Spanking Promotes Aggressive Behavior Effective Alternatives to Spanking Instead of turning to corporal punishment, try some alternatives to spanking:

Use nonphysical discipline, such as a time out with a firm explanation of what she did wrong.Talk about the behavior and not the child. This puts things in terms of what is appropriate or inappropriate rather than how the child is a good or bad kid.Try to anticipate bad behavior before it happens, and step in early by talking with or distracting the child. Distraction can work well with younger children.Commend her for good behavior to encourage her to be well behaved in the future.Although it can be hard, try not to lose your temper. This shows your kids that you can handle yourself when you feel upset, and they can, too.

Spanking is a short-term solution for misbehavior. It can blur a child’s understanding of right and wrong, and break her trust and sense of security with her parents and others. Read more about why many experts consider spanking a bad idea.