Seclusion and Restraint

The Down Syndrome Association of Connecticut’s Position on Seclusion and Restraint

• Restraint is only appropriate in instances of IMMINENT DANGER and must end as soon as the danger has passed (for example, restraint could be used at school to stop a child from bolting through an open door toward a busy street, but must end as soon as the door is closed).
• Repeated instances of restraint require an immediate IEP meeting and, likely, a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and plan to correct the conditions that create the need for restraint.
• Seclusion IS NEVER an appropriate response to a behavioral issue.

PARENTS SHOULD NEVER ALLOW RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION TO BE INCLUDED IN AN IEP. 

Recommended Resources:

Supporting Positive Behavior in Children and Teens with Down Syndrome: The Respond but Don’t React Method, by David Stein

How Safe is the Schoolhouse Full Report Jan 20, 2014

Planning for a Meeting About Your Child’s Behavior Needs (A Pacer Center Fact Sheet)

What is a Functional Behavior Assessment and How is it Used? (A Pacer Center Fact Sheet)

Behavior Assessment, Plans and Positive Supports (Multiple links gathered by the National Center for Children with Disabilities)