FAQS

How can Joy help with my child's education?  JOY provides a chance for students to learn hands on what is going on in the environment around them. We work closely with your child's teachers to prepare classes that compliment the instruction that they will be receiving in their regular classroom. JOY also has a continued commitment to experiential learning that fits with the proficiencies mandated by the State of Ohio.

Will my child be forced to do something that he or she is uncomfortable with?  JOY works on the philosophy of "Challenge by Choice". We provide a challenge, whether it is a ropes course or a Living History Program, and the students decide how much they want to do. No student is forced to participate if they feel unsafe emotionally or physically.

What are the Adventure Activities like?  Many of our programs feature events such as the Alpine Tower experience, indoor climbing walls and exploring our High Ropes Course. These events may be strenuous, will require physical exertion and be conducted at a height from 10 to 50 feet off the ground. Participants must be able to follow instructions and accept direction from our staff. For all programs we follow a "Challenge by Choice" philosophy. We invite our guests to participate at the level that they are most comfortable with. We ask for confidential medical information that helps our staff identify certain conditions that we should know about during your visit. We will do our best to help you make an informed decision as to your degree of participation in that event.

Who will be watching my child?  That depends on the time of day. During the class sessions a JOY staff member will be with them along with chaperones or school staff who join the class. At meals, cabins, or recreation time the teachers and chaperones provided by your school will be with the students. We require that a student never be without adult supervision, and that there is a 1:12 ratio in the cabins at night.

What happens if my child gets hurt?  All JOY Staff have a minimum of first aid and CPR training. Many of the staff also have additional training ranging from wilderness first responders to life guards. The nearest hospital is only 12 miles away and JOY works closely with rescue and fire departments to make sure that help is never far away.

What if my child has special needs?  JOY is happy to work with you to provide for special needs. Please let us know the nature of the need and we will do what we can to make your child's experience a positive one.