out of their car in the Welcome Zone to mee their camper. All staff members will remain with their campers until everyone has been picked up.
Rainy Day Dismissal Carpool: Children go to their designated indoor zone locations, but staff stays outside and continues to help with dismissal.
Severe Weather Dismissal The Summer at Far Brook office will make an announcement over the walkie-talkies. During a severe weather dismissal, all carpool, procedures are halted. When the announcement is made that we are going to commence a severe weather dismissal, please follow these procedures: 1) Proceed with children to your designated indoor zone location. 2) Do not release children outside alone. You may release children to authorized pickup persons who come into the building. 3) Keep children calm. 4) Wait for further instructions from the camp office or Director. When the threat has passed, you will hear an announcement over the walkie-talkies. Only then will regular dismissal resume.
Section Five: Working with Children Camper Summary Each program leader and counselor will receive Confidential Camper Bio for the children in their program. This form includes important information about each child such as parent contact information, health and allergy information, and any limitations or restrictions to activity. It is extremely important that you review your Confidential Camper Bio prior to the start of camp so that you are aware of any behavior problems, health issues, or general personality traits that may affect a child's ability to participate, follow directions, or function within the group. Being prepared with this information before camp starts will help you interact better with each child and set you both up for a successful camp experience.
Appropriate Interactions 1) Be mindful of your physical and verbal interactions with your children. While certain types of physical contact are okay (high fives, pats on the back, hugs) others should be avoided at all times. • Staff should not allow children to sit in their lap. • Staff should not carry children or have them on their shoulders. • This can be a problem with our youngest children since some staff have a tendency to "baby" them, let them sit in their laps, carry them places, etc. But allowing them to do things on their own, with your guidance, is the best way to help them develop their confidence and independence. • Please make sure that the language you use with children is safe and appropriate. Children at this age are apt to repeat any new words they hear, even if they don't know what it means. If you are uncertain about a word, it is best not to use it. A good general rule is to be very careful with any word that has primarily a negative connotation. Always correct children if you hear them use words of this nature (instead of "that sucks" remind them to say "I don't like that"). 2) Staff should avoid being alone with children at all times. Always work in groups or teams. If you are alone in the classroom with a child, always have the door open and be in view of anyone passing by in the hallway. Work with your partner in the classroom to be sure that the children are always monitored and that you two can monitor each other. Please make sure that the inside of your classroom is open and visible from the hallways, and refrain from covering windows with decorations or paper that would obstruct the view. Classrooms are situated in such a way that there will be very little need to ever close your door. This should only be done when all or a large portion of the class is inside. 3) Staff discussions are to remain professional. Please do not talk about your personal life around any children. 4) Any issues concerning a child are to be handled in a confidential and professional manner. If you are unsure of how to handle a situation, you should request the help of the Camp Director immediately.
5) Staff members are not allowed to take pictures of children with personal cameras.
6) Staff should always feel comfortable talking to the Camp Directors about any issue that concerns them. If a staff member witnesses or hears anything that alarms them, it is their responsibility to talk to a Camp Director immediately. Always keep your eyes and ears open regarding the safety of our children. Listen to your children when they tell you about things they don't like, places they don't want to go to, or people they wish to avoid. In this manner, we can make sure that nothing goes unnoticed. 7) All counselors should participate in activities with the children. There should be no standing around watching the children as you talk to one another. We want to show them what sportsmanship, proper play behavior, and camaraderie look like.
Bathroom Supervision Children will be instructed to wear their bathing suits to camp so that they can be ready for water activities. If they do not, you will need to allow time for them to change into their water gear. All children will need to change out of their bathing suits after water activities. Always be sure to give children the privacy they need to change, whether it is in the locker room, bathroom, cubby area, or somewhere else. You may want to have an activity going (story, game, etc.) and dismiss the children a few at a time to change. Always send children of the same gender they identify with to change. The children should be encouraged to change themselves, but sometimes our youngest children may need help. Keen supervision is essential. Be sure to treat children with dignity and respect for their privacy, and make adequate and sensitive arrangements for changing when needed. Staff must to be present to ensure proper behavior of the children, but should avoid just standing around watching children change. Make expectations clear that teasing, pointing, and commenting on someone's body is unacceptable. Staff must always change privately and never in the same space as children. Always avoid being in the changing area alone with a child. Similarly, supervision in bathrooms is often necessary with groups of children. Set expectations that roughhousing, vandalism, and yelling is not allowed and prohibit behaviors that may invade a child's privacy. Staff should not be present in the same bathroom stall as a child unless the situation warrants additional help.
