Instructor Handbook

1. Before the event

• Confirm venue, time, and expected headcount at least 48 hours in advance.
• Review the participant list for known allergies, accessibility needs, or age adjustments.
• Plan a project that fits the age range, group size, time window, and mess constraints.
• Prepare kits with pre-measured materials to reduce setup and cleanup time.
• Pack a stocked first aid kit, cleaning supplies, name tags, and backup materials.

2. Setup

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before start time.
• Walk the space and identify hazards (cords, glass, sharp edges, uneven ground).
• Set up craft stations away from high-traffic areas and emergency exits.
• Post allergen notices where relevant materials are used.
• Confirm the location of the nearest exit, restroom, first aid supplies, and AED.

3. Check-in

• Verify each child against the registration list.
• Confirm the presence of a parent or guardian for each child.
• Note any changes to allergies or emergency contacts.
• Collect any missing acknowledgements (waiver, media release) before participation.

4. Running the activity

• Demo the project clearly and set a realistic pace.
• Circulate the room; do not stay behind a single table.
• Use age-appropriate tools; supervise glue guns, needles, or blades directly.
• Encourage effort and creativity over perfection.
• Adapt the project for younger, older, or special-needs participants.

5. Handling problems

• Stop the activity for any injury and administer first aid before continuing.
• Use calm, non-blaming language to defuse conflicts between children.
• Escalate any behavior that endangers others to the parent or venue manager.
• File a Safety Incident Report within 24 hours for any injury or near-miss.

6. After the event

• Restore the venue to its original condition, or better.
• Confirm attendance in the platform so payouts and metrics are accurate.
• Encourage families to leave a review.
• Note lessons learned to improve the next event.

7. Working with Community Partners

• Coordinate through the Community Partner's designated contact.
• Follow the community's brand and communication guidelines.
• Do not solicit residents for services outside the Happy Place platform.
• Route all rebooking or scope changes through Happy Place.

8. Where to get help

For platform, verification, or safety questions, contact hosts@happyplacecraftspace.com. For urgent safety issues during an event, follow the incident-reporting steps in the Safety Incident Report.