Seclusion
OVERVIEW
This is the 1st of 3 videos in our short series on Seclusions, in collaboration with ARCH Disability Law Centre.
This video introduces what seclusion can look like in schools and how it is often discussed alongside physical restraint.
You will learn:
what seclusion is
how it differs from physical restraint
how the two can sometimes happen in the same situation.
qhy seclusion can limit students’ access to learning, connection, and full participation in school.
You can find the transcription for this video here (including visual descriptions for the video).
Refer to our glossary if you’re having trouble understanding any of the terms in this series.
What is seclusion?
Seclusion is the separation of a student from their classmates and/or kept in a different room or area. Seclusions are not addressed in Ontario law and each school board may develop their own seclusion policy. Schools have a responsibility to support students with disabilities, and seclusions are often inappropriate to addressing students’ needs and supporting inclusion.
What is physical restraint?
Physical restraint and seclusion are very different events, but are often referred to together and are often in the same policy.
Physical restraint is the use of physical touch or force to hold down a student. For example, using body contact or a restraint chair to restrict the student’s movement. Education is not being provided while a student is being physically restrained, and physical restraints are usually done for a shorter period of time.