Camper Behavior Staff members should be aware of the following inappropriate behaviors/actions that Summer at Far Brook does not tolerate. Should staff members observe these types of behaviors/actions, disciplinary action should be taken. • No child may use inappropriate or objectionable language. • No child may physically or verbally assault another person.
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No child may destroy or deface school/camp property. No child may use or possess drugs, alcohol, tobacco or inhalants. No child may harass others. No child may possess real or toy weapons, including water guns.
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No child may leave the grounds without permission.
Athletic Interactions Summer at Far Brook requires that staff play activities alongside the children. However, you must remember that you are adults and your strength and abilities far outweigh those of the children. When engaged in athletic play with children, you should be cautious of the way you kick and throw balls so as not to injure the children. Also remember that is it your job to model good teamwork and sportsmanship, both in your actions and your words.
Discipline Policy Summer at Far Brook strives to create a positive atmosphere for children, where they are nurtured by staff members that care for them. This nurturing is geared toward maintaining this positive atmosphere, as opposed to one that is centered on punishment for misbehavior. Summer at Far Brook also focuses on helping children understand that camp is an environment where they can learn many things about themselves and the world surrounding them, mainly through interactions with others. As this learning occurs, part of our job is to help teach children that they should use their words instead of physicality to resolve conflicts. Anger, criticism, humiliation, and corporal methods are all forms of punishment. Doing pushups, running laps, yelling, and the arbitrary removal of privileges and rewards are common examples. Inexperienced staff and those under a time crunch are particularly prone to using this approach. There are many problems that make the aforementioned approaches inadvisable: • Children learn only that the behavior resulted in punishment; they do not learn how to change the behavior in order to still get their needs met. • Compliance will only happen when there is sufficient strength to enforce it. The children's psychological reaction is usually resistance, secret defiance, or surface compliance so that he can retain some sense of control and dignity. The child's focus is on anger instead of reflecting on what they did. Often they focus on how to avoid getting caught the next time.
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Children may internalize that they are a bad person, which degrades self-esteem.
Inducing guilt is also a form of discipline. The silences with a look of disapproval, a sigh, slow shaking of the head are all nonverbal methods to communicate disgust. As with punishment, guilt does not teach the camper how to replace the behavior that resulted in guilt, while still having his needs and objectives met. It is normal for staff members to be "chummy" with the children, but you must realize that you are the adult in charge of the group. Consequences for poor choices should include a natural consequence: it is one that arises as a result of the behavior without any outside intervention. A logical consequence is related to the behavior, but someone imposes it with power. For example, if a camper writes graffiti on a wall, they must restore the surface to its original condition. Artificial consequences are unrelated to the behavior problem. For example, if a camper does not help clean up he cannot participate in the afternoon party. This is considered a form of punishment. The staff member's goal should
not be to solve children' problems, but rather to give them information and support to create their own solutions. Giving a camper a choice between two distinct possibilities when they are demonstrating defiance typically works well with regard to rectifying these types of situations. This enables the camper to feel they are in control of the outcome of a situation, while also allowing you to set firm expectations. For example, a camper is having difficulty keeping their hands off of other children while lining up to go to the activity. A choice could be given of either keeping his/her hands to him/herself, or going to the back of the line. This method can be adapted to fit almost any situation, and can be especially helpful when a camper is not doing what is expected. Having children make choices also helps teach them to think for themselves and be responsible for their own actions. Redirecting children can also be an effective method of managing misbehavior. This can be helpful in situations where you sense problems are about to occur. An example of this would be diverting children into an acceptable activity that redirects their energy when they are beginning to tease or fight with each other. Carefully planning activities for children that actively engage them and steer them away from "idle time" can help tremendously. The more involved children are in structured activities, the less likely they are to experience behavioral problems. We can help a child learn new ways to behave while identifying what he/she did that was inappropriate. We can provide children with tools for coping with obstacles that they encounter as they learn how the world works. We do not permit or allow any physical punishment. Verbal messages shall demonstrate respect for each child.
