Giving your child a public spanking... acceptable?

Danielle - posted on 09/02/2009

I think that as a LAST resort it is ok to spank your child.... But you should for sure try other methods of disoplin before resulting in a spanking.... The last thing you want is for your child to be afraid anytime you raise your hand or anything else for that matter.... Just remember your kids look up to you and follow your guidence.... I am a stay at home mom who is looking for some NEW ideas for art time or just play time with my kiddos.... Any Ideas?????

Rachel - posted on 09/02/2009

I know when I'm out in public I have to take toys and snacks and all sorts of things just to keep my 2 yr old entertained. Unfortunately even all that couldn't stop a major tantrum in the shop yesterday. I gave her water, snacks, a toy to play with, distraction she climbed out of the trolley seat and went to sit on top of the food. I had to literally pick her up (I'm 35 weeks pregnant and she weighs 12.5kg) and hold her while she kicked and screamed and then I had to try and put her back in the trolley. I wanted to give her little backside a smack but was too scared to discipline my own child the way I normally would because people would automatically assume I abuse my child and yet they probably thought I was a terrible mother because I didn't discipline her, its a no win situation, damned if you do and damned if you don't. I think we all need to remember that if we do smack our children we shouldn't do it out of frustration and anger and we should always let our children know that even though we do smack them we do it because we love them and we want them to become respectful people as they grow up. Whenever I smack my daughter I always explain to her why she is getting a smack and afterwards I give her a hug and tell her I love her. Smacking is always a last resort so she knows that when I give her one I am very serious.

Kylie - posted on 09/02/2009

My son is nearly 17mths old so I haven't had to smack him in public but yes I believe a smack is just that, a smack, its not abuse. I was smacked as a child and I turned out fine. I have seen parents who have smacked their children and I have also seen parents who let their child throw a tandy and scream and scream in the shops for 5mins. In some ways I think my god just smack the little you know what but there will always be someone around that does not agree with how you handle the situation. The thing is that the people who speak up or comment about how you deal with your child in SOME cases don't have a clue. They do not know how that child acts at home, in public and don't know how the rest of your day or week has been with your child. You need to discipline in the way that your child will learn the rules. Kylie

Emily - posted on 09/02/2009

SPARE THE ROD SPOIL THE CHILD!!! Enough said...If its in the bible....it has to be true....

Jessica - posted on 09/02/2009

In my opinion if we are in public and my children can not behavior the way they are required to. Then we leave. And it doesn't matter where we are or what we are doing. And then when we get home they stand in time out. I don't find spanking very affective at all. I have 4 children and have do this with all of them. One thing I do before we leave the car is go over the rules. Even with the 20month old. And they know you break the rule you are leaving.

Lesa - posted on 09/02/2009

I don't think hitting a child is acceptable in private or public. They wouldn't be allowed to hit others, would they? There are better ways to get their attention, which do not enforce the notion that violence is OK. A child just learns to be afraid of consequences when they are spanked. They don't gain an understanding of what it is that they did "wrong" or why they should modify their behavior. Give your child the respect that you expect to receive.

Sandy - posted on 09/02/2009

I spank ..as a last resort. I totally believe in spanking. I have a 12 and 6 year old and if they act up ANYWHERE then ANYWHERE is where they will get a spanking. I believe people should mind their own buisiness! Yes, definately if you see someone abusing their child (not spanking), hurting their child then by all means call the police. Its really sad that parents who love their children and want the best for their children and DO believe in spanking are condemned and looked at as abusers. I was raised by loving parents and I did get spanked when I did not behave the way I should. Some people don't believe in spanking and thats their choice,I do and thats MY choice!

Jessica - posted on 09/02/2009

Quoting Candy:

I was going to garage sales with my dad and my two children(ages 3 months,at the time,and 3 years)and my 3 year old just wouldn't listen.We went to one and she knocked 3 plastic cups off from one the tables.The guy didn't care because they were just plastic and we paid for what we bought.We went to another garage sale and there was a table with glass figurines underneath a sheet for a table cloth.My daughter ran right under it and was going to pull on it.My dad pulled her out and went to go look at another table.When he turned his back,she ran back underneath.He caught her before she could pull on it and started taking her to the car.As they were walking,he gave a pat on the butt,nothing hard enough to make noise with her shorts,and she started screaming like she was beaten with a whip.We had several people take down our license plate and within the hour the cops and Human Services were knocking at our door.They checked her over and didn't see any bruises but we still had to take her to the emergency room to have her checked out.The allegations were obviously no proof and the case was closed.Point is,I think it should be o.k. but with the deadbeats that beat their kids for fun,it's impossible to discipline your child when they need it.

