Last week I read an article discussing the use of restraint when working with children that have disabilities. A 12 year old boy with Asperger Syndrome had been restrained face-down on multiple occasions and now, after a hearing, litigation has begun.
Buffalo News reporter, Barbara O’Brien, poses the following questions that teacher’s face:
- How much physical force can be used in restraining an unruly child?
- How much time and attention should be given to the special-needs child without neglecting others?
- Are there better ways to control a frustrated child who has special needs?
The victims parent report that physical contact can actually trigger outbursts from their son andsubmit that teachers need to better understand the disorder – and I couldn’t agree more.
Restraining a child is dangerous; positional asphyxiation can occur, especially when a child’s upper trunk is underdeveloped (which is common among children with autism). This is one critical point I make when training emergency medical, fire or law enforcement professionals.
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So, what is a teacher supposed to do if a child is presenting behavior that could hurt others or themselves? Is there a method of restraint that is OK, such as, grasping a child’s wrist?
What about placement – should children that behave in ways that require even occasional restraint be in specialized classrooms? How much disruption should other children be exposed to during school?
I believe this issue speaks for itself although it is not black and white. A New York State Department of Education representative said restraining was for emergencies only and should not be routine – again, I agree.
I’m sure you agree too, but I’d like to hear your thoughts and opinions on this topic.
Sadly, these cases are becoming more common as more children are diagnosed with these disorders at a rate outpacing the training and support provided to those that work with them.
I truly hope you do not have a personal story to share about a child being restrained, but if you do, and would like to share it with other moms, post it here or in the forum.
Final Note: In New York State restraining is a legal…Not sure I agree.
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