Nanny Camp Code of Conduct
Introduction
Welcome to Nanny Camp, organized by Adventure Nannies and Playful Acre. Since Nanny Camp’s inception in 2023, our goal has been to create a welcome space for all nannies to get together, unwind, fill their cups, and get to know other folx in the nanny community. A considerable part of this involves creating a safe environment on all levels where attendees can genuinely relax and expand their experiences, goals, and ideas. For Nanny Camp to work, attendees enthusiastically support our mission. They are devoted to keeping this special event a safe and healthy environment for everyone. This Code of Conduct outlines our expectations for camper behavior and the guiding principles to ensure a secure, respectful, and discrimination-free environment. We encourage you to read, understand, and adhere to these guidelines to ensure an enjoyable camping experience for everyone.
Purpose
Our vision is to create an enriching environment where everyone feels respected and valued. We expect every camper to manifest understanding, responsibility, and respect towards fellow campers, camp property, and the natural environment. By following these guidelines, we can maintain a positive and productive atmosphere throughout the camping experience.
Scope
This Enhanced Code of Conduct is obligatory for all campers, volunteers, and staff participating in Nanny Camp activities and events.
Responsibility to Each Other
In the spirit of community and mutual respect, Nanny Camp fosters an environment where every participant coexists and thrives through understanding, compassion, and respect for each other. Emphasizing the importance of our shared responsibility towards one another, this section explores the expanded principles of Comprehensive Respect, including Inclusivity and Tolerance, and a firm stance against Harassment.
Comprehensive Respect
A Firm Commitment to Respect and Inclusivity
At Nanny Camp, we unequivocally support an environment that prioritizes respect, inclusivity, and diversity. Our commitment is based on recognizing and valuing every individual's identifiers as they choose to express them. These include selected pronouns, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious or personal beliefs, cultural traditions, etc. We believe in a community where everyone feels seen, honored, validated, and appreciated.
Behavioral Expectations
Respect for Personal Identity and Pronouns: Respect for an individual's identified gender, including the use of their chosen pronouns, is non-negotiable. All participants must honor each other's declared gender identity and pronouns. Hostile acts like deliberate misgendering, disregarding or disrespecting an individual's gender or sexual identity are dangerous to our community. They are unacceptable and against our community standards.
Acknowledgment of Individual Beliefs and Practices: Nanny Camp treasures the diversity brought by its members' unique backgrounds, personal, philosophical, and religious beliefs, as well as cultural traditions. Each camper and volunteer must respect all such facets of personal and communal identities. Disparaging comments or refusal to acknowledge an individual’s beliefs, traditions, or personal choices are strictly prohibited.
Promotion of a Welcoming Environment: We all are responsible for building a safe, respectful, and supportive atmosphere at our camp. Every verbal or non-verbal interaction should foster appreciation for our community's varied identities, backgrounds, and experiences.
Intervention and Reporting System: At Nanny Camp, any manifestation of bias, intolerance, or disrespect is unacceptable. If you encounter such an incident, we expect you to report it to any member of our volunteer team or staff. Our commitment to upholding the dignity of all community members guides our approach to swiftly, sensitively, and constructively resolving such incidents.
Nanny Camp believes in creating a space where everyone is free to be their authentic selves, experiencing the joy of community enriched by such incredible diversity. Our all-encompassing code of conduct mirrors this belief, serving as a steadfast guide to maintain the camp as a secure and welcoming place for all.
Harassment
Definition and Scope: Harassment includes any unwelcome conduct that could be reasonably considered as creating a hostile or abusive environment. This encompasses jokes, gestures, physical actions, verbal comments, and digital or written messages that are demeaning, intimidating, or offensive.
Zero Tolerance Policy: Nanny Camp enforces a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment in any form. Based on the severity and nature of the incident, actions that constitute harassment will lead to immediate disciplinary actions, including counseling, mediation, or removal from the camp environment. Any removals from camp will be entirely non-refundable, and campers will be responsible for paying for their transportation away from Nanny Camp.
Non-Retaliation Assurance for Reporters: We appreciate the courage it takes to report incidents of harassment and firmly believe in supporting those who come forward. As part of our commitment, we have implemented a stringent non-retaliation policy designed to provide protection, confidentiality, and an environment of trust for participants making reports. Here's what that involves:
Confidential Reporting Channels: We have set up confidential avenues to report occurrences of harassment, ensuring privacy and discretion for those who take this step.