OMG Im am so horrified for you. What is this world coming to that people call the cops because you gave your child a small spank on the bottom. Think back to how we were raised and how our parents were raised, most of us were given a spank on the botom if we didnt behave and it did us no harm. I am so sorry that this happened to you and hope that in future people will mind their own business.

MARILYN - posted on 09/02/2009

that's a tricky question... I've been in the possition where my 4 year old is literally kicking and screaming to the top of his lungs and EVERYONE is looking at me. Sometimes it's really tough to hold your toung, ignore, and act as if nothing is happening. So yeah... i've tapped his butt in public but, that doesn't help either... he just screams for longer! You have any better suggestions?

Jessica - posted on 09/02/2009

My issue is that if you spank in public you get looked down on and judged BUT if you let your child through a tantrum, yell, scream and misbehave in general you will also have those who look down on you and judge. As parents we just cant win. I remember going shopping with my mum when I was younger and my brother was having a really bad day. She tried everything to get him to behave even gave him a time out in the middle of the store, nothing worked so as a last resort he got a smack (and there is a bg difference between a spank and abuse...In My Opinion!). Some woman walking by had the nerve to walk up and abuse my mother publicly about being an abusive parent creating even more of a seen and embarassing my mum further. She had not witnessed the previous attempts mum had made and had NO RIGHT to interfer in another womans parenting. The next time we went to town and my brother acted out mum avoided spanking him for fear of further attack and was instead attacked by some woman for no controlling her son.

I agree with taking your child to a restroom or a more private space before spanking however if you have a younger child you face the problem of them not understanding why they are being spanked. I believe that if a punishment is going to be administered it needs to be done there and then so the child knows exactly why they are in trouble. Personally I'm not a fan of the wait until your father gets home approach that I know some of my friends use (this approach my be okay for children over 10 who will remember what they have done wrong but not for 3 year olds).

Really, each to their own! Woman need to learn to be supportive of other people choices and parents rather than being judgemental. Different things work for different people. No wonder the rate of conditions like Postnatal Depression are on the rise when everything you do as a mother will be judged by those around you, even woman who dont have children. Sorry just my 2cents worth...lol!

Renee - posted on 09/02/2009

I got the best tip from a friend - pinch the skin between their first finger and thumb. A good squeeze grabs their attention and not everyone's attention around you.

Tanya - posted on 09/02/2009

never let them continue the behavior! however their is a thin line when it comes to dicepline in public! .you should head for the restroom for a bend down face to face firm warning controlling your frustration and embarassment on your way there! Never let the child see it's getting to you they feed on that you have patience try time out while your out. that means where ever that behavior took place pick a spot on the floor out of the iles and put him/her there while you browz at a safe reachable distance to get your point across that it dont matter where you are you will get time out even in a store. then discuss how it made them feel afterwards . it worked for me after 2 or 3 times. but no guarentee. a tip for your next trip is find a way that the child will feel involved like letting them grap some of the things on your list check off the list. That will distract them and make them feel big

Beth - posted on 09/02/2009

I am a firm believer in spanking if nothing else is working. Sometimes you half to tap their lil bottoms to get their attention. I do the counting thing if I get to 5 then they are in trouble. it actually seems to work. I think your kids half to have a lil fear of you to respect and listen to you.

Lisa - posted on 09/02/2009

I'm not for spanking, but if you are and you say they will get spanked, then you must follow through; however, I believe it should be done in private. Take them to the car immediately. I get so mad when I see parents screaming at their children in public.. let alone in private. Try not to take children out when they are sleepy, hungry, or thirsty and try to bring something to keep them busy to prevent any problems before they begin. Nothing makes me more mad when it's really the parents fault for keeping their children up too long and they are exhausted and then the parent spanks them. =(

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Thank you all ladies. Your imput was very helpful & interesting. You all have good valid points!! Goodluck in whatever u choose to do with your own hildren!

Chitney-Ann - posted on 09/02/2009

i feel that it is totally acceptable to spank your child and if anywhere in public. you should treat your child as if you were at home and they did something wrong. warning in itself should really be enough if they are already used to punishment and over time they should learn to be obedient in outside surroundings. of course timeouts and taking things away should always be first and that it really does depends on the childs behavior, but i consider it like this, the child's behavior reflects on yourself and whether or not you are really willing to discipline your child. a slap teaches them a boundary and that it is not right to act disrespectful toward you, since you are the parent. of course, love and forgiveness comes afterward.

