Md. Code Regs. 07.02.25.20

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 12, June 14, 2024

Section 07.02.25.20 - Discipline of Foster Children

A. Only resource parents or other adult caregivers approved by the local department, and known to the children, may discipline foster children.

B. Physical holding as a form of restraint shall be used only to the degree necessary to protect the child from self-injury or from injuring others.

C. Behavior Management training and continuing consultation shall be provided by the local department as needed to resource parents regarding appropriate discipline methods. The use of discipline shall also be discussed during any reconsideration of the resource home.

D. Prohibited punishments include:

(1) Corporal punishment, which includes physical hitting or any type of physical punishment inflicted in any manner upon the body;

(2) Physical exercises, such as running laps or performing pushups;

(3) Requiring or using force to require a child to take an uncomfortable position such as squatting, bending, or repeated physical movements;

(4) Verbal remarks which belittle or ridicule a child or a child's family;

(5) Denial of essential program services, such as local department planned educational, psychiatric, or psychological services;

(6) Denial of meals, clothing, bedding, sleep, mail, or visits with a child's family;

(7) Threatening a child with the loss of the child's placement in the home;

(8) Bodily shaking;

(9) Placement in a locked room; and

(10) Use of mechanical or chemical restraints.

Md. Code Regs. 07.02.25.20