Should Churches Require Parental Consent Forms for Students and Children?
Pastor Hank and the Fusion Student Ministry were excited for a canoe and camping trip. But, they soon realized that Johnny hadn’t turned in his parental consent form. Even though Johnny’s parents verbally approved, should Pastor Hank proceed with the trip?
The answer is no.
Pastor Hank should not proceed without a signed consent form. Churches must have policies in place that require parental consent forms for minors (under the age of 18) who are participating in activities like camping, boating, and other overnight trips. This is essential to protect both the child and the church from potential legal issues.
Why Consent Forms Are Essential
Parental Authority:
Minors cannot legally provide consent, which makes it necessary for parents or legal guardians to give consent for activities involving their children. This form helps safeguard both the child’s well-being and the church’s legal standing.Form Essentials:
Specific Activity Consent:
Each activity requires a separate consent form. This ensures that parents are aware and approve of the specific trip, not just a general consent for all activities throughout the year.Health Certification:
The consent form should confirm the child’s fitness for the event and disclose any health conditions or concerns that may require special attention.Activity Exclusions:
Parents can indicate which activities their child should not participate in, ensuring that their preferences are respected.Emergency Authorization:
The form should grant church leaders permission to make medical decisions for the child if parents cannot be reached in case of an emergency.Signatures:
Ideally, both parents should sign the form, with a witness present, to ensure the consent is valid.
Combining Consent with Release Waivers
A parental consent form may also include a release waiver, which protects the church from liability in case of accidents. However, release waivers must be carefully crafted, as courts often scrutinize them for enforceability. Ensure your forms are legally sound by consulting legal experts.
