When it comes to discipline, many parents debate whether spanking is appropriate. My take? You should stop at age zero. Allow me to share my journey.
As a child, I experienced spanking a few times between the ages of 4 and 10. My dad only did it sparingly, and he always explained his reasoning beforehand—no surprises or angry outbursts. The spanks were firm enough to sting but never left a bruise, and he only spanked my bottom. Importantly, I never felt like a “bad kid.”
When my wife, Sarah, and I were preparing to welcome our first child, we discussed our childhood experiences with discipline. She had a similar upbringing, and we planned to adopt the same approach. After all, we thought, “sometimes it’s the only way to grab a kid’s attention.”
But then, just moments after our son was born, Sarah turned to me with a look that said it all and declared, “You’re never going to touch this child.” The post-birth oxytocin was clearly working its magic, but she was serious.
And so we chose not to spank. It required more creativity and engagement to discipline without physical punishment, but looking back, that challenge has been a silver lining.
Now, with five kids (and I’m still in the thick of it!), I can’t say it’s been easier or tougher. I’ve faced temptations, sure, but we’ve stuck to our guns. Our experiences align with research suggesting that non-violent discipline is beneficial.
So, in short: Don’t hit your kids. For more on parenting and discipline strategies, check out this informative resource on intrauterine insemination. And if you’re looking for ways to boost your fertility, visit this authority on supplements.
Summary: Initially supportive of spanking as discipline, a new father experiences a change of heart after his child’s birth, leading him to adopt non-violent methods. The shift sparked creativity in discipline and aligns with research on child development.