Why don't preachers protect themselves like a gyne?

[Beowulf]

(08-07-2012 10:45 AM)Rendrag Wrote:  

(08-07-2012 10:07 AM)Beowulf Wrote:  Interesting discussions. For a long time I was the only male teacher in an elementary school. I was VERY aware of any situation that might put me in an awkward position, and would make sure that an administrator or other teacher was available on those occasions. Transparency is key.

In some cases I was the only male role model for these kids who were from single mother homes. At that age they crave attention and contact, and would come up wanting hugs. It broke my heart to not be able to provide appropriate contact, but in this day and age you just can't do that. Even my female colleagues followed the "no hugs" rule for their students.

You are wise. Those hugs should be from the mom or grandparent. A high Five can be just as effective in showing affection and attention.

I gave out lots of high fives. I found a simple toss of a Frisbee at recess works well, too. You just have to be creative on giving out approval and attention and making sure it's appropriate.

FWIW, I'm a school administrator now and deal mostly with adults. I still take precautions for transparency's sake.

[lucrezaborgia]

At the Boys and Girls club, we did side-hugs.

[amyrose5]

(08-04-2012 05:14 PM)tiarali Wrote:  A predator won't be stopped by these things, but it might send up warning flags quicker if he's seen to be trying to get around them.

I taught in Catholic school where there were very strict policies about working alone with students. There are two reasons for policies like open doors, windows, not being alone with a student, etc...:

1--It helps prevent false accusations.
2--It helps tip other adults off about a predator.

The training we had to go through (which all staff and volunteers who work with children have to do regularly in every Catholic diocese in the U.S. but one which refuses to comply) emphasizes very much that if you see any adult trying to circumvent the policies it is a huge red flag and should be addressed.

[elfdream]

Boy Scout Youth Protection. An adult is never alone with a Scout. NEVER. Its that simple.