Inclement Weather Policy

1. Background:

This policy is established to ensure the safety and well-being of both clients and staff during nature-based therapy sessions in the event of inclement weather conditions. By implementing clear guidelines and procedures, we aim to mitigate risks associated with adverse weather while maintaining the therapeutic benefits of outdoor sessions.

2. Resource for Determining Inclement Weather:

We rely on official weather forecasts provided by recognized weather and environmental services

  1. Environment Climate Change CAN

  2. Meteorological Service of Canada

  3. Canadian Hurricane Centre

  4. The Weather Network 

  5. Air Quality Health Index

  6. The Weather Channel 

3. Weather Levels and Actions:

4. Session plan if needing to modify due to inclement weather:

In the event that a session cannot proceed outdoors due to inclement weather, the following options will be available to clients to ensure continuity of therapy:

  • for individual sessions sessions will either

    • move to an indoor location (at therapist’s discretion)

    • shift to a virtual parent coaching session

    • a home program will be sent that supports continuation towards your child’s goals

  • for Kids in the Woods sessions

    • session will be rescheduled for the week following the current last week of group sessions (for example, if the group is scheduled to run until November 19th, the rescheduled session would take place November 26th)

5. Dissemination of Information:

Clients will be notified of weather conditions and any changes to session plans via email with as much notice as possible, but at least 2 hours before the scheduled session time. 

6. Client/Family Choice:

Clients and their families have the flexibility to decide whether to attend an outdoor session after being informed about the weather conditions. If a client chooses not to attend due to personal concerns, our standard cancellation policy will still apply. We understand and respect your decision, and we are here to support you in any way we can.

We recognize that navigating inclement weather situations can be challenging, and we appreciate the cooperation and understanding of our clients and staff in adhering to this policy.

Sincerely,

Shannon Rolph, OT Reg. (Ont.)

Owner and therapist

Shannon Rolph Occupational Therapy