“In loco parentis” is a Latin term that means “in the place of a parent” in English. This legal doctrine applies to a situation in which an individual or an institution, such as a school or daycare, takes on the legal responsibilities and authority that are typically held by a parent. This often happens when someone is temporarily caring for a child who is not their own and acts in a way that is in the best interests of the child’s well-being and safety.
For example, teachers and school administrators usually act in loco parentis when students are under their supervision during school hours or school-sponsored activities. In such cases, they have a duty to protect and educate the students as if they were the students’ parents. This doctrine helps establish the legal basis for teachers and school staff to make decisions and take actions on behalf of students in their care.
