WAC 110-145-3190

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.