Policies

OUR POLICIES: TERMS & CONDITIONS

By completing your purchase, you accept and agree to the terms and conditions outlined below and authorize us to charge the amounts indicated in the registration field to the credit card you have provided.

 

For the full set of public policies, please inquire by email to info@beachessandbox.com

 

CANCELLATION POLICY: PRIVATE EVENTS

We will credit or transfer your booking (based on availability), if cancelled 14 days prior to the event. Anytime after 14 days, refunds or transfers will not be extended. To cancel or postpone, please email info@beachessandbox.com at least 14 days before the booking date. A $25 administration fee will be applied for cancellations.

In the event of a COVID-19 emergency lockdown, refunds or credit will be given. Credit can be used to secure a future date.

 

ARTWORK STATUS

Our policy is to hold completed artwork for 1 week. Please pick up the completed artwork within this time frame. We do our best to hold on to each masterpiece as long as possible, however our space is limited. Artwork can be picked up at Beaches Sandbox: Monday – Friday 4:00 pm- 6:30 pm or Saturdays 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.

 

ART WAIVER

By participating in an art class at Beaches Sandbox, and submitting your artwork with us in person, or sharing your artwork on your social media account and tagging Beaches.

Sandbox, you consent to have your artwork and/or your child’s artwork used by Beaches Sandbox on our website, social media accounts, print advertising or other

promotional materials. We will credit the artist where possible.

​

HEALTH AND SAFETY 

If either you or your child have any food allergies, you agree to call and discuss this with us prior to attending any classes or camps.

 

COVID PROTOCOL

• All our staff and volunteers are fully vaccinated.

• Students, staff and volunteers are checked-in upon entrance with screening questions previously emailed Attestation Forms and temperature reads.

• Masks are to be always worn in the centre, other than when eating and drinking

• We maximize physical distancing.

• Reminders will be regularly provided for the students regarding sanitization, social distancing, wearing masks, etc.

• Our building offers a high-grade ventilation system, installed with our full restoration and renovation in 2021.

• Surfaces and objects are regularly sanitized to prevent the risk of transmission. 

• In the case where there is a potential or suspected case of COVID-19, we will follow up with those that may have been exposed according to Toronto Public Health guidelines.

• If an instructor or staff member observes signs of illness in a child, parents will be contacted immediately to pick up.

• If an instructor is feeling ill, we will cancel the class with as much notice as possible and a credit or make up class will be applied.

 

RELEASE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISK

As a condition of and in consideration of Beaches Sandbox allowing you to participate in one of its cooking classes, you agree as follows: I fully understand and acknowledge that: (a) cooking classes have inherent risks, dangers and hazards and these exist in my participation in the classes; (b) my participation or the participation of my child/ward in the classes may result in injury, illness or harm to me, my child/ward or others; (c) these risks and dangers may be caused by the negligence of the operators, owners, employees, officers, representatives or agents of Beaches Sandbox the negligence of the other participants, the negligence of others, accidents, breaches of contract, the forces of nature or other causes; and (d) by participating in the classes, I assume all risks and dangers and all responsibility for any losses and/or damages, whether caused in whole or in part by the negligence, acts or omissions or other conduct of the owners, agents, officers, representatives or employees of Beaches Sandbox, or by any other person.

​

On behalf of myself, my personal representatives and my heirs, I hereby voluntarily release, waive, discharge, hold harmless, and agree to defend and indemnify Beaches Sandbox, its affiliates and each of their respective agents, shareholders, officers, directors representatives and employees (collectively the “Indemnitees”) from any and all claims, actions or losses for bodily injury, property damage, wrongful death, harm, illness, loss of Services or otherwise which may arise out of my participation or the participation of my child/ward in the classes. I further agree to indemnify and hold the Indemnitees harmless in respect of any claims arising in connection with the classes made by: a) third parties, which arise from the misconduct of the participants or Indemnitees; b) my family members, or dependents of heirs, c) third parties or friends, and each of their family member or dependents of heirs which I, or my estate, have sued, if damages are recovered from such third parties, to the extent the third party obtains any indemnification from Beaches Sandbox; except where the loss, injury, death or damage is caused by the reckless or fraudulent conduct on the part of the Indemnitees.

