Question:

What’s the difference between restraint and seclusion?

Answer:

In Maryland, the school law distinguishes between ‘restraint’ and ‘seclusion.’ Restraint is a physical action that limits a student’s movement to prevent harm in emergency situations. Seclusion, on the other hand, involves isolating a student for a short period, under specific conditions, when less intrusive methods have failed. Seclusion must be appropriate for the student’s age and behavior, not last longer than 30 minutes, and be documented by school staff.

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