37.95.606    CHILD CARE CENTERS, GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE

(1) Early childhood teachers must use appropriate forms of guidance and discipline. Physical punishment, including spanking or other forms of corporal punishment, is strictly prohibited in child care facilities. Discipline must include positive guidance, redirection, and the setting of clear limits that foster the child's ability to become self-disciplined. In addition, all staff must model appropriate behaviors for children in the facility.

(2) Any punishment or discipline which is humiliating, shaming, frightening, or otherwise damaging is strictly prohibited.

(3) Parental or guardian permission does not allow for the use of any punishments listed in (1) or (2) above.

(4) The provider is responsible for ensuring that each care-giver participates in an in-service training session regarding discipline and guidance techniques appropriate for children.

 

History: 52-2-704, 53-4-503, MCA; IMP, 52-2-723, 52-2-731, 53-4-504, 53-4-508, MCA; NEW, 1982 MAR p. 709, Eff. 4/16/82; AMD, 1985 MAR p. 2041, Eff. 12/27/85; TRANS, from Dept. of SRS, 1987 MAR p. 1492, Eff. 7/1/87; TRANS, from DFS, 1998 MAR p. 2881; AMD, 2000 MAR p. 2415, Eff. 9/8/00; AMD, 2018 MAR p. 308, Eff. 2/10/18.