 

RESPONSIBILITY

You agree that Beaches Sandbox is not responsible for any expense or liability resulting from cancellation or interruptions of the classes, labor disputes, war, acts of terrorism, government restraints, weather conditions, sickness, and pilferage or any other cause or reason beyond its control. Beaches Sandbox reserves the right to cancel any class if circumstances so demand. In the event a class is cancelled, Beaches Sandbox will attempt to reschedule such class.

 

LAW AND FORTUM DISPUTES 

You agree that any claim or dispute you may have against Beaches Sandbox must be resolved by a court located in Ontario, Canada. You agree to submit to the personal jurisdiction of the courts located Toronto Ontario, Canada, the purpose of litigating all such claims or disputes. This Contract shall be governed in all respects by the laws of Ontario, Canada.

​

NO WAIVER

Our failure to act with respect to a breach by you or others does not waive our right to act with respect to subsequent or similar breaches.

 

LIABILITY

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, you agree that Beaches Sandbox entire liability to you, regardless of whether your claim is based in negligence, contract or tort, will be limited to the fees you paid for the class and  Beaches Sandbox will not be liable for any, reliance, special, indirect, incidental, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages of any kind including but not limited to, lost profits, lost revenues, lost savings, lost business opportunity, lost data, business interruption, or unmet expectations (whether foreseeable or not), arising out of or in connection with this Contract.

 

ANTI-BIAS POLICY

At Beaches Sandbox, our commitment to anti-bias practices extends to all participants, including staff, volunteers, parents, and board members. We strive to reflect the multiculturalism of our community in our hiring practices and program development. Our procedures align with non-discriminatory standards set forth by leading organizations such as the Ontario Human Rights Code, The United Way, and Toronto Children’s Services.

To achieve our goals, we engage in community outreach, provide ongoing education to participants, and ensure staff awareness of evolving policies in this area. Our programs prioritize respect for cultural, racial, linguistic, and ability diversity, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are actively shared and celebrated. We actively work to dismantle systemic barriers and foster positive race relations and attitudinal change.

 

Our anti-bias policy is reinforced through the following practices:

• Wholehearted commitment from board members, staff, participants, and parents

• Regular review of programs, policies, and practices to identify and eliminate biases.

• Comprehensive training for all center participants.

• Continuous monitoring of implementation through participant and parent surveys.

 

Beaches Sandbox staff are trained to foster a safe, caring environment free from harassment and bullying for all participants. Intervention strategies are positive, supportive, consistent, and proactive. Individuals are encouraged to speak with the centre’s staff and report any harassment, bullying, inappropriate, disrespectful, or harmful behaviours. Staff may use their discretion and reserve the right to excuse any individual from the class or the building for not adhering to appropriate behavior standards.

 

Discriminatory or racist incidents from any participant, parent, volunteer, or staff member are unequivocally prohibited at Beaches Sandbox. We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, ethnicity, culture, ability, sexual orientation, or religion in any form. Incidents of bias, whether intentional or unintentional, verbal or non-verbal, are addressed promptly and firmly.

 

STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOUR

Participants are expected to:

• Respect the rights of others and treat each other with dignity.

• Care for the center’s property and the belongings of others.

• Demonstrate full engagement and effort during all program activities.

 

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOURS

• The following behaviors are considered inappropriate and are strictly prohibited:

• Any form of discrimination based on economic status, race, religion, or gender.

• Any manifestation of violent behavior, whether physical or verbal, intended to harm another individual.

• Making derogatory or hateful comments toward any individual.

• Threatening an individual or their property.

• Use of language that is violent or profane.

 

The management and staff of Beaches Sandbox are committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all participants and will promptly intervene in the event of bullying or other behavioral misconduct.

