[LM_NET] Touching

[Margaret Merkley <MagieMae5@AOL.COM>]

The teachers in our district, and I suspect many others, have received  
several warnings from the teacher's union NOT to touch any student in any way,  to 
avoid possible sexual or abuse accusations and legal problems.  I work  with 
young students and typically ignore this warning because I have always  thought 
touches were essential in helping students feel secure and accepted,  
although I am careful to see that all touches are entirely appropriate and  
preferably witnessed by other adults.
 
Based on these studies, it is interesting to contemplate what effect the  
decrease in touching in schools resulting from similar warnings and  fears has 
had on our students' feelings of acceptance, security, and connection  in the 
school setting, and further how this may affect academic performance . .  .
 
Peg  Merkley
Reading Specialist / Certified LMS
New Hanover-Upper Frederick  Elementary School
Boyertown,  PA
magiemae5@aol.com


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