MSF 2017 is currently scheduled to include kids.

Depending upon the number of families attending with children, each family will be expected to plan and lead 1-2 age appropriate group activities that would be suitable for children of a range of ages. In addition, each family will be expected to provide an adult to assist in leading 1-2 additional activities (planned by another family) in order to maintain the safety of the children and the sanity of the adult leading the activity. Of course additional adults, either parents or those who just want to participate for the fun of it, will always be welcome.

A schedule for the children’s activities will be in place, separate from the Duty Roster and will vary depending upon the number of families attending with children and the ages of the children each year. Participating in and leading a children’s activity will not substitute for regular Duty Roster items. If all parents participate then they should each have an opportunity to sit and relax—and perhaps have an adult conversation—some time during the weekend and the children will hopefully enjoy their MSF experience even more.

Parents will need to thoroughly plan their activity prior to arriving at MSF. One adult, probably Carla Guenette, will assist in coordinating and planning activities to make sure there are a variety of offerings and that they will be appropriate for the majority of children attending. She will also be available to offer suggestions if you are stuck for ideas. However, it remains the responsibility of all the parents attending with children to arrive at MSF prepared with any supplies and enthusiasm necessary for your activity. It would be a good idea to have a back up plan as well since things come up, or down as the case may be, (rain, tired children, over excited children, etc.)

1. Swimming is not to be offered as an activity. That is an activity best left to the adults that know their children and their swimming ability best, namely, the child’s parents.

2. Activities will be listed on the Children’s Activity Schedule so that each family can decide whether or not a particular activity is right for their child.

3. No child will be made to participate in an activity they do not want to. Participation by the children is always voluntary. If your child does not choose to participate at a particular time, then their parent(s) assume responsibility for them during that period.

4. Parents leading activities will not be responsible for infants, toddlers, or children wearing diapers. Activity leaders will not be responsible for accompanying children to the latrine so please make arrangements for such situations prior to the start of an activity.

5. Parents should promptly reclaim their children at the end of each activity. Assistance in cleaning up when the activity is finished will always be appreciated.

6. Plenty of free time will continue to exist in the schedule since children, like adults, need time to relax, unwind, explore their own interests in the outdoors, and simply run and play in an unstructured way.

7. During Activity times, children should not be on the Deck, allowing adults their own time.