Non-Retaliation Policy: We guarantee that there will be absolutely no form of retaliation, whether direct or indirect, against anyone who reports harassment. This includes threats, intimidation, reprisals, or unfavorable changes in the reporting individual’s camp activities and interactions.
Transparency: We remain transparent in our response to and handling of harassment reports within the boundaries of respecting confidentiality and the rights of all parties involved. Campers will be routinely updated about the status of their complaints and the steps taken to address them.
Remember, your voice matters. If you see something, say something. By standing up and speaking out, we can all contribute to nurturing a safer and more respectful community at Nanny Camp.
Creating a Culture of Respect
Building a culture of comprehensive respect requires the collective effort of all camp participants. By embracing inclusivity and tolerance and standing firmly against any form of harassment, we can cultivate a camp environment that prioritizes safety, well-being, and mutual respect. Nanny Camp is committed to ongoing dialogue, education, and improvement of our practices to ensure everyone feels welcome and valued.
We encourage all members of our camp community to reflect on their behaviors and attitudes, challenge prejudices and actively contribute to a culture of understanding and empathy. Let us each take responsibility for our actions and their impact on others, striving to create an inclusive and harmonious camp experience for all.
Responsibility to the Earth
At Nanny Camp, we are committed to nurturing a deep respect for the natural world and fostering environmentally sustainable behaviors among our campers and volunteers. Understanding and practicing environmental stewardship is fundamental to the camp's ethos, and we provide guidelines to ensure that our activities and presence harmoniously coexist with nature.
Sustainable Practices
Responsible Resource Consumption
Water Conservation: Use water sparingly. For example, only use the water you need when washing dishes or showering, and avoid letting taps run unnecessarily.
Energy Efficiency: Minimize energy use by turning off lights and electrical equipment when not in use. Embrace natural light during the day.
Minimize Single-Use Plastics: Where possible, use reusable water bottles, utensils, and containers. To reduce waste, avoid using single-use plastics.
Waste Management
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Apply the three R's rigorously. Before disposing of an item, consider whether it can be reused or repurposed. Use the camp's recycling facilities.
Proper Disposal: Waste should be disposed of in designated areas only. This includes separating recyclable materials from general waste according to camp guidelines.
Leave No Trace: Familiarize yourself with and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your ecological footprint. This includes planning and preparing to avoid creating waste, disposing of waste properly, and leaving what you find.
Wildlife Interactions
Maintaining Respectful Distance
Engage in passive observation of wildlife from a distance that does not alter their behavior. Close encounters can stress animals and may lead to dangerous situations.
Avoid approaching, chasing, or picking up wild animals. Respect their space and habits to preserve natural behaviors and ecosystems.
Feeding Wildlife
Do not feed wildlife under any circumstances. Doing so can alter natural behaviors, make them dependent on human-provided food, and potentially endanger their health.
Feeding wildlife can also increase the risk of animal-human conflicts. Animals accustomed to human food may become aggressive or intrusive.
Leave No Trace Principles Specific to Wildlife
Observe Wildlife From a Distance: Respect wildlife and their habitat by keeping a safe distance. Use binoculars for close-up viewing.
No Pets: No pets or animals of any kind are allowed at Nanny Camp.
Avoid Wildlife During Sensitive Times: Be particularly cautious during mating, nesting, and birthing seasons when animals are most vulnerable.
No Smoking. There is no smoking of any type on the grounds of this facility. Anyone who feels it necessary to smoke (cigarettes, marijuana, anything else) must do so off of camp property. Please be sure to extinguish any devices to prevent wildfires.
Encouraging a Culture of Stewardship
Nanny Camp's commitment to environmental stewardship is about more than following rules; it's about cultivating a culture of respect for nature that campers and volunteers carry with them beyond their time at camp. By embracing these principles, participants contribute to the conservation of natural resources and ensure that our natural spaces can be enjoyed by future generations.
We encourage open discussions about environmental responsibility and welcome ideas from campers and staff on further integrating sustainable practices within our camp operations and activities. Through education, practice, and teamwork, we can make a significant impact on preserving the beauty and health of our planet.
Safety and Wellbeing
At Nanny Camp, every camper and staff member's safety, health, and well-being are paramount. We prioritize a holistic approach to safety, recognizing that true security encompasses physical and mental health. Our policies and training ensure a secure and supportive environment for all, fostering a sense of safety that allows for personal growth and fun without compromising health or well-being.
