(Effective May 1, 2026)
PDFWAC 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.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 74.15.030. WSR 25-23-103, s 110-145-3190, filed 11/18/25, effective 5/1/26.]