AfriLead EduTourism Network (ALEN) Child Protection Policy

1.  Purpose Statement

The AfriLead EduTourism Network (ALEN) is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for children participating in its programs and activities. This policy aims to:

  • Safeguard children from harm.
  • Provide staff and volunteers with clear guidance on preventing and addressing incidents of abuse or neglect.

2.  Providing a Safe Environment and Adequate Supervision

To ensure a secure environment and proper oversight of children, ALEN enforces the following measures:

Supervision and Accountability

  • At least two approved staff or volunteers must be present with children during all programs and activities.
  • One of these individuals must be an adult (18 years or older).
  • Staff or volunteers must remain until all children have been returned to their parent/ guardian.

Check-In/Check-Out Procedures

  • Parents/ guardians must check children in and out of activities.
  • Identification tags will be issued at check-in and must be presented for pick-up.
  • Preschool children will receive nametags that include allergy information.

Physical Contact

  • Physical contact with children must be gentle, appropriate, and respectful of the child’s boundaries.
  • Children have the right to refuse physical contact.

Discipline Policy

  • No physical discipline (e.g., hitting, slapping) is permitted.
  • Behavior correction should involve redirection or verbal guidance.

Bathroom Assistance

  • Adults accompanying children to the restroom must ensure restrooms are free of non-participants before entry and remain outside the door during use.
  • If assistance is required, the door must remain open while help is provided.

Snack and Allergy Policy

  • All program areas are nut-free zones.
  • Staff and volunteers must confirm that snacks are free from nuts or nut-based products.

Accidents, First Aid, and Incident Reporting

  • Staff and volunteers may administer minor first aid (e.g., for cuts or bruises) using gloves when handling blood.
  • Serious injuries should be stabilized, and a supervisor notified immediately.
  • An Incident Report Form must be completed and submitted to the Secretary General for all injuries.

Staff and Volunteer Breaks

  • In situations of frustration or anger, staff should notify a supervisor and request a break. Classes may be combined temporarily to ensure continued supervision.

3.  Recognizing Suspected Child Abuse

Staff   and   volunteers    must    be    trained   to    recognize    and   report    suspected abuse. Categories of Child Abuse include:

  • Bodily injury.
  • Serious mental injury. 
  • Sexual abuse or exploitation.
  • Serious physical neglect.
  • Medical child abuse (e.g., Munchausen by Proxy).
  • Situations of endangerment or exposure to harmful environments, such as meth labs or the presence of a sexual offender.

Mandated Reporter Training

  • Staff and volunteers will undergo biannual in-person training.
  • New team members must complete online training if in-person sessions are unavailable before commencing their roles.

4.  Reporting Suspected Child Abuse

Mandated     reporters      are      legally      required     to     report     suspected     abuse immediately. Reporting Steps include:

a)      Immediate Action:
  • Report concerns to the ALEN Secretary General at +1 (202) 702-4211.
  • Alternatively, mandated reporters may file a report online via ALEN’s designated platform.
b)      Documentation:
  • Submit a completed Report of Suspected Child Abuse (CY47) form to the investigating agency within 48 hours.
c)      Follow-Up:
  • Inform the Secretary General of the report for record-keeping and further assistance.

5.  Staff and Volunteer Screening

All individuals working with children are subject to the following selection process:

Application Process

  • Applicants must complete and sign a written application form detailing their experience, references, and disclosure of criminal convictions.

Background Checks

  1. Mandatory Checks:
    • Criminal history report.
    • Child Abuse History Certification from the Respective Depertments.

      2. Volunteers in unpaid roles may waive some certifications by affirming in writing that they meet eligibility criteria.

Interview Process

  • Applicants will undergo a face-to-face interview to assess their suitability for the role.

– For questions or to report a concern, please contact:

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