Safe Environment Appropriate/Inappropriate Behaviors (PLEASE READ BEFORE COMPLETING FORM)
Sample: APPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS
Appropriate affection between Church personnel, volunteers and minors is important for a child's development and a positive part of Church life and ministry. The following forms of affection are regarded as appropriate examples for most Church sponosored programs and can be used in moderation:
Side hugs
Shoulder to shoulder or "temple" hugs
Pats on the shoulder or back
Handshakes
"High-fives"
Verbal praise
Holding hands while walking with small children
Sitting beside children
Kneeling or bending down for hugs with small children
Holding hands during prayer
Pats on the head when culturally appropriate (example: This gesture should typically be avoided in some Asian communities and other culturally diverse ethnic communities.)
Sample: INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIORS
In order to maintain the safest possible environment for children, the following are examples of inappropriate affection or behaviors that are not to be used in Church sponsored programs:
Using inappropriate language, swearing
Tickling children
Wrestling with children
Piggyback rides or swinging children around by their arms or feet
Holding children on the lap or carrying them
Kisses
Inappropriate or lengthy embraces
Inappropriate touching (examples: touching bottom, chest or genital areas)
Showing affection in isolated areas (examples: Closets, private or classroom areas where you cannot be seen.)
Any type of massage given to a child
Any form or unwanted affection or physical contact
Keeping secrets with children or helping children deceive others
Criticizing adults or children
Compliments or criticism that relates to physique or body development which makes a child uncomfortable
Discussing sexually oriented topics
Telling off-color jokes or making fun of anyone
Making sexual references and innuendos
Drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes or gambling with minors
Talking on cell phone or listening to iPod while children are in your care