Tracy - posted on 09/02/2009

Quoting Candy:

I was going to garage sales with my dad and my two children(ages 3 months,at the time,and 3 years)and my 3 year old just wouldn't listen.We went to one and she knocked 3 plastic cups off from one the tables.The guy didn't care because they were just plastic and we paid for what we bought.We went to another garage sale and there was a table with glass figurines underneath a sheet for a table cloth.My daughter ran right under it and was going to pull on it.My dad pulled her out and went to go look at another table.When he turned his back,she ran back underneath.He caught her before she could pull on it and started taking her to the car.As they were walking,he gave a pat on the butt,nothing hard enough to make noise with her shorts,and she started screaming like she was beaten with a whip.We had several people take down our license plate and within the hour the cops and Human Services were knocking at our door.They checked her over and didn't see any bruises but we still had to take her to the emergency room to have her checked out.The allegations were obviously no proof and the case was closed.Point is,I think it should be o.k. but with the deadbeats that beat their kids for fun,it's impossible to discipline your child when they need it.

Oh my I cant believe that. Some people need to mind there own business. Obviously if she was drug away kicking and screaming, by one arm being smacked repeatedly and screamed at, then there is a problem. but that only thing those people did is invade you privacy and that is appalling. I'm sorry this happened to you. Keep your head up your a good mom

Veronica - posted on 09/02/2009

Quoting Darlene:

I would probably not spank them. I would try to change my tone in redirecting them and if it does not work, I would firmly grasp the arm for eye contact to let them know enough is enough. If it still does not work, I would probably remove the child from wherever they are so that they see how fun parts are cut off. They can sit in the car or somewhere absolutely boring until they are ready to behave again. Bribing them with yummies and toys will probably prolong the problem but it can be a quick fix!

I feel that bribing your children with yummies and toys definately prolongs the problem and does nothing but send the message to that child that their behavior is acceptable and they will keep doing it. Heck if some one gave me treats and presents for throwing fits ect, I'd have one every day!! LOL. As I said earlier I always use spanking as a last resort, we go thru the line -- tell him nicely, yell, time out, and then is the spanking, and I always explain to my son why he is getting spanked before I do it. Now when Dylan does something he is not allowed and I say something, he will look at me and say "I need to listen and be good"

Candy - posted on 09/02/2009

I was going to garage sales with my dad and my two children(ages 3 months,at the time,and 3 years)and my 3 year old just wouldn't listen.We went to one and she knocked 3 plastic cups off from one the tables.The guy didn't care because they were just plastic and we paid for what we bought.We went to another garage sale and there was a table with glass figurines underneath a sheet for a table cloth.My daughter ran right under it and was going to pull on it.My dad pulled her out and went to go look at another table.When he turned his back,she ran back underneath.He caught her before she could pull on it and started taking her to the car.As they were walking,he gave a pat on the butt,nothing hard enough to make noise with her shorts,and she started screaming like she was beaten with a whip.We had several people take down our license plate and within the hour the cops and Human Services were knocking at our door.They checked her over and didn't see any bruises but we still had to take her to the emergency room to have her checked out.The allegations were obviously no proof and the case was closed.Point is,I think it should be o.k. but with the deadbeats that beat their kids for fun,it's impossible to discipline your child when they need it.

Tracy - posted on 09/02/2009

I do spank my daughter in public if I have to. The bigger fear for her is for all the people to see her getting a spanking for being bad. I will even ask her "Do you need a spanking in front of all these people ?" And she will start behaving just at the thought of it.



I worked in a clothing store for about 10 years and some children should feel embarrassed for running a around acting like maniacs and not listening to their parents, as well as their parents.



In my group of friends we have a wide array of different disciplining techniques, and from a outsiders point of view the mothers and fathers that only talk to there children about why that was wrong, seem to be walked all over. Those children are the worse behave children I've been around. I even stopped babysitting for them because the youngest will not stop biting other children. And no I will not spank other people kids so my child just had to deal with this kid. Then what did he get as a punishment from his parents " That was not very nice of you." " Would you like that if someone did that to you?"



Then per other moms comments on here we should now tell him if your good tomorrow I will give you a prize. hummmmmm No! Doesn't quite sound right.



Child abusers beat there children. They make them bleed and leave bruises. A quick swat on a pant cover behind isn't abuse. It is helping your child with boundaries and letting them know how to respect you and other people.



