Family Matters Participant Guidelines
Scent Smart
Please avoid wearing perfumes and colognes at Family Matters. Some of us are very allergic.
Breastfeeding
We are committed to being breastfeeding-friendly!
Sickness
If you or your child has the following symptoms, please do not attend Family Matters programs and events: fever, diarrhea, and/or vomiting within the last 24 hours, coloured mucus, or a general feeling of being unwell.
Storm Days
Family Matters closes when Annapolis County schools are closed. Call the centre if in doubt
Healthy Eating
Family Matters works with Public Health and dieticians to promote healthy eating and snacks at our programs and events. Local foods are used whenever possible. All foods are provided by Family Matters unless otherwise stated by staff.
Birthday Parties
Family Matters staff and volunteers cannot accept children’s birthday party invitations.
Gifts
We welcome cards and small, simple, homemade items from children. Letters of thanks are also welcome.
Respect
You have the right to be treated with respect by staff and volunteers. We ask that you return the favour!
Drug/Alcohol Use:
We ask that families, staff, and volunteers refrain from the use of drugs/alcohol (including vape pens, tobacco, and cannabis) while attending Family Matters Programming (either inside or outside).
Cell Phone Use:
We ask that families, staff, and volunteers limit the use of cell phones during programs at Family Matters. If you need to take a phone call, please be respectful of the program that is happening and go to a quiet space.
Children in Care:
Unless Family Matters Staff provide Childcare for a program, you are responsible for being present with your children during programs. Please let staff know if you need to step out for a phone call, chat with staff, or use the washroom.
Duty to report:
Family Matters Staff by law, have a duty to report any suspected/witnessed harm to a child.
Confidentiality:
Please be mindful of the confidentiality of other participants.
Behaviour Guidelines
The following guidance techniques will be used with our posted rules:
Praise
Praising children who are following the rules encourages them to repeat the behaviour.
Redirection
Assisting a child to replace inappropriate behaviour with an appropriate behaviour.
Communication
Staff explains why inappropriate behaviour is not acceptable. Discipline statements are expressed positively whenever possible. Comments are made about the behaviour, not the child.
Time Away
In extreme cases where a child is putting the safety of other children at risk (i.e. hitting, biting) and all other guidance techniques are ineffective, the parent or caregiver may be asked to remove the child from the remainder of that day’s program. In this case, that child and his or her parent / caregiver will always be welcome back at the next group or activity offered by Family Matters!
Duty to report
Family Matters Staff by law, have a duty to report any suspected/witnessed harm to a child.