Physical and Mental Health
Holistic Safety Approach: We extend our understanding of safety beyond mere physical protection to include emotional and psychological welfare. Recognizing signs of distress and responding appropriately is a community responsibility.
Emotional Respect and Care: We strictly prohibit emotional abuse, neglect, or disdain toward an individual’s feelings or personal situation. We strive to create a supportive atmosphere where all campers and staff feel valued and understood.
Mental Wellbeing Resources: Access to resources for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges is provided. This includes workshops on mindfulness, stress reduction techniques, and, when necessary, referrals to mental health professionals.
First Aid and Emergency Protocols
First Aid Training: All volunteers and staff are required to undergo First Aid training, ensuring that immediate care can be provided in the event of physical injury or health issues. This training is regularly updated to maintain high levels of readiness and competence.
Emergency Protocols Familiarization: Campers and staff are instructed on emergency protocols, including fire evacuation routes, severe weather procedures, and lockdown processes. Regular drills ensure these protocols are second nature, aiming to foster calm and orderly responses to any emergency.
Accessible Emergency Equipment: Emergency equipment, such as first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and communication devices, are easily accessible throughout the camp. Clear signage and instructions for use are provided, emphasizing our commitment to preparedness and rapid response.
Developing a Culture of Safety and Respect
Safety at Nanny Camp is a collective responsibility. By educating and empowering our campers and staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect both themselves and others; we cultivate a culture of proactive safety and mutual respect. Regular reviews of safety practices and open lines of communication for feedback ensure that our safety measures evolve in line with the needs of our community.
Our commitment to the physical and mental health of our camp community underscores everything we do at Nanny Camp. A safe environment is the foundation of a memorable and enriching camp experience.
Substance and Alcohol Policy
Nanny Camp is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all campers and staff. Substance abuse of any kind poses a significant risk to the health and safety of individuals and the camp community as a whole. To ensure the well-being of everyone, we have strict guidelines regarding the use of substances, including prescription medications and alcohol.
Prescription Medication
Responsible prescription medication use is essential to maintaining the health of those who require such treatments. Our policy is designed to support this need while ensuring the safety and well-being of our camp community.
Medical Guidance Adherence: Individuals who require prescription medication must use them strictly according to the medical advice provided by healthcare professionals. This includes adhering to prescribed dosages and schedules.
No Sharing Policy: Sharing prescription medication is strictly prohibited. Medications are prescribed based on the individual health needs and medical history of the person to whom they are prescribed. Sharing could pose serious health risks.
Medication Disclosure Policy
While Nanny Camp respects your privacy, we highly encourage you to disclose any life-saving medications you might be taking. Sharing such information with our medical staff upon arrival is considered a proactive step towards ensuring your safety.
Rest assured, this disclosure is not an obligatory requirement rather, a suggested step for your well-being. Please remember, any disclosed information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality, solely intended to appropriately assist you in any emergency situations. This approach to openness helps us create a safer environment for you and those around you.
Controlled Alcohol Use with Strict Safety Measures
At Nanny Camp, the controlled consumption of alcohol is allowed, given that it is provided by Nanny Camp (NO BYOB), and the following guidelines are followed. Campers who wish to indulge in alcoholic beverages must adhere to stringent rules and zero-tolerance policies, particularly regarding the use of alcohol near high-risk areas and activities.
Legal Drinking Age Compliance
Only individuals who legally meet the local drinking age guidelines are allowed to consume alcohol at designated events. Proof of age may be requested to enforce this rule strictly.
Responsible Consumption
Alcohol, where allowed, must be consumed responsibly and in moderation. Our camp culture promotes safety and respect for all, which includes responsible behavior and moderation in alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking, leading to inebriation, is strictly prohibited.
Zero Tolerance Areas and Activities
Vital for the safety of our camp community, there is an absolute zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol consumption near the waterfront, around horses, and during archery activities. Additionally, anyone who has consumed alcohol is prohibited from participating in these high-risk activities. These measures are non-negotiable and designed to safeguard everyone at camp.
