Action for Children opposes the use of corporal punishment in schools and the group wants districts to have to report instances of its use. Most Triangle counties ban school staff from spanking kids. I think that’s a good idea, but not because I’m opposed to paddling. It worked for me when I misbehaved as a kid, but my parents administered the punishment — not the teacher or principal. In fact, it was the four-block walk home from school, knowing my teacher had called my mom and dad about my poor behavior, that actually was far worse punishment than the swats on the behind that awaited me at home.
If more parents administered punishment swiftly and consistently — whether by paddling or taking away of privileges, or grounding — kids would misbehave less at home and at school. Just this past weekend I had a conversation with a grandmother who will soon be taking care of her four young grandchildren. The kids’ mother expressed concern about whether grandma could “handle” the kids. My friend said she looked the mom in the eye and said, “honey, they mind me because they know I follow through on my warnings about their behavior.” Well said, and well done, grandma.