Incident Reporting Procedures Staff are required to complete a written incident report describing incidents, accidents, and emergencies that may not result in an injury. The camp director has the responsibility to determine the level of severity or seriousness of incidents that must be reported. Examples of "incidents" and "accidents" include fires, natural disasters, danger from intruders or trespassers, crises arising out of children or staff behavior (fighting, serious emotional outbursts, threatening others), or other situations posing serious safety threats. Incident reports can be obtained from the camp office.
Section Six: Health Plan Camper health information is collected and maintained through the camp management software. It is completed by parents during the registration process, and any additional required forms are uploaded into each online account. Staff members fill out health history forms which are kept with the Camp Nurse in case of emergency.
Camper Summary Each program leader and counselor will receive Confidential Camper Bios for the children in their program. This form includes important information about each child such as allergy information, any on-campus prescription medications, approval for over-the-counter medications, and any health information that may affect the child's ability to participate fully in camp activities. It is extremely important that you review your Confidential Camper Bios prior to the start of camp so that you can prepare for any restrictions or modifications that need to be made.
General Health Care & Prevention Staff members should model proper daily health care such as washing, brushing teeth, good eating and sleeping habits. All staff members should wash their hands as often as possible, but mainly before and after handling food, after using the bathroom, and after using public equipment available for everyone to use.
Daily Health Observations The staff should observe each child daily for general health signs, health complaints, cold symptoms, signs of depression, cuts, bites, stings, burns, and other injuries. All injuries or health problems should be reported to the Summer at Far Brook Directors or Nurse.
Well Child Policy Summer at Far Brook believes sick children recover best at home. Sick children are unable to participate in activities and may expose other children and staff to a contagion. The Camp Nurse may call to request that a child be picked up because of illness or contagion, and the camp expects the parent/guardian to respond to the request in a timely fashion. If they cannot be reached, the designated emergency contact will be notified. Prior to returning to camp, a child must: ● Have had a normal temperature for 24 hours. ● Have been free of vomiting or diarrhea for 24 hours. ● Have been appropriately treated for the contagious disease. (Parents may be asked to provide written documentation from the child's physician stating the child has been treated and is no longer contagious.)
A diagnosed communicable disease of a child or member of his/her immediate family must be reported to the camp within 24 hours of the diagnosis. Communicable diseases include, but are not limited to, COVID-19, hepatitis, measles, mumps, tuberculosis, chicken pox, and polio. The child may return to camp with a written statement from a doctor, nurse, or other licensed practitioner attesting that the child is free from contagion.
Allergy Management Allergy information is included in the Confidential Camper Bio. Food allergies are indicated as inhaled, contact, or ingested so that you are aware of the severity of the allergy. Parental Responsibilities: Summer at Far Brook is a nut-conscious campus and therefore we ask the camp community to refrain from bringing nut products to campus. Parents will assume primary responsibility for educating their children in the management of their allergies: e.g., to have epinephrine (as prescribed by their treatment plans), to know their food limitations, to not share food, utensils, or containers, and to tell an adult if they experience the onset of an allergic reaction. Child Responsibilities: Food-allergic children must understand their limitations and not share food, utensils, or containers. If the child thinks he/she may have been exposed to an allergen, he/she needs to notify a staff member immediately so that necessary medical action can be taken. Camp Responsibilities: The use of adrenaline (epinephrine) is critical in the early treatment of severe allergic reactions. In the event of an anaphylactic reaction to a food or an insect sting, allergen emergency procedures will include: • Administering epinephrine (EpiPen) or other emergency medications. • Calling 911 (when calling, state child has a life-threatening allergy and will require epinephrine be available on the ambulance). • Having a familiar and trusted adult accompany the child. • Contacting the child's parents or emergency contact.
Minor Injuries The Camp Nurse and directors keep a supply of first aid items to care for minor scratches, cuts, bumps, and bruises. It is always best to have someone check out any injury, so always err on the side of caution. Some children can be unduly frightened by a cut lip or a surface injury which bleeds freely.
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Bloody nose - DO NOT TOUCH BLOOD! Hand the child a tissue, paper towel, napkin or something disposable and have them sit and pinch their nose for 5 minutes to allow the nose to stop bleeding. It is best to have them sit quietly instead of rushing them to the Health Room. Movement only increases the bleeding.
