COMDTINST 1710.12 — Youth Programs (yp) And Activities For Dependent Children

COMDTINST 1710.12 governs Coast Guard Youth Programs, including participant eligibility, health, safety, fees, facilities, and operations.

Search COMDTINST 1710.12

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 1710.12
  • Title: YOUTH PROGRAMS (YP) AND ACTIVITIES FOR DEPENDENT CHILDREN
  • Date: 11/24/2024
  • Proponent: CSC-MWR

View COMDTINST 1710.12 on armypubs.army.mil


It establishes minimum standards for quality, healthy, and safe programs serving youth aged 5 through 18. It addresses admissions, discipline, immunizations, health checks, facility requirements, transportation, fees, and staff oversight.

Applies to: The standards in this Instruction are the minimum standards that must be used to plan quality, healthy, and safe programs for any youth program participant aged 5 (enrolled in kindergarten) through age 18 (if enrolled in high school).

Topics covered

  • Youth participant eligibility
  • Admission priorities
  • Positive guidance discipline
  • Immunization waivers
  • Daily health checks
  • Facility fire and safety requirements
  • Transportation policy
  • Staff-to-child ratios

Questions and answers

What age range do Coast Guard Youth Program standards cover?

The standards in this Instruction are the minimum standards that must be used to plan quality, healthy, and safe programs for any youth program participant aged 5 (enrolled in kindergarten) through age 18 (if enrolled in high school). (paragraph 1-1)

How are youth admitted when a Youth Program has applications?

Youth must be admitted in the order of completed applications received. (paragraph 1)

What discipline practices are prohibited in Coast Guard Youth Programs?

Corporal punishment, humiliation, or frightening punishments are prohibited (e.g., spanking, hitting, slapping, pinching, shaking, biting, or any form of physical punishment). Verbal abuse, threats, and placing a youth in a confined space are also forbidden. (paragraph 3)

Can a child be admitted without current immunizations?

No child will be admitted to a YP without current, age-appropriate immunizations. There are only two exceptions to the immunization requirement: (1) when a medical professional provides documentation based on medical necessity; and (2) religious accommodation based on a sincerely held belief. (paragraph 1)

How much notice is required for Youth Program fee changes?

A minimum of thirty (30) days’ written notice must be given to all patrons for any of their YP fee changes. (paragraph 3)

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