 

DEFINITION OF BULLYING

Bullying encompasses aggressive and repeated behavior (physical, verbal, electronic, written, or other means) by a participant, intended or likely to cause harm, fear, or distress to another individual. It occurs within a context of perceived power imbalance and may include cyber-bullying through electronic means.

​

In the event of policy violations, Beaches Sandbox reserves the right to suspend offending participants from the program, particularly in cases where there is a clear and present danger to the safety of others. Parents/guardians will be promptly notified by telephone to pick up their child.

 

INAPPROPRIATE OR UNWELCOME CONDUCT

Harassment encompasses objectionable conduct, comments, or displays that demean, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment to others. Examples include unnecessary physical contact, verbal abuse, unwelcome remarks, displaying offensive materials, and inappropriate photography. Harassment can occur among any individuals at the center and may overlap with issues of equal opportunity, abuse of power, racial bias, or other forms of discrimination.

​

By enforcing this policy, Beaches Sandbox ensures a supportive and respectful environment for all participants, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

​

If you believe you are experiencing discrimination or harassment, you should promptly communicate to the alleged perpetrator that their behavior is unwelcome and inappropriate. If the issue is resolved satisfactorily at this stage, no further action is necessary. However, if the matter remains unresolved or if you have concerns about your well-being, please request an incident report form immediately from the front desk or info@beachessandbox.com. Fill out the form and send it to feedback@beachessandbox.com to start an investigation.

​

SMOKE AND VAPE FREE POLICY 

Our Smoke and Vape Free Policy encompasses a complete prohibition of smoking and vaping within the center at all times, irrespective of the presence of children. Any refusal to comply constitutes a violation of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. It is essential for all individuals on-site to be informed of this policy, with further inquiries directed to the local health department. Prior to employment commencement for staff and volunteers, as well as before enrolling children for parents, a thorough review of this policy is conducted. Failure to adhere may result in termination of services or employment.

​

SOCIAL MEDIA

The Beaches Sandbox social media policy aims to foster a positive and respectful online community that reflects our values and mission.

​

Guidelines:

• Respectful Communication: All interactions on social media should be respectful and considerate. Harassment, hate speech, and inappropriate content will not be tolerated.

• Privacy Protection: Protect your own privacy and the privacy of others. Do not share personal information without consent.

• Positive Engagement: Use social media to share positive experiences, upcoming events, and constructive feedback. Promote a welcoming and inclusive environment.

• Representation: Only authorized personnel may post on behalf of Beaches Sandbox. Personal opinions should be clearly stated as such.

• Content Sharing: Share accurate and relevant information. Ensure any content shared is not copyrighted unless permission is granted.

• Conflict Resolution: Address any conflicts or negative feedback privately and professionally. Escalate issues to management if necessary.

• Compliance: Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in removal of content or disciplinary action. Let’s work together to maintain a positive and engaging online presence for Beaches Sandbox.

 

PROHIBITED PRACTICES POLICY

The cornerstone of Beaches Sandbox's approach is to foster positive experiences and interactions while guiding children towards appropriate behavior. To uphold this commitment, we strictly prohibit the following practices:

• Corporal Punishment: Under no circumstances shall any form of physical punishment be used on a child.

• Physical Restraint: Children shall not be physically restrained unless necessary to prevent harm, and even then, it must be a last resort and only temporary.

• Locking Exits: Exit doors shall never be locked to confine a child, except in genuine emergency situations as outlined in our emergency management policies.

• Harsh Language or Measures: Any use of derogatory language, threats, or harsh actions that undermine a child's dignity, self-respect, or self-worth is strictly prohibited.

• Deprivation of Basic Needs: Children must never be deprived of fundamental necessities such as food, drink, shelter, toilet use, clothing, or bedding.

• Inflicting Bodily Harm: No action that causes bodily harm to children, including force-feeding, will be tolerated under any circumstance. (Reference: O.Reg. 126/16, s.34)

 

Observations or reports of the use of prohibited practices will be reported to child welfare authorities.