I my opinion being from a family where 2 other siblings and I were spanked and one not spanked, I have the perfect view of how it effects children the way they respect there parents and other people, and the way they function in society as adults. Let me simply say I will keep my children in line, with a spanking if I have to.



If you choose not to spank your kids that's fine by me, I may not agree but that your choice.

I do spank mine, that's my choice. I made mine just like you made yours.

Darlene - posted on 09/02/2009

I would probably not spank them. I would try to change my tone in redirecting them and if it does not work, I would firmly grasp the arm for eye contact to let them know enough is enough. If it still does not work, I would probably remove the child from wherever they are so that they see how fun parts are cut off. They can sit in the car or somewhere absolutely boring until they are ready to behave again. Bribing them with yummies and toys will probably prolong the problem but it can be a quick fix!

Grethel - posted on 09/02/2009

Quoting JoDale & TaMy'S Kidz:

Yes. Children are NOT adults and do not need to be put on the same level as adults...it's a BIG part of whats wrong with todays world. Let me clarify, that standing in public just spanking a child is kinda weird...but swattin their butt or their hand, and showing you mean business and that YOU are in charge, NOT them...that's fine. I have actually been in a store and seen a mother pull a belt off the rack and woop her child! That's a lil "out there" for me. Yeah, handing a kid a toy or something because their bored and your just frusterated thats cool...But, Im talking when the dang child needs to repremanded. There is a time that stands out in my head so PROFOUNDLY: I was in a mall and seen this kid just having a tantrum, all he wanted was to heard...but, because the Mother was rushed and frusterated she was literally dragging the 3yr old little boy dwon the hall. He was hysterically begging her and she was screaming at him. To me...that is more humiliating! She obviously never took the time swat his bottom or discipline him...there were no boundaries at all for either of them. I have three children, and at home they ALL know they can debate, question, get respectfully angry. But, in PUBLIC you repsect me and I will respect you. They know the guidlines and the rules...they know Iam their MOMMY & NOT THEIR dang friend! Many Blessings.

Hebrews 12:6-7: "...the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?"

Amen! I am so glad I read your post. I think you were right on, and I was reassured that I am doing pretty good.  It's not easy, seriously but the Lord intrusted us with our kids therefore even when it hurts us we must follow through and discipline.  Blessings!

Candi - posted on 09/02/2009

Sherry...



Sadly in the society we live in today spanking equals abuse. Granted there are some parents who do take it to the extreme. I however believe in spankings. I do not do it in public though due to nosy people who add there two cents. I do however mention to my children if they need to make a trip to the restroom to straighten up... LOL.. Once I mention that the issues seem to go away.. Only took one spanking for each of them and now they know that their behavior is unacceptable. :)

Kristina - posted on 09/02/2009

The first time I spanked my daughter I cried- she LAUGHED!!! So she got a better swat the next time. We don't spank in public just because people won't mind their own business. We will take her to the vehicle and give her a swat as a last result. It amazes me how some people are so against it except like i.e. they are going for the electric socket. I have news for those people-safety is about the child listening to you and minding you-not just certain things. If you tell them to stop because they are heading for the road-they need to stop. Every child is different and for some kids time-out doesn't always work. A lot of a swat is just getting their attention-and in all honestly you have to do what works. We always tell our daughter it's our responsibility to keep her safe, and in order for that to happen she has to mind. I think people need to stop being so judgemental and more helpful-understanding. There is a huge difference between a swat and abuse-and for those that don't know the difference shouldn't spank.

Nancy - posted on 09/02/2009

thanks Sherry, no worries =)

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Nancy, I wasn't trying to imply that u did let ur kids control u by any means. I'm sorry if it came out that way. You seem like a woman who knows what to do with her kids, & u should be proud of that.

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Go Nancy!!! lol. I got nothin against Lisa, but she could have choosen her words a little better. Everyone has an opinion though I guess.

Nancy - posted on 09/02/2009

I don't let them control me, it's MY choice to leave, but let me say this, 1) My kids know I mean business 2) The tantrum only happens ONCE

Nancy - posted on 09/02/2009

Quoting Lisa:

"Well, considering I feel striking your child at all to be completely unacceptable, definitely not in public. I believe that children deserve every ounce of respect that adults do. I'm sure you wouldn't want to be hit by the person you most love. And in public? How shameful and embarrassing. But it seems like you believe that spanking= discipline and no spanking=no discipline."     "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. "  Luke 6:37 NIV

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Lisa, sooo true! It is hard to spank in public & not think about how everyone else will put you down and so on. Most ppl say: Who cares what ppl think? But, I care...sometimes! lol. Again, I try NOT to spank at all, but will if needed. But spanking in public....still don't think I can bring myself to do it in fear of what others may think of me. How vain is that?? LOL> I don't mean to be & chances are, I will never see them ppl again in my life, so I wonder what's stopping me....

