WAC 110-145-3190. Behavior management

Licensees must develop and follow policies and procedures that are approved by the department that describe their behavior management methods and meet the following requirements: (1) Comply with department-approved behavior management trainings; (2) Use behavior management methods appropriate to the child's or youth's developmental capabilities; (3) Use positive methods of guidance and behavior management that promote self-control, self-responsibility, self-direction, self-esteem, and cooperation; (4) Not use any of the following as behavior management methods: (a) Corporal punishment; (b) Verbal abuse, neglect, humiliation, intimidation, or fear; (c) Withholding of food; (d) Chores or physical labor; (e) Withholding approved contact with a child's or youth's family, fictive kin, or tribal community, unless it is approved by their representative; (f) Time out or de-escalation rooms that do not allow children or youth to exit, which are prohibited in all facilities; (g) Administering medication other than as prescribed or recommended by the manufacturer; (h) Any behavior management methods that interfere with a child's or youth's: (i) Basic needs; or (ii) Need for necessary services including contact with their: (A) Representative; (B) Attorney; or (C) Guardian ad litem; or (i) Any methods that are prohibited by WAC 110-145-3050 ; (5) Maintain responsibility for the behavior management of children and youth in care and must not delegate that responsibility to a child or youth; and (6) Immediately provide updated policies and procedures to the LD licensor for approval if behavior management methods change.