Immediate Consequences: Violation of this policy will result in immediate disciplinary actions. This includes the revocation of privileges to partake in the mentioned high-risk activities, which, depending on the severity and circumstances, could lead to expulsion from the camp.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Our commitment at Nanny Camp to provide a safe, enjoyable, and enriching environment for all campers and staff is paramount. The policies around alcohol consumption are established to uphold these standards and ensure that every participant enjoys their time without undue risk. Any incidents of non-compliance will be handled promptly to maintain the integrity and safety of our camp experience.
Appropriate Use of Technology
In today's digital age, technology significantly enhances our lives, including the experiences at Nanny Camp. However, with the benefits that technology offers comes the responsibility of using it wisely and ethically. Our technology policy focuses on ensuring that digital devices and social media are used in a manner that respects privacy, promotes safety, and contributes positively to the camp experience.
Digital Conduct
The appropriate use of social media and digital devices is crucial within the Nanny Camp environment. This encompasses a wide range of digital interactions, from social media use to texting and email communication.
Respect for Privacy and Data Protection: All campers and staff are expected to uphold the highest standards of privacy and data protection. This includes not sharing personal information without consent and respecting the privacy settings of others' social media profiles.
Positive Digital Footprint: We encourage a digital footprint that reflects positively on the individual and the camp community. This means sharing content that promotes positive experiences and interactions and refraining from posting anything that could be harmful or offensive to others.
Cyberbullying Prohibition: Cyberbullying, or the use of digital devices to bully, harass, or threaten another individual, is strictly prohibited. Our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment extends to online interactions.
Photography and Filming at Nanny Camp: Consent and Guidelines
Welcome to Nanny Camp, where the magic of our camp experience is often captured through photography and filming. These visuals help encapsulate the joy, learning, and adventure campers enjoy and allow us to share the essence of Nanny Camp with a broader community. By participating in Nanny Camp, you consent to be a part of this experience, which might include being photographed or filmed for use in Nanny Camp's marketing and promotional materials.
Your Consent
Your presence at Nanny Camp indicates your automatic consent to the use of your likeness in photos and videos for future marketing, advertising, or promotional purposes. Here, it's understood that our collective image makes Nanny Camp memorable, and your participation helps us share this story.
Universal Respect for Privacy
At Nanny Camp, respect for individual privacy is paramount. We commit to:
No Photography or Filming in Private Spaces: Adhering strictly to rules that forbid the capture of images or video in sensitive areas where individuals expect privacy. This includes, but is not limited to, changing rooms, bathrooms, sleeping quarters, and any area designated as private.
Inclusive Policy: These rules apply universally to everyone at the camp—campers, staff, and visitors alike—ensuring a consistent standard of privacy for all.
Purpose and Integrity
Our goal in using photography and film is to responsibly and authentically share the experiences within Nanny Camp:
Authentic Representation: We aim to depict the real-life moments that reflect our camp's warmth, fun, and educational environment. The integrity of how we present ourselves to the world is as important as the experiences we provide.
Responsible Sharing: Any content captured at camp and intended for promotional use will be carefully chosen to uphold the spirit of Nanny Camp, align with our values, and maintain the dignity and respect of all depicted individuals.
Nanny Camp’s Pledge
In capturing the essence of camp life through our lenses, we pledge to do so responsibly, ethically, and with respect for the individuals who make up our vibrant camp community. These images and videos become an integral part of Nanny Camp's story and serve as a living celebration of our collective adventures and achievements.
By being part of Nanny Camp, you help us share our narrative of joy, learning, friendship, and growth. We thank you for your participation, which allows others to glimpse the extraordinary world we create here each season.
Respect for Property at Nanny Camp
At Nanny Camp, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming, safe, and nurturing environment for all our campers. Part of the camp experience is learning to respect not only each other but also the physical space we share. We foster an atmosphere of communal responsibility and take pride in our facilities and equipment. To this end, we have established clear guidelines regarding respect for property, outlined below.
Vandalism and its Impact
Vandalism is a serious offense at Nanny Camp. It encompasses any deliberate action that results in damage or disfigurement of camp property. This includes, but is not limited to:
Graffiti: Unauthorized painting, writing, or drawing on camp buildings, signs, or other surfaces.
Destruction: Intentional breaking, damaging, or ruining of camp property, facilities, or natural features.
Defacement: Any act that detracts from the original condition or appearance of an object, including scratching or marking surfaces.
Vandalism not only damages property but can also have a broader impact by:
Disrupting the Camp Experience: Damage to facilities can hinder the full range of activities and experiences available to campers.
