American Judo & Jujitsu Federation

Youth Protection Policy

Due to current circumstances that exist in society today, the American Judo & Jujitsu Federation (AJJF) has adopted policies aimed at eliminating opportunities for abuse within the programs and classes of the AJJF. These policies focus on Sensei/Instructor selection and on placing barriers to abuse within the program.

Barriers to Abuse Within the AJJF

The AJJF has adopted the following policies to provide additional security for our members. These policies are primarily for the protection of our youth; however, they also serve to protect our adult leaders from false accusations of abuse.

Two-deep leadership. Two unrelated adult leaders, Sensei/Instructors, or Sensei/Instructor and a parent of a participant are required on all trips, outings, events and classes. In other words at no time should an adult member be alone with a child or children.
No one on one contact. One on one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youth. Note: this should not be construed to mean that on the mat during normal classroom situations there couldn't be one and one contact between Sensei/Instructor. This refers to off mat situations.
Respect of Privacy. Sensei/Instructors must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes, taking showers, etc. and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations.
Separate accommodations. When traveling or while attending camps, seminars, conventions, etc. no youth is permitted to sleep in a room or tent of an adult other than his/her own parent or guardian. Exception would be when two or more adults are present in the room and the parents of the youth involved have given written permission for such conditions to exist.
Proper preparation for high-risk activities. Activities with elements of risk should never be undertaken without proper preparation, equipment, and supervision and safety measures.
Appropriate attire. Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinny-dipping in not appropriate as part of an AJJF activity.
Constructive discipline. Discipline used in AJJF dojos and activities should be constructive and reflect the values inherent in Danzan Ryu and the AJJF.
Hazing prohibited. Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as a part of any AJJF activity.
Junior Instructor training and supervision. Sensei/Instructors must monitor and guide the actions of junior instructors and ensure that AJJF policies are followed.

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Page URL: http://www.ajjf.org/handbook/youthprotection.html
Page last modified: $Date: 2005/06/10 23:44:19 $