Did You Know?

Did you send your kids to camp this year? You have released the camp from liability for your child. Unless the camp has acted negligently (we’re talking: unsafe, unsupervised, and unsanctioned play), then your child is truly the author of his/her own time at camp.  Camp activities carried out in a safe and supervised location often mean that your child’s independence will dictate their health and safety.

You have obligations you likely have no idea about. Your child’s safety begins at home. Your child should know basic safety rules, have set boundaries for play, and be able to differentiate “right from wrong” with their decision making. Camps are set with specific age groups in mind; a child’s ability to self-determine their decisions and activity mean that you, as the parent, have an obligation to teach them about danger and instill good decision-making skills. 

Be mindful of the next time that you sign a waiver, and don’t hesitate to ask questions, or discuss/dispute the content of a ‘standard form’ release. 

You can’t decline, once you’ve signed on the dotted line.