Program Policies

Program Policies

Registration and General Questions

• Review Before Registering:

  • Please review our program policies before signing up for any classes. Contact us if you have questions or need clarification.

Code of Conduct

• At Willowdale, we value a supportive and respectful community where children, guides, and teachers can explore and learn together.

• Child-Led Learning: We follow the child’s lead, allowing them to engage at their own pace and comfort level. Guides and teachers will provide gentle encouragement while respecting each child's autonomy.

• Respect for Others: All participants—both children and adults—are expected to communicate and interact with kindness and respect. We do not tolerate harmful language, exclusion, or any form of discrimination.

• Respect for Nature: We teach children to care for the environment by exploring responsibly, treating living things with care, and leaving natural spaces as we found them.

• Safe and Supportive Play: Risk-taking is encouraged in a way that supports learning and development. Guides should step in if safety becomes a concern while allowing children the opportunity to assess and navigate challenges independently.

• Conflict Resolution: Disagreements and frustrations are natural. We encourage peaceful conflict resolution by guiding children toward solutions that respect everyone's feelings and needs.

• If concerns arise regarding conduct, we will work together with families to ensure a positive and inclusive environment for all.

Age Range and Class Format

• Our program is designed for children ages 1.5 to 8 years. Children younger or older than this range are welcome to enroll at the parent or guardian’s discretion. All classes are mixed-age, and mobility is not a requirement for participation.

• Sibling Enrollment: Siblings over 1.5 years must enroll in the class. However, if a sibling needs to attend a session due to a scheduling change (e.g., a day off from school), they may attend one session without enrolling. Please notify the guide in advance so that any necessary materials can be prepared.

Class Trials

• When classes aren’t full, families are welcome to try a session before committing to a full season. The drop-in rate is specified on the registration form, and there is no obligation to enroll for the entire season.

Refunds and Credits

• Before the Season: Request a refund before the season starts, and you'll receive a credit equal to your payment.

• After the Season Begins: Request a refund after the season starts, and you'll get a credit for all remaining sessions.

• Missed Sessions: No credits or refunds are provided for sessions missed due to scheduling conflicts or illness.

• Teacher-Canceled Sessions: If more than two sessions are canceled by the teacher without rescheduling, you'll receive a prorated class credit.

• Rescheduled Pop-Up Classes: If a pop-up class is rescheduled and you cannot attend the new date, or if it's cancelled, you'll receive a class credit.

Referrals

• Referral Credit: If you refer a friend who registers for a full season, you will receive a $25 class credit.

Pricing and Payment

• Pricing Structure:

  • The standard full-season price varies by season.

  • When applicable, the drop-in fee will apply.

• Payment Terms: Payment must be made in full at the time of registration to secure your spot unless payment options are available through our registration system. We cannot accept cash.

Scholarships

• Scholarship Availability: Scholarships are limited and not guaranteed as we continue to seek grant opportunities to offer free or reduced-cost classes.

• Contact for Scholarship Insight: If you have suggestions or insight on funding opportunities, please email us at willowdalenh@gmail.com.

Inclement Weather

• Weather Cancellation Guidelines: Classes may be cancelled if:

  • Wind gusts are expected to be 25-30 mph or higher.

  • Freezing rain is forecast.

  • Temperatures (including wind chill) are below 17°F.

  • The Manchester School District cancels school due to unsafe road conditions.

• Notification: The teacher will notify families at least 90 minutes before class via email and/or text message.

• Rescheduling: If possible, the session will be rescheduled within the same week. Note that the season schedule may be adjusted by one week.

Creating a Safe Learning Environment

• Supervision: Each child (explorer) is accompanied by an adult (guide) during class. Teachers support guides and ensure a safe environment for risk-taking.

• First Aid: Teachers carry a First Aid Kit that is available for use by guides if needed.

• Safety Rules:

  • Explorers may explore independently as long as they remain visible or audible to their guide or teacher.

  • Guides check in with children engaging in physical play to ensure they feel secure.

  • Risky play is encouraged, but guides will provide redirection if safety is compromised (e.g., maintaining space when using sticks).

  • Explorers are discouraged from putting natural objects in their mouths. If this occurs, we work with the guide to manage the situation safely.

Health and COVID-19 Safety

• Before Class: All participants, including teachers, should self-assess symptoms of COVID-19 or other illnesses and decide whether it is safe to attend class. Please follow current CDC quarantine guidelines, stay home and rest!

Snacks and Beverages

• Consumption Policy: Snacks and beverages are allowed. Please be mindful of others’ space, especially if there are allergies or sensitivities.

Insurance and Teacher Certifications

• Insurance: Willowdale NH is insured by Thimble, and both class locations are listed as Additional Insureds.

• Teacher Certifications: All teachers are First Aid/CPR certified. You can view their credentials here.

Communications

• Consent to Communicate: By registering for a class, you agree to receive email and marketing communications from us.

• Emergency Information: Please ensure that your contact information and emergency contact details are up-to-date in our registration system.

• Policy Changes: Our policies are subject to change. We will notify registered families of any significant updates in advance.

Photography & Media Release

• Families can choose to opt in or out of media release during registration.

• Opted-In: Photos and videos may be taken during class and used for promotional purposes, including social media and marketing materials.

• Opted-Out: No photos or videos of your child will be shared.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Respect

• We are a progressive, secular and LGBTQIA+ affirming program.

• We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

• We celebrate our differences and the unique perspectives each person brings.

• We kindly ask that all members of our community communicate respectfully and refrain from any language or behavior that targets or marginalizes others.

• If you experience or witness behavior that does not align with these values, please let us know.