Is Smacking Children ever OK?

Smacking children is never ok for a number of reasons. Firstly, smacking children is a form of abuse that is punishable by law. Children have the right to feel safe and protected, and therefore should not be subjected to violent treatment. In addition, children tend to mimic the actions and behavior of adults. Children who are subjected to violence often lash out in violent ways themselves.

Consequences associated with smacking children:

• can result in trauma and extensive harm to the child;
• can lead to the destruction of trusted relationships;
• poor self-esteem;
• learning difficulties;
• behavioral problems;

Where parents can go to get help:

By seeking support and attempting to learn new methods to better discipline children, parents are taking a critically important step. They can seek various forms of support including:

• practical and personal  suppor, information based support
• enroll in classes- i.e. anger management, parent training classes

Alternative methods of discipline:

Parents can discipline their children in a number of ways without ever resorting to hitting or smacking. When parents are upset they should:

• take time to cool down before disciplining a child
• explain the reasons behind their actions to the child
• focus on encouraging verbal communication and interaction
• explain how to prevent future occurrences to the child
• be sure to remain both empathetic and patient when disciplining the child

The Quirky Kid clinic offers consultation, parenting training and our popular workshop, Raised on Praise.

References:
Raising Children Network , and  Kimberley O’Brien, Child Psychologist

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