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The Lighthouse, Risk and Readiness
Small-Program Starter Kit
Tool 1 of 3

Sample Code of Conduct

For every adult who works or volunteers with children in our program: staff, volunteers, board members, and contractors. Read it, ask questions, and sign it before your first day.

Boundaries and supervision

  • Keep every interaction with a child observable and interruptible: in view of another adult, with doors open or windows clear.
  • Avoid one-on-one time out of sight. If it can't be avoided, tell a supervisor first and stay where others can see you.
  • Follow our two-adult supervision plan for bathrooms, transitions, outings, and online sessions.

Physical contact

  • Keep touch brief, public, and welcomed by the child: high-fives, side hugs, a hand on the shoulder.
  • No lap sitting, tickling, wrestling, or touch a child pulls away from.
  • Never use physical punishment.

Communication and online contact

  • Use only program-approved channels. Copy a parent or second adult on messages to a child.
  • No private messages, late-night messages, or personal social media connections with children in the program.
  • Take photos only on program devices, with consent, and never post anything that shows where a child is or who they are.

Favoritism, gifts, and secrets

  • No special gifts, favors, or extra attention for one child.
  • Never ask a child to keep a secret from their parents or caregivers.

Transportation

  • Do not drive a child alone. Transport only with written caregiver permission, supervisor approval, and a second adult whenever possible.

Language and conduct

  • No sexual, demeaning, or harsh language, and no talk about your own romantic or sexual life.
  • No alcohol, drugs, or tobacco while responsible for children.

Speaking up

  • Report any concern about a child's safety, or an adult's behavior toward a child, to your program's designated lead the same day.
    Our lead:  
  • If you suspect abuse, also report to child protective services or law enforcement as your state requires. You do not need proof.
  • No one will face retaliation for raising a concern in good faith.
I have read this Code of Conduct, I understand it, and I agree to follow it. I understand that breaking it may mean removal from my role and, where required, a report to the authorities.
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