The following is a list of minor injuries that should be referred to the nurse for treatment.
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Bee sting Twisted ankle Glass in foot Nausea
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Splinter Bumped head Burn (minor)
Serious Injuries If a child has been struck hard or has fallen heavily, stay with the child and UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ATTEMPT TO MOVE THEM. Reassure them and keep the child quiet. DO NOT TRY TO GIVE WATER TO AN INJURED child. Call Priority One: Medical and state your location to alert the Camp Director and Camp Nurse of the emergency.
Blood borne Pathogens A blood borne pathogen is an infectious agent present in human blood or other body fluids. Staff members should try their best to avoid coming into contact with others' blood and bodily fluids.
Sun Safety Throughout the summer, both children and staff members are out in the sun a fair amount of the day. It is imperative, and the staff member's responsibility, to help children avoid serious sunburns. Caregivers must provide sunscreen for their child on the first day of camp, labeled with their name. Unless you have been notified otherwise, all parents agreed to allow Summer at Far Brook staff members assist their child with sunscreen application when needed. You are responsible for making sure that sunscreen is applied 10 to 15 minutes before going out into the sun and during long periods of prolonged sun exposure, swimming or a high level of physical activity. Surfaces such as sand, concrete and water reflect the sun's rays, so be diligent about sunscreen when activities take place on these surfaces. Remember that burns can occur even on cloudy days. Children should also be encouraged to drink a lot of water, especially on particularly hot days. Children should take their water bottles everywhere they go. Don't let a child leave their water bottle behind or carry an empty one around. Do periodic water checks throughout the day to make sure everyone has water and is drinking water. Watch for symptoms such as cramps, tiredness, headache, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, decreased alertness, confusion, and belligerence. The skin may also be cool, moist, pale, or flushed. All of these symptoms may be related to heat illness. If you suspect heat illness, the best thing you can do is to get the child out of the heat, loosen tight clothing, and apply cool wet cloths. In addition, any child who says he/she cannot continue playing a sport should be allowed to stop the activity. If the person appears to be losing consciousness, call the Camp Nurse, Camp Director, or main office.
Head Lice Main methods of transmission:
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Head to head contact - Transmission is greatest during periods of physical activity when body temperature is raised. Lice tend to go to the ends of the hair and therefore transfer easily.
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From clothing and hats, plush toys, carpets and shared cloth items (like dress-up costumes).
Management techniques for reducing the spread of lice:
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Children's clothing should be hung in cubbies, or hung in such a way that it does NOT TOUCH other children' clothing.
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Painting smocks should be placed in cubbies, or hung in such a way that they do not touch one another.
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Costumes and dress-up clothes can be areas of high contagion. Unfortunately, during periods of high infestation, it is best to curtail such play.
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Be aware of and avoid activities that encourage head to head contact.
If a child is suspected of having lice, the Camp Nurse will look closely through the hair. If live lice or nits are observed, a parent will be contacted and asked to pick up the child from camp in order to provide the necessary treatment at home. The nurse will need to recheck the head to assure that all live lice and nits are gone before permission will be granted for the child to return to camp. A letter will be sent home to all parents in a specific class or camp group when a case of lice has been identified; however, the affected child's name will not be mentioned. This is a precautionary measure in order to prevent the spread of the condition.
Head Injuries The following is a list of procedures that should be followed in case of head injury: 1. Depending upon the severity of the head injury, the child should be transported to the Camp Nurse who will check for a possible concussion and notify the child's parent. 2. If the child is unconscious, call 911, Priority One: Medical to alert the Camp Nurse, and the main office. 3. Never send anyone with a head injury by themselves to the Health Room.
Documentation All health complaints must be recorded in the medical log kept on file in the nurse's office and should include the date, child's name, ailment, treatment, and signature of the RN on duty. An injury report will be completed for serious medical emergencies.
