St. Paul's Policies for Children and Youth, adopted July 18, 2005

Policies are in keeping with the Episcopal Diocese of Colorado’s

“Policies for Parish Ministries with Children or Youth” dated September 21, 2004

These standards apply to all St. Paul’s sponsored activities and include, but are not limited to, regular worship times, Sunday School, nursery, childcare, youth group, camps, retreats, and babysitting.

1. St. Paul’s church workers who regularly work with children or youth have attended required “Safeguarding God’s Children” training and have undergone background and reference checks.

2. No form of physical discipline by church workers is ever acceptable. Physical restraint may only be used to stop a behavior that may cause immediate harm to the individual or to a child, youth or others.

3. Smoking is not permitted inside any of St. Paul’s buildings or at any St. Paul’s sponsored activities with children or youth.

4. All children and youth (ages 0-15) must be supervised by (within sight of) a parent/guardian or 2 adult church workers at all times while on church premises.

5. A parent/guardian must check children and youth (ages 0 to 15) in and out with adult church workers.

6. Any child/youth not checked in with staff by a parent/guardian is not being supervised and will not be admitted to the room or activity.

7. Children under 5 years old will be released only to their parents/legal guardians or those designated by them in writing.

8. Each program for youth and children will develop age-appropriate procedures to ensure the safety of children and youth using restrooms, showers, or baths.

9. Every St. Paul’s activity for children or youth is an open event. Clergy, parents, church staff members and parishioners are always welcome to observe any event at any time.