Participation Guidelines

Last updated: 21st August 2026

Disclaimer: This website acts as a platform to connect and facilitate bird-themed activities during Young Birders’ Month. Each event organizer is independently responsible for managing safety, logistics, and permissions for their respective events.
 

We believe that every child should be able to explore, enjoy, and learn about birds in a safe and supportive environment. These guidelines are meant to help parents, teachers, event organizers, and children make the most of YBM activities while keeping safety and respect at the center of all activities.

1. General Principles

  • Child safety, well-being, and wildlife ethics are our top priorities.
  • All activities must be inclusive, respectful, and age-appropriate.
  • No child should be excluded based on gender, religion, caste, ability, or background.
  • Respect for cultural sensitivities should be maintained in all communication and activities.
  • Parents/guardians, teachers, and organizers share the responsibility of ensuring safe participation.

 

2. For Parents & Teachers

  • Please supervise children during both online and in-person events.
  • Review event details (timing, age suitability, outdoor terrain) before enrolling children.
  • Ensure children carry water, caps, insect repellent, and any required permission slips for outdoor walks.
  • Guide children to avoid sharing sensitive personal information (phone numbers, addresses, passwords) with anyone in online or in-person events.

 

3. For Event Organizers

  • Event details submitted to the YBM website must be accurate, complete, and free of misleading claims.
  • Organizers are responsible for ensuring first aid, securing local permissions, and collecting emergency contact details of participants for outdoor activities. 
  • Ensure that organizers, volunteers, or staff are never alone with a minor out of sight of parents, teachers or guardians.
  • For online events, use trusted platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) with password-protected links, safe moderation, restricted screen-sharing, and disabled private participant chats.
  • Collect and use participant information responsibly. All communication should go through parents, guardians, or schools instead of collecting personal data from children directly. 
  • Any photos or videos of children should be shared online or with the YBM organizing team only with explicit, documented parental/guardian consent.

 

4. For Children

  • Be curious, kind, and respectful to everyone during events.
  • Keep a respectful distance from birds; do not disturb nests, roosting areas, or sensitive habitats. Stay on designated paths and ensure groups leave no litter behind.
  • Share your thoughts, questions, and creativity, but always check with a parent or teacher before submitting anything online.

 

5. Reporting Concerns

  • If you observe or experience anything concerning during a YBM activity, please write to us immediately at [email protected]
  • Concerns may include unsafe practices, inappropriate behavior, or misuse of YBM branding.
  • Reports will be reviewed promptly and appropriate action will be taken.