AED's There are defibrillators on campus and a map of their location in your binder and in the camp office. They are only to be used if there is no breathing and no pulse
Medications Medication information is included in the Confidential Camper Bio. It will list all approved over the-counter medications, any prescription medications that are taken at home, and any prescription medications that are to be dispensed at camp. The Nurse shall administer over-the-counter medications and prescription medications only when there has been approval from a parent and a signed Prescription Medication Authorization form is on file for that specific medication. All medications must be in its original container bearing its original label which shows the prescriptive order/dosage, possible side effects, etc. Medication is to be kept in a locked storage compartment, under proper storage conditions, and it is to be distributed only by the Nurse or a person designated by the Nurse. All unused medication is to be returned to the child's parent at the end of the program session or when no longer needed, with a notation of this made in the medical log. There may be occasions where a child arrives to camp with medication. If a staff member encounters this, they need to take the medication immediately to the Camp Nurse, who will be responsible for storing it and administering it to the child. Medication may not be left in backpacks, cubbies or any other area within their reach. However, there are some children who have permission to self-carry certain emergency medications. This will be noted on the Confidential Camper Bio.
Standing Orders for Over-the-Counter Medications Standing orders are available to be used at the nurse's discretion for a limited number of overthe-counter medications (i.e. Benadryl, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Bacitracin, etc.) and for epinephrine. New Standing Orders are obtained on a yearly basis.
First Aid Supplies & Treatment Area First Aid supplies will be ordered by the Summer at Far Brook Office and kept in a storage cabinet in the Summer at Far Brook Health Room. Our health room is maintained by a registered nurse and has all the necessary equipment to provide care and first aid to children and staff. All areas where programs are conducted shall have a well-equipped first aid kit on hand. When a program is conducted away from normal program areas, the supervisor and staff are required to have a first aid kit available.
Medical Records & Health Forms A written health record is on file in the Nurse's office for all children and staff before the beginning of the program. The health record includes the following: Adults (ages 18 & up)
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name of primary provider of medical care emergency contact person pertinent information regarding any significant medical problems current medications
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immunization history permission to treat
Children (ages 3 - 17)
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allergy information immunization history name of primary provider of medical care authorization of over-the-counter medications pertinent information regarding any significant medical problems permission to treat
Summer at Far Brook administrators, program directors and Nurse will review the medical records of each child at the start of the program to familiarize themselves with the overall health of each child.
Disseminating Information to Staff All information regarding policies and procedures are included in the Summer at Far Brook Staff Handbook. The staff will receive a Confidential Camper Bio for all of their children on a weekly basis and will be alerted to any medical conditions that should be generally monitored. A plan of action will be formulated and executed by the nurse for any child that has a medical problem that requires day-to-day monitoring.
Confidentiality of Medical Information Confidentiality is maintained by ensuring that only administrative staff have access to child and staff files. All other staff members are provided with information about children that is deemed necessary.
Section Seven: Supervision Plan Staff/Camper Ratio Programs with children ages 3 through 6 must have 1 staff member present for every 6 children. When the children are school age, there must be 1 staff member present for every 15 children. Children may not be left alone at any time. Summer at Far Brook’s Directors will be available for consultation with children, parents, and employees during all camp hours.
Attendance Attendance lists will be distributed every week and should be used daily to keep track of your participants. The attendance list should be turned into the appropriate director at the end of each week. Please complete the attendance sheet every morning and hand in to the camp office.
Responsibilities & Guidelines It is important to recognize the personal liability factor involved if a child is injured while a staff member is not in attendance. If a staff member must leave his/her post, it is his/her responsibility to inform a counselor nearby of the fact so that another staff member can supervise the group. No child may be left unattended anywhere on campus (including the classroom). While attending to children on the playground, staff members must be supervising and interacting simultaneously. Never leave children without adult supervision. Young Leaders or Junior Counselors are not allowed to be alone with the group. Staff members are responsible for the active supervision of children when playing outside. FREE OUTDOOR PLAY MUST BE SUPERVISED, move around and visit with the children. Children should not play in areas beyond the vision of supervising staff members, including the trees and bushes. Help children understand reasonable boundaries. All areas and outside spaces must be monitored while children are at play.
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Should you believe a child is missing, IMMEDIATELY secure the help of a neighboring staff member to supervise your group and contact the Camp Administration.
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To alert Camp Administration use the term Priority One: Camper.
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Never excuse a child from campus without permission from the Camp Administration. At all times, including dismissal, only the rightful parent or person authorized by the parent may take a child from camp. If there is ANY question prior to dismissal of a child, check with the camp office, even at the risk of displeasing the person who has come for the child. Do not rely on information that a child may provide. ALWAYS CHECK!! Parents know that verbal instructions from their child are not acceptable.
