Health and Safety

 

At Otters Den Nature School, your child's safety is our highest priority.

 

Our program is built around a comprehensive Health and Safety Manual that guides everything from daily supervision and emergency preparedness to illness prevention, first aid, medication procedures, and safe outdoor exploration. Before each program day, educators inspect the site for hazards, maintain frequent head counts, establish clear boundaries, and carry first aid supplies, emergency contacts, and any necessary student medications at all times. Staff are trained in emergency response, conduct regular evacuation and safety drills, and follow detailed procedures for weather events, wildlife encounters, injuries, transportation, and family communication to ensure children remain safe while enjoying the many benefits of learning outdoors.

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Otters Den Nature School plans to be licensed by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) as an Outdoor Nature-Based (ONB) child care program in September, 2026. This specialized license recognizes that children thrive through hands-on learning in natural environments while requiring programs to meet rigorous state health and safety standards.

 

Licensed ONB programs must maintain qualified staff, low educator-to-student ratios, comprehensive emergency plans, ongoing staff training, health and immunization requirements, risk assessments of outdoor environments, and developmentally appropriate supervision practices specifically designed for outdoor settings. Families can feel confident knowing our program combines the freedom and adventure of nature-based education with the accountability and oversight of Washington State licensing standards.

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Please email info@ottersden.org to request a copy of the full Health and Safety Manual and accompanying Parent Handbook.