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Policy

Interactions between children and adults provide opportunities for children to build trust, develop an understanding of self and others, and encourage respect for the feelings and rights of others. All interactions between children and adults will be respectful and supportive of each child’s gender, culture, language, ethnicity, and family composition.

Positive touch is an important part of healthy brain development in young children. Touch reduces stress, aids in healthy emotional development, and demonstrates love for the children in our care.

Appropriate touch is defined as non-intrusive and causing no feelings of discomfort or confusion for children or caregivers and should involve consent, autonomy, and safety. Each child and caregiver should be allowed to determine what kinds of touches they find acceptable for their own bodies.

Interaction Guidelines

  1. Adults will greet each child to acknowledge that they belong in the classroom.
  2. Adults will actively listen to children and observe non-verbal communication.
  3. Adults will physically place themselves at the child’s eye level while interacting.
  4. Adults will encourage children to talk about their feelings.
  5. Adults will use language and materials free from ethnic and gender bias.
  6. Adults will stimulate critical thinking skills and cognitive concepts by using open-ended questioning, modeling, and other appropriate communication strategies.
  7. Be aware of the children’s activity level and limit interrupting the children engaged in play and learning.
  8. Adults will demonstrate respect and caring for children in all interactions, giving reinforcement for children’s efforts.
  9. Staff will make every effort to include people in the classroom who speak the primary language of each child and are knowledgeable about their culture.

Appropriate Touch Guidelines

  1. Understand that a child’s need for physical contact varies individually. Get to know each child and determine what kind of touch is appropriate and comfortable for them.
  2. Communicate intent whenever you move or touch children’s bodies. Caregivers should tell children what they plan to do prior to or while they are touching children and can pause briefly to give children time to process the information.  For example, during diapering-tell the child which parts you are touching and why, using the proper names for body parts.
  3. Whenever possible, ask permission before touching children. For example, ask first before giving hugs, back rubs at rest time, or helping with self-care that a child can complete independently. If the child says no, then refrain from touching them. Be aware that a child may be uncomfortable saying no to an adult. Pay attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues to gauge the child’s comfort level.
  4. Avoid using unnecessary touch with children if you are the only supervising adult. If possible, have another adult present.
  5. Try to touch nonvulnerable body parts only, such as the shoulders, back, arms, and hands. Avoid touching vulnerable body parts, such as the chest, and genitals, except for health or safety.
  6. Be aware of the cultural considerations when touching children. What is acceptable in some cultures may be prohibited in others.
  7. It is not appropriate for teachers/staff to kiss or tickle children.  Physically aggressive touch is prohibited.  See policy on Child Guidance for more information.

This policy complies with Head Start Performance Standard 45CFR Section 1302.30, 1302.21(a)
Approved by Policy Council on April 8, 1997.
Updated July 26, 1999. November 15, 2000, June 29, 2007, September 11, 2007. June 2008. July 2017, May 2026

© 1995-2010. Head Start of Lane County. All rights reserved.

REVIEWED: May 2021, May 2026