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To ensure child safety while walking through campus, one staff member should be in the front of the group and one staff member should be in the back of the group. If there
are other staff members, they should be evenly spaced throughout the middle of the group.
Missing Child Procedures In the unlikely event that a child should become lost or missing while in the custody of Summer at Far Brook, the following procedures should be implemented: • The Camp Administration should be notified immediately. Call Priority One: Camper and state your location.
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Contact campus security to make them aware of the situation. A thorough search of the camp grounds and buildings should be conducted. Other children should be kept calm and unaware of the situation if possible. If the child is not found during the search of the grounds and buildings, the Camp Director will contact the child's parents. Then the Camp Director will contact the local Police Department and file a missing person's report (assemble pertinent rescue information, including name, age, description, photograph if available, and time and circumstances of last sighting).
Section Eight: Specialized Activity Safety Plans Archery Archery range is located in an area away from all other camp activity locations. The range is clearly marked. The range is run by an archery certified instructor and is assisted by other staff to camp reach a ratio of 1:10. The instructors are responsible for all regulations, procedures, and set up pertaining to the archery range. The rules of the archery range are reviewed at the beginning of each activity period and are strictly enforced. Children not selected to shoot are supervised in an area away from the shooting zone. All equipment is checked daily. The bows, arrows and quivers are set up by the instructors. When not in use, the equipment is stored in a locked room not accessible by children. All equipment should be appropriate to the size and ability the children.
Specialized Sports All equipment should be appropriate to the size and ability the children and safety checked prior to each use. Only children currently registered for the camps are allowed to be in the activity area and the field/court must be supervised by the coach at all times. When the field/court is not supervised, all equipment must be stored in locked closets or out of sight/reach of unauthorized children.
Section Nine: Emergency Preparedness Security Every staff member at Summer at Far Brook has a responsibility for the security of the campus and our children. Each person is responsible for his or her own area, which means making sure that outside doors and classroom windows are locked, closets, desks, and harmful materials are secured, and any dangerous conditions are reported to the Camp Administration right away. Unescorted strangers on the campus should be politely greeted and offered assistance and directions. Suspicious persons should be reported to the Camp Office at once. Visitors will be identified by visitor badges, which can be picked up from the various Camp Offices. The staff are the eyes and ears of the summer program. It is your responsibility to make the camp administrators aware of ANY situation that arises, no matter how small or innocent. You will never be in the wrong by letting us know! Please note that all doors will be locked during the camp day. Locked doors may be used to exit, but reentry will not be allowed. Never prop a door or allow entry via an exit door - gently direct visitors to proper entry doors instead. For further information, contact your director.
Fire Drills Fire drills are held once a month at various times of the day. The fire drill procedures are posted in each classroom. Staff members should remember to take their attendance list with them, to keep children calm, and to walk to the designated area. All campers will exit to the sports field. We will conduct role call over the walkie talkie to which you respond green or red. If your class is all present you respond green. If you are missing an adult or child from your group you respond red which will alert someone over the walkie talkie to state the location of that individual. Each week, you should take a few minutes to familiarize your children with the evacuation procedures. All staff members must assist with the fire drills and must vacate the buildings.
Communication Codes Emergencies can vary in degree of severity, and it is important that staff communicate this information to the appropriate directors in an effective way. It is also important to relay this information in a manner that does not cause panic or fear for children. In case of emergency, use the following codes to communicate via phone or walkie-talkie:
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Priority One Medical = medical emergency that needs immediate assistance Priority One Camper = lost camper emergency that needs immediate assistance Tourist = unidentified person on campus
Core Principles Emergencies come in many forms, and there are no set rules for staying safe. Our thinking is that, much like learning principles in a math class that are then applied to multiple problems, we have four core principles related to emergency response that have multiple applications. Those simple principles are: • If you see something, say something. • Move away from danger, not toward it. • When in doubt, trust yourself to make a decision. • Run, hide, fight. These basic principles can guide us to making good decisions in a variety of situations. But the main point is that by practicing the above - in a variety of drill situations - we hope to build the muscle memory we need in the event of a real incident.
