Parent Handbook - MWR Fort Leonard Wood

crossing the street; holding a child gently, but firmly, during a temper tantrum). Restraining a
child is the last resort.
Some examples of appropriate touching are hugs, lap sitting (for young children), reassuring
touches on the shoulder, and naptime backrubs for a tense child.
Touching in an appropriate manner is an important part of communication between adults and
older youth. Touching in a positive manner is necessary for the emotional and social growth of
preteens and teens. It can teach affection and provide a sense of security and safety to a youth.
However, a youth should never be forced to give or receive touching actions, positive or
negative, against his or her will.
Inappropriate touching is touch that creates an improper/negative emotional or social effect on
the child or violates the law or American societal norms.
Inappropriate touching usually involves coercion or other forms of exploitation of the child,
satisfaction of adult needs at the expense of the child, or violates a cultural taboo regarding
sexual and/or physical contact between adults and children. Attempts to change child behavior
with adult physical force, often in anger, only reinforces to the child the concept that “striking
out” is an acceptable response to a problem.
Examples of inappropriate touching include forced greeting kisses, corporal punishment,
slapping, striking or pinching, fondling, or molesting.
Child Guidance/Discipline Techniques
Based on an understanding of individual needs and behaviors of children at varying
developmental levels, simple, understandable rules will be established so that expectations and
limitations are clearly defined.
Discipline will be constructive in nature, including such methods as diversion, separation of
child from situations, and praise for appropriate behavior.
Children will not be punished by:
Spanking, pinching, shaking, or other corporal punishment.
Isolation for long periods.
Confinement in closets, boxes, or similar places.
Binding to restrain movement of mouth or limb.
Humiliation or verbal abuse (humiliation is the most common abuse of children).
Careful thought is necessary to avoid spontaneous reactions which humiliate children. Never
make fun of a child for any reason. Embarrassment can inflict irreparable damage.
Deprivation of meals, snacks, outdoor play opportunities, or other program
components. Short-term restrictions on the use of specific play materials and equipment or
participation in a specific activity are permissible, but the punishment must fit the infraction.
Children will not be punished for lapses in toilet training or refusing food.
Highchairs or cribs will not be used for discipline purposes.
Use of the approved time out method will not exceed one minute per year of age.
Biting polices will focus on modifying child behavior within the existing
environment rather than suspending the child. Parents whose children are biting will be
counseled and advised. If a child is a danger to other children or themselves and is repeatedly
displaying this behavior, the parent will be asked to remove the child from childcare. Assistance
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