1. A. Caregivers shall use positive methods of discipline. Discipline shall be constructive in nature and include techniques such as:

   1. 1. Using limits that are fair, consistently applied, appropriate, and understandable for the child's level of development;
   2. 2. Providing children with reasons for limits;
   3. 3. Giving positively worded direction;
   4. 4. Modeling and redirecting children to acceptable behavior;
   5. 5. Helping children to constructively express their feelings and frustration to resolve conflict; and
   6. 6. Arranging equipment, materials, activities, and schedules in a way that promotes desirable behavior.

2. B. When time out is used as a discipline technique:

   1. 1. It shall be used sparingly and shall not exceed one minute for each year of the child's age;
   2. 2. It shall be appropriate to the child's developmental level and circumstances;
   3. 3. It shall not be used with infants or toddlers;
   4. 4. The child shall be in a safe, lighted, well-ventilated place, and within sight and sound of a caregiver; and
   5. 5. The child shall not be left alone inside or outside the home while separated from the group.

Statutory Authority

§§ 22.1-16 and 22.1-289.046 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Former 22VAC40-111-630 derived from Virginia Register Volume 26, Issue 7, eff. July 1, 2010; renumbered, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 24, eff. July 1, 2021.