The American Academy of Pediatricians [AAP] recently updated its policy on the most effective ways to discipline children. The AAP noted the most recent research reaffirms the previous policy, which states corporal punishment [spanking] is only minimally effective in the short term and not effective in the long-term. In fact, the AAP says it is essential parents give consequences; calmly and firmly and with follow through. They also note, in addition to setting limits, modeling, listening, reinforcing positive behavior and redirecting also are effective adjuncts for effective discipline.
Parents who take the time to seek out professional help with children hopefully will be at least open to suggestions. As a family counselor, it is quite common the parents I see will be open to almost any suggestion but no spanking. When my 4-year-old son was angry and bit my wife or myself, well-meaning relatives suggested we bite him back.
I would wager most parents occasionally lose their temper and give their child a spank but that is quite different from having corporal punishment as a go-to in the arsenal of parenting. Anticipate tantrum triggers, like being tired or hungry, and help head them off with well-timed naps and meals.
By Mitchell Rosen Daniel. Aitken sgvn. More in Local News.
