Discipline Standard
Discipline is carried out in a way that helps children develop self-control and assume responsibility for their own behavior. We encourage children to solve their own conflicts. When necessary, staff assists children in understanding each other’s actions. We make every effort to assist the child in correcting any unacceptable behavior through re-direction, reminders of expected behavior, time-outs, and parent conferences. Our approach focuses on positive reinforcement; staff act in a manner that is kind and caring, yet firm.
A time-out is given with a Time-out Worksheet or verbal warning.
- If the negative behavior continues after multiple time-outs or warnings, a written Conduct Report is filed with the Lead Counselor and parents.
- A Conduct Report may be issued immediately, without warnings or time-outs, for any serious infractions including physical/emotional harm to a camper or staff, destruction of property, and any major safety concerns.
- Staff works with the child and parent to correct behavior. Parents are required to sign the Conduct Report which remains in the child’s file.
- On the occurrence of a third Conduct Report, the child is suspended for a minimum of one day, or more, depending on the severity of the infraction.
- Suspension may be effective immediately, without three conduct reports, depending upon the severity of the infraction. On a case by case basis, staff may authorize a delayed start to a suspension for up to 48 hours following the infraction.
- If upon return, inappropriate behavior continues, or three additional Conduct Reports are issued, staff may permanently suspend the child. Future participation is determined by the Carol Stream Park District on a case by case basis.
- Refunds and prorations are not issued for suspensions.
The Carol Stream Park District reserves the right to immediately and permanently suspend a participant for serious infractions.
Code of Conduct
Participants, parents, and guardians are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times. The following standards have been established for the benefit of our programs as a whole. The safety, structure, and integrity of the program take priority over those of any one individual. Behavior guidelines are not limited to, but are based on, the following overall rules and apply to all participants. The term “participant” is henceforth be used to represent children, parents, and guardians.
- Participants must show respect to all other participants, staff, property, equipment, and facilities.
- Participants must follow the directive of staff and all program-specific rules.
- Participants may not harass, bully, or intimidate through the use of words, foul language, gestures, body language, phones, texting or other devices, social media, or menacing behavior.
- Participants must refrain from threatening, spitting, or causing physical harm to other participants and staff.
- Participants may not place themselves or others in dangerous situations through their actions or behavior.
- Participants may not possess weapons, devices that may be used as a weapon, or illegal substances.
- Participants may not demonstrate any sexual suggestiveness or sexual activity.
- Parents/Guardians may not instruct their children to disregard the staff’s directions or to respond physically with violent or threatening behavior or language.
- Parents/Guardians may not direct, discipline, or instruct children other than their own.
- Staff reserve the right to dismiss, suspend, or ban any individual who represents a risk or danger from program premises (including buildings, parking lots, playgrounds, and surrounding areas).
- Participants must keep track of their own belongings. Staff is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings including backpacks, glasses, towels, toys, cell phones, etc.
Zero Tolerance Policy: Bullying, verbal and physical abuse, threats, and disrespect are not tolerated. Participants are held accountable for their actions in compliance with the Carol Stream Park District Code of Conduct. All threats or threatening behavior is taken seriously and are reported to the authorities. Participants using threats of death, violence, or suicide are immediately suspended and are required to undergo a professional safety evaluation at their own expense. The participant may be eligible to return to the program upon approval of the Carol Stream Park District and receipt of said evaluation stating that the participant is not at risk to themselves or others. If a second Zero Tolerance Violation occurs, future participation will be determined by the CSPD on a case by case basis.