Junior Naturalist Code of conduct

Our promise to each other and to the living world

A naturalist watches closely, moves gently, and takes care of the people and creatures around them. Whenever we gather to explore the living world, in the classroom, the garden, or out in the city, this is what we promise. Read it with a grown-up.

I stay with my group.

I stay close to my group and my teachers. If I can’t see my group or a grown-up, I stop where I am and tell someone right away.

I walk, I don’t run.

I move safely. When we go somewhere together, I walk with the group, stop at every street, and never run ahead. I hold a grown-up’s hand when I am asked to.

I stay out of the water.

Ponds, lakes, and fountains are for watching from the edge, never for going in, even to reach something.

Nothing wild goes in my mouth.

Nothing wild goes in my mouth. I only eat or taste something if a teacher gives it to me or confirms that it is safe to eat.

I am gentle with the living world.

I watch closely and let living things be. I don’t grab, chase, or crowd the animals, birds, and bugs we meet. They belong here, just like we do.

I care for the places we visit.

I tread gently, I take only what is freely offered, and I leave every place as lovely as I found it, or lovelier.

I take care of my body.

I drink my water, dress for the weather, find the shade when it is hot, and tell a grown-up if I feel unwell or just not right.

I speak up.

If anything ever makes me feel uncomfortable or unsafe, I tell my teacher or another grown-up I trust. I can always tell a grown-up, and I will be listened to.

I keep my hands to myself.

I keep my hands, feet, and body to myself. Everyone deserves to feel safe. I don’t push, grab, or hurt, and if I want a hug or to hold hands, I ask first

I am kind.

I use kind words, I include others, and I listen when someone else is talking.

I observe and wonder.

I use my eyes, my ears, and all my senses to notice the world around me. I look closely, I listen, and I ask questions. When I slow down, there is always something new to discover.