Procedures Lockdown is an emergency alert and response to imminent danger in the school or on campus. Children, staff and visitors report to the nearest securable location under adult supervision. An administrator ensures that 911 is called to request immediate assistance. Children, staff and visitors remain secured until police have controlled the situation. Evacuation is an emergency alert and response called by an administrator when it is too dangerous to remain in school buildings. In an emergency, an administrator may call a directed evacuation, which requires children, staff and visitors to move to a location that is at least 300 feet away from a building. Shelter is an emergency alert and response called by an administrator when it is too dangerous to leave the school buildings. In a safety shelter, children, staff and visitors are asked to remain indoors, secure exterior doors, and continue classroom or other activities. Public safety officials will notify the school when the situation is under control. Reunification is an emergency response that is sometimes needed to reunify a child with a parent or guardian. In the event of an emergency or crisis that requires children, staff and visitors to be dismissed at an unusual time or location, Far Brook will communicate with members of the community after consulting with local police or other emergency personnel. Far Brook will then communicate with our community regarding reunification procedures via email, text and our website.
In all cases, use common sense; head away from danger, not toward it. Note that in a Campus Emergency, some areas may be in lockdown (a danger literally right outside their door) while other areas can safely evacuate the building or even the campus.
Campus Emergency Notification A Campus Emergency Notification can be initiated via any (or ideally, all) of the following communication vehicles:
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Walkie-Talkies - An alert will be sent through all walkie-talkie channels, and those receiving the message should pass on the alert to all those nearby.
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PA Systems - If possible, emergency messages should be relayed via building PA systems.
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Word of mouth - In case of emergency, all personnel should keep their eyes and ears working such that those out of range of standard modes of communication might be accessible via voice communication.
How to respond to an Emergency Notification:
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When you hear an emergency notification move to nearest secure, indoor location and await further instructions. These instructions may come via walkie-taklie, PA, or word of mouth. If the nearest building is being evacuated, move to the nearest evacuation area. In a real emergency with a life-threatening, mobile danger, we would not gather in any "regular" evacuation area - rather we would follow instruction of emergency personnel.
An emergency situation will typically end with a 30-second "all clear" over the walkie talkie.
Natural Disasters & Severe Weather All indoor activities can continue, but those outside must immediately seek shelter. Abide by the following instructions: 1. If severe weather approaches, you will hear an alert over the walkie talkie. 2. Staff will assemble groups and return quickly to classrooms or other previously designated program locations. 3. Staff will do a head count and report totals as well as any missing children to the appropriate director immediately. 4. Children and staff will remain seated in classrooms or hallways away from windows until given the "all clear" signal.
Medical Emergency 1. Call Priority One Medical over the walkie talkie and state your location and the type of injury or illness. This will alert the Camp Nurse and Camp Director. 2. If an emergency vehicle is coming on campus, someone will be at the front driveway to direct them to the area of the emergency. 3. Ensure that an adult stays with the injured/disabled child until help arrives. Move all other campers away from the area. 4. The Nurse or Camp Director will notify parents and/or guardian immediately. 5. The Nurse will stay with the injured or disabled camper until a parent or guardian arrives.
Fire & Other Indoor Emergencies 1. In the event of a fire and/or other indoor emergency, a staff member should pull the fire alarm and evacuate the children calmly but efficiently to the designated evacuation area. 2. Keep groups together and take roll. Report any missing children to the appropriate director. 3. All staff members should stay with the group until the fire department/emergency services declare it safe to return to the building.
