Touch/Contact Policy
This policy is to inform you, the parents/carers of the children in my care, of my policy regarding physical contact with your child whilst they are in my care.
Whilst the children are in my care, there will be NO physical punishment of any child at any time. Children are disciplined as per my Behaviour Policy of which you have a copy.
I believe that children need nurturing and this includes the need for some physical contact for their care and healthy emotional, and physical, development.
The physical contact can be described in the following ways:
Nurturing – this would include such things hugs, non-intimate kisses, hand holding, carrying, cuddling, gentle tickling, and games such as “Walking round the garden”. This contact would never be made if the child did not wish it. The child has a right to choose.
Safety and Guidance – this would include restraining a child from a dangerous or harmful situation, separating fighting children, leading them and guiding them and administering first aid.
Hygiene – this would include such things as face and hand washing, nappy changing, assisting with “toileting” duties (as appropriate for age and stage of development of child), examining rashes or unusual marks, ( which may be noted in accordance with my Child Protection Policy), nose blowing, changing of clothes, or assisting, brushing hair and replacing hair clips/bands.
I also believe it is normal and healthy for children to express affection for each other, which may include hugs, kisses and hand-holding. Again this contact would not be made unless the child was in agreement.