18. What is Explorers' abuse prevention policy?
To safeguard the physical, mental and emotional well being of the children and adults in Explorers, the following policies have been established to prevent abuse:
o Two workers need to be present with any child or group of children at all times in the infant and preschool classes.
o Children through kindergarten are released only to properly identified and preauthorized individuals. Please pick up your kindergartners and under from their last classes as soon as possible.
o Anyone who has been convicted of either sexual or physical abuse will not be permitted to serve in any Explorers program for children.
o It is impossible to list all situations that may arise with regard to physical contact with our children. Different situations call for a variety of responses by the leader. For example, high fives, and comforting a younger child may be necessary and appropriate. Behavior that is always inappropriate is prolonged kissing, and touches in sexual areas of the body. Specific concerns and situations should be discussed with the administrator.
o The following bathroom procedures have been established:
-- One worker may not enter the bathroom alone with a child/children
-- The bathroom door should be propped open
-- The worker should wait by the bathroom door
-- The child should toilet him/herself (The child needs to enter the cubicle alone, wipe him/herself and pull up his/her own underwear. If a child comes to you by the door, you may help him/her with outer clothing).
-- It is suggested that the worker maintain conversation with the child so he/she does not feel alone.
-- Two workers may enter the sink area of a bathroom with a child/children.
o Responses not allowed as disciplinary measures:
-- Spanking, shaking or yanking.
-- Saying or doing anything to embarrass or degrade a child rather than encouraging proper behavior.
-- Telling a child he/she is bad
-- Threatening, yelling, shouting or swearing
o Every member is responsible to report abuse, or the suspicion of abuse to their team leader promptly.
o We do a background check on all co-op and professional instructors.