One of the best touches is a simple handshake accompanied with a few kind words. Eyes light up when you touch and show you care. Another effective touch is simply placing your hand on a student's shoulder.
Common sense dictates when and if.
Previously, I mentioned my educational experiences in prison. Another monumental lesson I learned from inmates is the importance of a firm and caring handshake. One of my primary goals was to teach inmates how to shake hands like a normal everyday person. It worked wonders. A handshake is a simple touch that brings instant smiles and feelings of importance to the giver and receiver.