Lisa - posted on 09/02/2009

I just had this conversation with my husband the other day. I was at the zoo it was time for us to leave my 3 year old threw a fight, screaming yeling my name trying to bend my finger back hitting me I ignored it as long as I could and jsut kept walking to the car I also told him if he doesn't stop he will be grounded, he continued to scream Mom, everyone was looking as we walked past, I turned to him and wanted to spank him but thought God someone will say something, my husband told me I had every right to do it, I didnt but i wanted to. I think There is a difference in a spanking and abuse thasts my two cents

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Veronica... I understand completely! I haven't yet had to discipline in public with Isabel, I have had to with my other 2 when they were younger. It's def no fun, but just remember...MOST ppl appreciate that u aremaking ur kid listen & act the correct way. There will always be the one or two that disapprove, but the rest of us are saying: That's right momma!! lol

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Tamy, I have a friend that does the same thing to her son (the mall incident). That sh** pisses me off, that's just lack of parenting!! So, I so feel u on that one! I believe in spanking, but to a degree. I always try other options first becuz i do understand that children are little ppl too, only wanting to be heard. When kids are older, you can just say: Hey, u embarass me, I'll embarass u right back. But, with a 3 yr. old.. they don't understand embarass & sometimes just don't wanna listen, therefore a spank must occur! lol. Thanks so much!

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Nancy, That is an idea, but I REFUSE to let my little one control my life/every move. They are the children, not me, and I shouldn't have to give up on what I'm doing becuz they act badly. I don't think I'd leave my groceries per say, but I am def willing to leave church or park, etc. Thnaks for the imput!

JoDale & TaMy'S Kidz - posted on 09/02/2009

Yes. Children are NOT adults and do not need to be put on the same level as adults...it's a BIG part of whats wrong with todays world. Let me clarify, that standing in public just spanking a child is kinda weird...but swattin their butt or their hand, and showing you mean business and that YOU are in charge, NOT them...that's fine. I have actually been in a store and seen a mother pull a belt off the rack and woop her child! That's a lil "out there" for me. Yeah, handing a kid a toy or something because their bored and your just frusterated thats cool...But, Im talking when the dang child needs to repremanded. There is a time that stands out in my head so PROFOUNDLY: I was in a mall and seen this kid just having a tantrum, all he wanted was to heard...but, because the Mother was rushed and frusterated she was literally dragging the 3yr old little boy dwon the hall. He was hysterically begging her and she was screaming at him. To me...that is more humiliating! She obviously never took the time swat his bottom or discipline him...there were no boundaries at all for either of them. I have three children, and at home they ALL know they can debate, question, get respectfully angry. But, in PUBLIC you repsect me and I will respect you. They know the guidlines and the rules...they know Iam their MOMMY & NOT THEIR dang friend! Many Blessings.



Hebrews 12:6-7: "...the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?"

Nancy - posted on 09/02/2009

I always think that if you are in a public place and your child will not comply, (is having a massive fit/tantrum or whatever you call it) The BEST thing to do is to leave that public place. It's hard; I've had to leave a cart half full of groceries and a meal half eaten at restaurants, but I stand by my conviction. (I've also tried leaving church, a new church I wan't familiar with, and I walked strait into a confessional---not an exit!!!) So FYI, locate all exits upon entering, LMAO!!! Once you're out of the publics eye (at home, in a car or restroom for example--that is when the discipline should take place---IMHO) Also, I DO believe in spanking; "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him." Proverbs 13:24

Veronica - posted on 09/02/2009

It is embarrassing for all involved. I hate feeling like the miserable mother "who has to spank her kid in the store" but some days Dylan just doesn't listen any other way and once he gets that little wack he knows mommy is not playing.

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Girl, I knew what u meant. No need to explain details. I completely understand, never once did you come off like you abuse your child! Alll good! ;)

Veronica - posted on 09/02/2009

Sherry,

I just wanted to clearify my post. I too use spanking - and only on the bottom - as a last resort and it is not hard enough to hurt him, just enough to get his attention and let him know that I mean business.