​

TAKING PICTURES OR FILMING DURING PROGRAMS 

The Beaches Sandbox understands the desire to capture special memories during programs through filming and photography. To maintain a distraction-free environment and protect the privacy, safety, accessibility, and comfort of all participants, the following guidelines are in place:

• Speak to a staff person or program facilitator before photographing or filming.

• Only take pictures of yourself or participants in your personal care, trying to limit or eliminate background individuals.

• Occasionally, photos or videos may be taken for Beaches Sandbox promotions and social media. Caregivers may be asked to complete a Multimedia Consent Form and return it to staff, or it may be included as part of a program waiver.

• Using electronic or photographic devices is not allowed in washrooms.

• At Beaches Sandbox, we value connection within the community. While enjoying our programs, we encourage a screen-free experience.

• Staff and program facilitators reserve the right to ask individuals to leave or cease photographing or recording if actions deviate from established policies or compromise the well-being of others.

 

PARTICIPANT BEHAVIOUR STANDARDS AND RIGHT TO EXCUSE 

To maintain a welcoming, safe, and comfortable environment, the Beaches Sandbox board, staff, and program instructors retain the right to excuse any individual from the building and/or its programs at their discretion. Individuals are encouraged to speak with the centre’s staff and report any incidents that seem suspicious, disrespectful, or harmful. Individuals engaging in suspicious, disrespectful, or harmful activities may face suspension or a ban from the class or the facility.

 

HEALTH AND WELLNESS GUIDELINES 

At Beaches Sandbox, we value the well-being of our community members. While masks are not obligatory within the building, we kindly urge individuals who feel unwell to stay home temporarily and plan a visit when they are feeling better. If you are on the path to recovery but still displaying symptoms, we request that you consider wearing a mask to safeguard both yourself and others. Hand sanitizer stations are conveniently placed at the entrance of each floor within the building, promoting hand hygiene and reducing the potential spread of germs.

 

Everyone is encouraged to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and maintain the overall health of our community. Cooperation in adhering to these guidelines contributes to a harmonious and health-conscious environment for all Beaches Sandbox visitors and staff.

 

Participants may be restricted from a program if they have contracted a contagious illness or a health condition that could affect the health and safety of others or could have negative implications for their own health and safety. If you are feeling unwell, please stay home. If you are on the road to recovery, please consider wearing a mask, if appropriate.

 

EQUIPMENT CLEANING AND ILLNESS PREVENTION

Staff are trained to regularly clean and disinfect equipment and toys that are susceptible to contamination or have been contaminated on a daily basis, as well as a weekly and monthly deeper cleaning.

 

CLOTHING AND SHOE POLICY

Beaches Sandbox is not responsible for any lost or stolen belongings and asks that all belongings are labeled with the participant’s name. 

 

A pair of indoor shoes are required in the building except for studios and programs where socks must be worn. Outdoor shoes and boots will not be permitted inside the studios during programs.

​

Please provide a change of clothes if you feel your child may require it during their time at the centre. 

 

HOLIDAY POLICY

At Beaches Sandbox we honour and celebrate Canada’s major holidays and celebrations. In addition, we will increasingly incorporate other cultural celebrations to reflect the diversity of our community. If you would like us to celebrate something meaningful to you, please let us know at least three months in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your request. 

​

INCLUSION POLICY

Beaches Sandbox accepts all people regardless of abilities. We include all people in all aspects of our programming. We believe that by providing experiences based on people’s needs, we will help them achieve their fullest potential and are committed to the learning, enjoyment and growth of all our participants. Our staff is willing to access additional supports for the beneficiaries in our programs when necessary. We believe that positive social interactions foster a safe and fun environment, which the centre strives to provide.

​

STAFF POLICY

The staff of Beaches Sandbox are all required to have a Criminal Reference Check on file prior to the start of their employment with the centre. All employees are fully trained in First Aid and CPR, they also regularly participate in trainings and professional development workshops to help support their employment at Beaches Sandbox.

 

LAST UPDATED JULY 2024.