Crystal Springs Camp

Child Protection Policy Field Guide

Purpose

Crystal Springs is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and Christ-centered environment for every camper, staff member, volunteer, and guest. These policies exist to protect children, youth, and adults while encouraging spiritual growth and healthy community.

All staff and volunteers share responsibility for maintaining a safe camp environment.

Core Safety Standards

Two Adult Rule

• At least two adults should be present during activities, supervision, transportation, and overnight situations whenever possible.

• Small groups may operate with one adult only if groups remain within sight of one another or in their assigned location.

• No adult should ever be alone with a camper intentionally.

Age Guidelines

• Adult supervisors should generally be at least 4–5 years older than the oldest participant.

• Staff under that age may assist only under adult supervision and may not have authority over campers.

Visibility

• Doors should remain open when practical.

• One-on-one conversations should happen in visible public areas such as pavilions, dining halls, or outdoor spaces.

Camper Supervision

Cabin Expectations

• Male and female campers must have separate sleeping areas.

• Staff should maintain appropriate supervision throughout the night.

Shower and Changing Areas

• Adults and campers should not shower or change within sight of one another.

• Even in the bathhouse, all adults should change in a shower or toilet stall.

• Adult nudity in the presence of campers is not acceptable in any scenario.

Ratios

minimum supervision ratio:

• 2 adults for every 24 campers

This applies to:

• Activities

• Recreation

• Worship gatherings

• Swim time

Swim Time

• At least two staff members must be present during swim time.

• Staff are expected to actively supervise campers at all times.

• Emergency equipment and access to assistance should remain available.

Camp Access and Attendance

Arrival

Parents/guardians should:

• Sign campers in

• Provide information regarding medications or medical needs

• Confirm approved emergency contacts

Closed Camp Policy

Crystal Springs operates as a closed camp.

• Campers may not leave camp after arrival without approval from the Directors.

• Visitors or guests are not permitted unless approved by the Directors.

Medical and Emergency Procedures

Camp Nurse

• The camp nurse is available to assist with medical needs and emergencies.

• Campers may keep and manage medications unless otherwise requested by parents or staff.

• The nurse may assist with medication distribution when requested by campers or parents.

Emergencies

• Notify one of the Directors immediately.

• In serious emergencies, emergency services will be contacted.

• If transportation to medical care is needed, two adults should accompany the camper whenever possible.

Evacuation

• Emergency procedures and gathering locations should be reviewed with campers at the beginning of camp.

Staff and Volunteer Expectations

All staff and volunteers must:

• Read and sign the Crystal Springs Child Protection Policy

• Abide by all camp rules and policies

• Maintain appropriate boundaries with campers

Background checks are required for staff members who are not already employed and screened by a Cumberland Presbyterian church.

Reporting Concerns or Abuse

Mandatory Reporting

Any suspected abuse, neglect, or misconduct must be reported immediately.

Reports should be made to:

1. Tennessee Department of Children’s Services

2. One of the Camp Directors

If an allegation involves one Director, the other Director should be contacted immediately.

Immediate Response

When concerns arise:

• Protect the camper first

• Remove the accused person from camper contact until resolved

• Cooperate fully with investigations

All allegations are taken seriously.

Conduct Expectations

Staff and volunteers should:

• Maintain healthy physical and emotional boundaries

• Avoid isolated situations whenever possible

• Use appropriate language and behavior

• Avoid favoritism

• Model Christlike conduct at all times

Definitions

Child or Youth

Any person under 18 years old.

Adult

Any person 18 years or older.

Abuse

Includes:

• Physical abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Neglect

Tennessee law requires all persons to report suspected child abuse or neglect.

Annual Review

This policy should be reviewed regularly by camp leadership to ensure safety practices remain current and effective.