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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