Incurring Unnecessary Costs: Repairing or replacing vandalized property can be costly and may divert funds away from other beneficial camp programs.
Affecting Camp Morale: Seeing beloved spaces or items vandalized can dishearten campers and staff, and detract from the sense of community and pride in the camp.
Resource Sharing and Stewardship
At Nanny Camp, many facilities and pieces of equipment are for communal use, and how we treat these shared resources speaks volumes about our respect for our peers and ourselves. Proper stewardship of shared property includes:
Responsible Use: Using facilities and equipment appropriately and following any given instructions for use. This ensures that everyone's equipment remains in good working order.
Cleanliness and Organization: Leaving shared spaces in better condition than you found them. This means cleaning up after yourself and storing equipment properly after use.
Consideration for the Next Person: Acknowledge that other campers will be using the same facilities and equipment, and that we have a communal responsibility to ensure that these resources are maintained.
Accountability and Honesty
At Nanny Camp, we hold accountability and honesty as core principles guiding our actions and interactions. These values are crucial for fostering an atmosphere of trust, respect, and community well-being. By promoting transparency and encouraging the reporting of misconduct, we aim to maintain the integrity of our camp environment and ensure a safe, positive experience for everyone involved.
Transparency
Honest Communications: We emphasize the importance of honesty in all communications within Nanny Camp. This includes interactions between campers, volunteers, and staff alike. Transparent communication reinforces trust and prevents misunderstandings.
Integrity in Actions: Every member of our camp community is expected to act with integrity, not just in what they say but in what they do. This includes being truthful about one's actions and decisions and owning up to mistakes without resorting to misrepresentation or deceit.
Building Trust: Trust is the foundation of a strong community. Through our commitment to honesty, we strive to cultivate a culture where trust flourishes. This means making decisions openly when possible, providing rationales for rules and policies, and being transparent about the expectations of each member of the camp community.
Reporting Misconduct
Responsibility to Report: Campers and volunteers bear a collective responsibility to report any observed breaches of conduct, be it dishonest behavior, breaches of camp rules, or actions that compromise the safety and well-being of individuals and the camp community.
Safe Reporting Channels: Nanny Camp ensures confidential avenues for reporting misconduct are available and accessible to all campers and volunteers. These channels are designed to protect the identity of the reporter and encourage openness without fear of reprisal or retaliation.
Protection Against Retaliation: We firmly uphold a non-retaliation policy. This means any individual who reports in good faith a suspicion of misconduct or participates in an investigation will not face any form of retaliation. We recognize the courage it takes to step forward and are committed to supporting those who do.
Prompt and Fair Investigation: Reports of misconduct will be met with prompt, thorough, and fair investigation. Measures will be taken in accordance with the severity of the offense, ensuring accountability and maintaining the integrity and safety of the camp environment.
Fostering a Culture of Accountability
Nanny Camp is committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability and honesty. By setting clear expectations, providing education on the importance of these values, and implementing systems that support transparency and the protected reporting of misconduct, we create a culture where every member understands their role in maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of our community.
Our commitment to these principles is unwavering, as we believe they are essential for building a supportive environment where all campers and staff can feel secure, respected, and valued.
Reporting and Support
How to Report
If you encounter or witness any behavior that contradicts our Enhanced Code of Conduct – including but not limited to disrespect of property, bullying, or any form of harassment – we strongly encourage you to report it to camp organizers. Here’s how:
Direct Reporting: Approach any Camp Staff directly. They are trained to handle these reports with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Anonymous Feedback at Nanny Camp: In order to provide a safe space where all campers feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns, Nanny Camp offers an Anonymous Feedback Suggestion Box. This box is available for anyone who wishes to provide feedback without disclosing their identity.
The Suggestion Box
Location: You can find the Suggestion Box located conveniently outside the canteen/camp store.
Anonymity: If you prefer to keep your feedback anonymous, feel free to use the box for this purpose. Whether it’s a concern that you feel needs to be voiced or a suggestion for improving the camp, we respect and uphold your desire for privacy.
Accessibility: The Suggestion Box is accessible at any time, ensuring that you have the opportunity to share your thoughts as they arise.
We encourage our campers to use this box as a way to communicate openly with camp management. All submissions are reviewed carefully and contribute to our continuous efforts to enhance the Nanny Camp experience.
