Screen and Device Policy

At The Ohmapi Nature Project class time is focused on connecting to meaningful experiences in nature. Although screens and devices connect us to one another from afar, they almost always disconnect us from the natural world and those who are enjoying the moment with us. Therefore, we do not allow the use of devices with screens or devices with the ability to connect to a cell tower/the internet. Our team carries cell phones with them in the event you need to reach your child or if we need to reach you. Devices may be brought to class but must be powered off and kept in your child’s backpack during class time.

Our Behavior Code

Treat one another and the Earth with love, respect and kindness.

The foundation of the guidance and discipline policy at The Ohmapi Nature Project is to encourage positive behavior in the individual which will support a positive experience for everyone. We believe all people want to feel a sense of belonging; they want to feel important and included. Youth need and desire positive attention from the adults and peers around them; however, when they do not gain positive attention, they sometimes seek negative attention. All behavior is a form of communication. It is our job, as mentors, to understand our students needs and to teach them appropriate ways of getting their needs met.

We encourage students to find the limits of the natural world by learning from the wild and from each other. We establish safety limits and allow freedom within those boundaries to develop self-regulation. True discipline comes from within. Through compassionate conversation and community building, children balance independence with accountability to their community and the natural world. When a child is consistently crossing necessary safety boundaries, we work with them and their parents to find positive solutions that take into account the needs of the whole group.

We put our greatest effort in preventing inappropriate behavior. The Ohmapi Nature Project provides a supportive and nurturing environment where non-violent communication from everyone is valued and encouraged. We create an environment where positive behavior is reinforced and where inappropriate behavior is not necessary. We remind students to use words to express what they want, what they need, and how they feel. We guide them to treat themselves and others with respect.

Even when all preventative measures have been put in place to encourage positive behavior, students will sometimes test the limits. Our response to inappropriate or negative behavior may include: redirecting the student’s activity, ignoring attention seeking behavior, discussing the situation with the student, and/or using firm, clear and concise language to instruct the student as to a more positive way to express her/himself. In situations when a student is having difficulty changing her/his behavior, and the above techniques have been unsuccessful, the staff will use a logical consequence. This may include removing her/him from the situation for a brief period of time. The teacher would then explain to the child what is expected in order to rejoin the activity.