hands off?

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hands off?
By Dawn

My first impression is that this is just another example of school boards running scared. There is such a fear of public perception that they rush to eliminate anyone or anything that even hints of impropriety, just in case
anyone might be offended.
I teach 6th graders and I do touch them. Like you, I pat their arm or hand while they work to show them support, I tousle their hair, or pat them on the back. I also am the recipient of hugs, which I happily accept. I am also a mother, and this is how I would want my own child treated by a teacher. How can you establish any rapport without some sort of

physical contact? It is simply an extension of the nurturing aspect of our profession.

Having said that, I also feel that 3rd grade does seem a bit old for sitting on teachers' laps. That is probably more appropriate for K to 1st grade. AND, although it is unfair, I have heard it said that male teachers always have to be more careful about any touching than do female teachers. I guess it's just a lingering societal bias against men working with young children.

I hope we don't have to have a completely hands off policy. What a cold and uncaring place school would become...