The law restricts some practices used to manage the behaviours of children and young people in care.

Carers are unable to use restricted practices to manage a child’s behaviours unless the practice forms part of an approved behaviour management plan.  

Restricted practices are: 

• Physical restraint 
• Psychotropic medication 
• Time out, non-exclusionary  
• Exclusionary time-out 

Prohibited practices: 

• Any form of corporal punishment (smacking, hitting) 
• Any punishment that is intended to humiliate a child or young person 
• Use of medication to control or retain a child or young person’s behaviour without a behaviour support plan 
• Any punishment that involves immobilising a child or young person 
• Force feeding or depriving  
• Any use of aggressive punishment techniques for example; hot, cold bath, spices in mouth or in food 
• Confinement or containment 
• Punishment that contains threats to stop family contact 
• Denying access to basic needs or support

Actions that can be taken: ensure carers talk to their caseworker if unsure of whether a form of discipline is a restricted practice.  

Discuss the child or young person’s behaviour with the caseworker to ensure supports are in place.  

Seek support from My Forever Family NSW.