Behavior Management And Discipline

Methods of behavior management and discipline for children must be positive and consistent. These methods must be based on each child's needs, stage of development, and behavior. (7-1-26) 01. Prohibitions. The following types of punishment of a foster child are prohibited: (7-1-25) a. Physical force or any kind of punishment inflicted on the body, including spanking; (7-1-25) b. Cruel and unusual physical exercise or forcing a child to take an uncomfortable position; (7-1-25) c. Use of excessive physical labor with no benefit other than for punishment; (7-1-25) d. Mechanical, medical, or chemical restraint; (7-1-25) e. Locking a child in a room or area of the home; (7-1-25) f. Denying necessary food, clothing, bedding, rest, toilet use, bathing facilities, or entrance to the foster home; (7-1-25) g. Mental or emotional cruelty; (7-1-25) h. Verbal abuse, ridicule, humiliation, profanity, threats, or other forms of degradation directed at a child or a child's family; (7-1-25) i. Threats of removal from the foster home; (7-1-25) j. Denial of visits or communication with a child's family unless authorized by a children's agency in its service plan for the child and family; and (7-1-25) k. Denial of necessary educational, medical, counseling, or social services. (7-1-25) 02. Restraint. A foster parent who has received specific training in the use of child restraint may use reasonable restraint methods, approved by the children's agency, to prevent a child from harming themselves, other persons or property, or to allow a child to gain control of themselves. (7-1-25) 03. Authority. The authority for the discipline of a foster child must not be delegated by a foster parent to other members of the household. (7-1-25) 04. Agency Consultation. A foster parent must consult with the children's agency prior to using any behavior management or discipline technique that exceeds the scope of these rules. (7-1-25) IDAHO ADMINISTRATIVE CODE IDAPA 16.06.02 Department of Health and Welfare Foster Care Licensing Section 247 Page 11