Spare the Rod?
but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.
(Prov. 13:24)
(Prov. 13:24)
While lawmakers on Beacon Hill are set to consider a proposed ban on spanking children in the commonwealth, I wonder – what do you think about disciplining children? What methods do you follow? What do you do with your kids?
A loving parent, PJP
Listen HERE to Dr. Ray Guarendi on Good Discipline, Great Teens.
A loving parent, PJP
Listen HERE to Dr. Ray Guarendi on Good Discipline, Great Teens.
8 comments:
Do what works.
We use a variety of discipline measures with our 4 (soon to be 5) children. We use the corner (cornertime), writing "I will not...." 25-50 times depending on the age and severity of the crime, and we also spank when necessary. We also homeschool, which, I believe, helps my children to be better behaved. We get many comments and compliments everywhere we go on their behavior, so it seems to work. We pray a lot, too, so I think that helps!
God bless you and your family Suzanne! Yours as well Peter! While I do not have any children, I know from observation(cousins or friends' children) that a good old fashion spanking is just necesary sometimes because little kids don't understand most reasoning. As for spanking in schools (BTW, I do not encourage anyone to send their children to public schools, ever), my dad says that when he was in school and kids got paddled, it at least kept them in line most of the time.
Anon, what "works" for you?
Thanks, Suzanne, for your sharing your techniques and family life. We also use the "corner"/time outs and spank when necessary...
Do you think what "works" must fit our needs as parents? I have a need for order and consistency. What works for me is an daily plan as well as predictable consequences for misbehaving.
I think the crucial issue is that the spanking not be merely an expression of anger or frustration. Sounds obvious, but in the heat of misbehavior this is easier said than done.
If it's purposeful and done as a means of correction it's a time-tested, biblically approved means of discipline. It should be reserved only for significant issues, such as direct disobedience. It's about children's misbehavior having consequences, so for spanking to work it must be unmistakably clear to the child why he or she is being spanked, so that the right lessons are communicated.
I know this sounds basic, but you asked for our opinion!
I think the crucial issue is that the spanking not be merely an expression of anger or frustration. Sounds obvious, but in the heat of misbehavior this is easier said than done.
If it's purposeful and done as a means of correction it's a time-tested, biblically approved means of discipline. It should be reserved only for significant issues, such as direct disobedience. It's about children's misbehavior having consequences, so for spanking to work it must be unmistakably clear to the child why he or she is being spanked, so that the right lessons are communicated.
I know this sounds basic, but you asked for our opinion!
We have 8 children and usually spank up until the age of 2. By that time the kids usually catch on that acting up is so not worth it. Time outs- in my opinion allow a child to sit and stew and build up resentment.
The wording of his law is very troubling as it also criminalizes "any act that causes humiliation". Now how in the world is that going to be enforced? Very chilling indeed.
M. Alexander,
That is interesting that you say that about "time out" because I usually would expect the opposite. I'm not a parent so I don't know that much about raising kids. You also bring up a good point about consistency. If you are consistent enough with your discipline then it seems, as you say, that kids will give up on "acting up" because they eventually catch on that "acting up" = spanking/embarassment. God bless you and your family!
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