This is Us.
There are all kinds of assumptions made where Energy is concerned. Spiritual Energy is the most misunderstood concept because people cannot grasp now it works, for obvious reasons. How can anyone understand the Magic of what happens when someone attains Enlightenment.
An Adept will affect the people around him/her because of the immense Energy field around them. A beacon of Light.
An Adept touching someone will give them an Energy boost.

Can an Adept touch a child on the head?

Yes, a positive Energy boost, just as for others.