Media Release
26 September 2006
Common Sense Contact
New Zealand First is pleased that the NZEI has taken a common sense approach in its guidelines to teachers’ physical
contact with children.
“There are countless occasions during a normal school day when it is appropriate for teachers to be in contact with
children, from a congratulatory pat on the back to helping with toileting,” said Education spokesperson Brian Donnelly.
“When a child is upset, a hug and a few soothing words are often all that is needed to stop the tears, as any parent
will testify. It’s quite ludicrous to suggest that teachers should not be able to provide that, and it’s pleasing to see
this recognised in the guidelines.
“Having said that, it must be clearly understood by all teachers and childcare workers that they are in positions of
power, and that parents trust that their children will be protected and valued. Physical contact with children must
always be contextually appropriate and respectful.
“The 90’s climate of panic over child abuse resulted in less than helpful definitions around appropriate contact, which
undoubtedly contributed to the decline in numbers of men entering the teaching profession.
“This in itself is a problem for our children, many of whom will go through the education system without ever
encountering a male teacher. I hope that the NZEI guidelines signal a more balanced and less paranoid approach to
teachers’ contact with children, which in turn might help to make teaching a more attractive career option,” said Mr
Donnelly.
ENDS