I vowed I would not spank my children because I grew up in a home where spanking meant with a belt until the backs of the legs bled. Since having children, I have come to realize that there are occasions that call for it. We spanked our two children only a couple of times in their lives and that was when they were so defiant it was actually putting them in danger of hurting themselves or someone else, and then the spanking was only one or two swats--just enough to get their attention.

We have very close relationships with our children (now teens) and throughout their lives most discipline involved taking away a privilege or time out. Both are still very effective. We also talk to our kids about why they are being disciplined and, when appropriate (remember they are teens now) have them decide what the appropriate discipline would be and why they think it is appropriate. It works very well. Our teens communicate with us and we talk and discuss issues and problems. It has all been very good.

That's not to say there aren't battles. There are because they are teens, but removing privileges works well with my kids.

waiting_2_b_a_Mama wrote:

QUOTE:
do you think its right to spank children or does it just teach them to hit?

Oh dear, the infamous spanking debate

I support spanking for very bad things-things that are harmful to the child and to others. My husband and I will use spanking along with many different disciple techniques to raise our children.

I am only opposed to it when it is abusive, or when it is used for every little thing the child does.