Crisis Quick Notes In case of emergency, follow these three steps: 1. Focus on your children - make good choices regarding the safety of individuals and the group 2. Contact a supervisor - use clear communication to describe degree of emergency 3. Follow instructions and stay calm
Key Phone Numbers • •
Emergency: 911 Camp Office: 973-379-344
Section Ten: Child Abuse Reporting Outside of Camp Child abuse can take many forms. These may include: • Physical abuse • Sexual abuse • Negligent treatment, including failure to provide warmth, affection, supervision, food, shelter and attention Physical abuse is the form of abuse that is usually the easiest to detect. It occurs when someone inflicts bodily harm on another that leaves physical injury. Most injuries, such as burns, cuts and bruises are visible; however, some injuries such as broken bones, head injuries and internal injuries may not be visible. Sexual abuse includes a variety of inappropriate behaviors, including both direct and indirect mistreatment by an adult or other child. Indirect sexual abuse includes actions where a child is shown something inappropriate of a sexual nature, engaged in inappropriate sexual dialogue, or even watched while undressing. Direct sexual abuse includes fondling and other forms of inappropriate physical contact. In most cases the abuser is known or related to the child and may have had an ongoing trusting relationship built over time. The younger the child, the more likely they are to believe it is a show of affection. Neglect is failure to provide basic care for a child. Basic care for a child includes food, clothes, health care, shelter and supervision. Neglect usually involves a combination of several neglectful behaviors. Children need to feel cared for and safe. Emotional abuse is belittling, criticizing and making the child feel worthless, unloved and generally put down most often verbally. This mistreatment may result in vicious emotional scars that impair psychological growth and development. These may include feelings of rejection, humiliation, intimidation, fear and guilt. While children are resilient, emotional abuse inflicted over a period of time, especially by a trusted adult, can shatter a child's self-image and undermine his/her sense of personal value. A child may not be able to interpret the meaning behind hurtful words and may begin to believe them. Emotional abuse, like sexual abuse, may cause more harm to the child because they are hidden and deeper then effects of physical abuse. It is important to know that many children are afraid to tell anyone that they are being abused. They may, however, reveal this fact indirectly. It is sometimes shown in their drawings, through stories and through the way they respond when someone touches them. Most abused children show some of the following symptoms: low self-esteem,
anger, guilt, aggressive or disruptive behavior, withdrawal, and delinquent or poor school performance. In some cases, a child will disclose abuse to a trusted staff member. This may result from a situation at home or at some other place or program. If a child discloses an abusive situation to a staff member, they should attempt to have a conversation that enables the child to feel they are talking in "private" and without other children being able to hear, but remain within view of another adult. Assure privacy, but do not promise you won't tell anyone or say something that may contradict the authorities. We are required to report even suspicion of child abuse to Child Protective Services. Remember:
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Be calm and show concern. Believe the child. Gather information but don't make judgments. Report to a camp director, who will report it to the proper authorities. Leave the investigation to the authorities. Reassure the child it is not their fault. Maintain confidentiality in the handling of information. Discuss matters pertaining of abuse only with the camp directors or investigating body.
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You will be asked to complete an incident report on the same day the incident is reported.
Inside Camp: Staff to Camper Abuse To protect staff members from allegation of child abuse the following guidelines (many recommended by the American Camp Association, or ACA) will be considered a policy at Summer at Far Brook: • Children are not to be subjected to "hazing" or "initiations". • Staff members will set limits with children who cling or hang on them. • Staff members will not engage in tickling, teasing, or wrestling with children as these activities can become over-stimulating for children who then get out of control.
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Romantic lives of staff members should never be shared with children. Children are not to be subjected to any types of corporal punishment, such as running laps, doing push-ups, standing still in one area for an extended period of time, etc.
In addition to the above, staff members will observe the following guidelines concerning physical contact between staff members and children: • Touch on the hand, shoulder or upper back. • Never against a child's will (unless in the case of clear and present danger of the child).
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Never in a manner that causes a child discomfort, whether expressed verbally or nonverbally.
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Always in the company of other adults. Never when it would have the effect of over-stimulating a child. Never in a place on a child's body that is normally covered by a bathing suit unless for a clear medical necessity and then only with supervision by another adult.
Do not put yourself in the position where it is only your word against the word of a child. Protect yourself and follow the camp policies.
Inside Camp: Camper to Camper Abuse (aka Bullying) It is the responsibility of the staff to provide an emotionally and physically safe environment for children when they are under our supervision. Ways we can prevent abuse of any kind between children include:
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Understanding that active supervision is crucial at all times. Alert supervision is the key to preventing camper to camper abuse.
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Never leaving children alone. Check on children that have "wandered off' for an extended period of time. Not allowing children to "put down" other children, or create hostile environments and/or group dynamics that exclude other children. Not permitting children to engage in activities such as wrestling or any other activities where they can be over-stimulated. While activities of this nature may seem like harmless fun, they can in fact lead to situations where children become over-stimulated and eventually lose control of their emotions and behavior.
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