Restrictive Interventions - what does this mean?

[gracygrey]

Hi,

Are restrictive interventions classed the same as physical interventions? I have never come across this term before not even in our settings policies and procedures

thank you

[anniebee]

hi, I've not heard of the exact term, but the term 'least restrictive principle' means allowing the children freedom from too many restrictive rules. For example, to evidence it I did a RA on reading to a mixed age group, but didn't expect the younger children to sit silently, therefore applying the 'least restrictive principle'. A 'restrictive intervention' could just mean stepping in & stopping the children doing something without a good reason. Just a thought. More over-complicated language for what's probably something thats just basic common sense that you do everyday!!

[Ruthierhyme]

Hi, they seem to interweave, I feel restrictive intervention is an intervention that restricts purposeful/confrontational movement in contrast to physical intervention that involves actual bodily contact. It may appy to containment, barrier erection/enforcement and social restriction where, with the intervention of language it contains and restricts possibly explosive, destructive or harmful behaviour - to self and others. eg. placing a hand, arm, body within an instance of conflict/confrontation with the aim of diffusing & deflecting the situation without contact, use of facial expression/words that helps an individual to reassess what they are doing.

The PPT from Australia, Victoria's supporting positive behaviour explains my own understanding of the phrase. Abstract from SCIE

Physical and restrictive intervention would sit alongside abilities to assess risk, appropriate training, knowledge & understandiing of human rights & absolute familiarity with an establishments policies and procedres.

Level three CYPW handbooks on amazon.co.uk - page 110 of the Cache title for least restrictive principle

Searh page for other 'restrcitive intervention' threads

Quote page 23 of Englands EY's framework EYFS

24

Physical intervention is where practitioners use reasonable force to prevent children from injuring themselves or others or damaging property.

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