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Veronica... couldn't agree more! I have seen my cousin spank her child in public & some lady stuck her nose in, I thought it was gonna end up in an adult fist fight!! LOL! I definately think ppl should mind their business. I mean, if you wanna shake your head, or say something under your breath... go ahead, but mind your own!! lol. I, personally don't like spanking in public, it's embarassing for al involved, but I'm not opossed to it. It really depends on the situation. If anything, I think I should be spanking more often!! lol. j.k. Thanks for your imput!

Sherry - posted on 09/02/2009

Lisa, easier said than done with the rewarding thing, I don't have $ to go spend on my daughter when she has a meltdown, nor do I think rewarding her for a meltdown is the right thing to do. I do not believe that spanking = discipline, but yes, I have spanked my children's bottoms before. And, as for myself, if I'm doing something stupid or horrible...by all means, smack me! lol. I do however keep my child busy with toys & coloring, etc. But, if she's misbehaving... I don't haul off & smack her, I use spanking as a last resort, when all else has failed. I do not by any means beat on my child. And, I don't think by spanking her butt (with a pull up on) is going to make her think I don't love her or care about her. As for spanking in public.... I do what i want with my child no matter who likes it & who doesn't, BUT... I am only asking to seek out others opinions. Not because I condone it or enjoy it.

Veronica - posted on 09/02/2009

I have no problem with spanking in public or any time. Unlike a lot of people, I think there is a difference between spanking and abuse. I want my son to know that if he is not behaving properly he will be punished. And believe me I have gotten some pretty dirty looks when I have swatted him in public.

Minnie - posted on 09/02/2009

Well, considering I feel striking your child at all to be completely unacceptable, definitely not in public.



I believe that children deserve every ounce of respect that adults do. I'm sure you wouldn't want to be hit by the person you most love. And in public? How shameful and embarrassing.



But it seems like you believe that spanking= discipline and no spanking=no discipline.



How about trying distraction, games, snacks to ward off low blood sugar, toys to keep little hands busy, etc. I know that if I've been out for a while I tend to treat myself to something to keep my own spirits up, why should my children not be offered the same?

Georgia - posted on 07/18/2011

I'm not against public spanking if its necessary. Times have really changed though. I remember one time when I was probably about six years old, I misbehaved while Mom was out shopping. I got taken to the ladies room in the store and got the spanking of my life for being disruptive. If the other ladies in the room said anything it was simply to lend encouragement to my mother.



I don't know if you would call this public spanking, but a couple of months ago I was visiting my sister when she caught her eight year old son lying to her about where he had been playing. She took him over her knee on the spot and gave him a bare bottom spanking to the point of tears. Its not the way I expected to spend a nice afternoon visiting with my sister, but I can't say it bothered me. I know how challenging kids are to raise. I respect any parent who takes the time in this busy world to discipline. As long as they don't cross the line to physical abuse, I'm for it.

Kimbeley - posted on 04/23/2010

Hmmm interesting thread. I see lots of suggestions on how to avoid smacking, and Sherry it looks like you have an argument for every one of them. Yet, in your original post you ask if it's okay to spank them in public. Yet you argue with everyone who says no it's not okay. What was the point of your question? If you are going to smack them anyway and you don't care what anyone else thinks and you aren't willing to try any of the suggestions offered, why did you start this thread?

Nikkole - posted on 04/23/2010

i dont think there is any thing wrong with spanking in public. I know that some people say dont do spank them in public it's embarrassing for them. well maybe next time they wont do it.

Kristy - posted on 04/22/2010

My 2 year old will try to throw a fit in public. I give her a swat on the backside. Usually does the trick. There is a difference between spanking and beating. I see nothing wrong with public spanking.

Rachelle - posted on 04/15/2010

we dont do public spanking b/c of "those people" mentioned previously. i ask my children if they would like to see the restroom when they are behaving badly in public. we tell them before we leave the house that that means a spanking. it usually streightens them out. or you could use the "no dessert" threat but ALWAYS follow through EVEN if their behavior improves. warning and negotiating and asking doenst work if your not tough. they behave badly then streighten up when dessert is threatened then you give it to them= a child who will act up again. be strong the first couple time and it wont happen again, trust me.

Victoria - posted on 09/08/2009

There is nothing wrong with spanking in public. I was at the state fair and my son had been acting up for 2 hours. I tried everything. So I spanked him right there. An old man walked up to me and said " Don't hit him again please". I told him to mind his own business. 36 hrs of labor. I make the rules. Children need boundaries. There a difference in abuse and spanking. My friend takes her daughter to the car or bathroom for the spanking. 3 warnings then a trip to the car and that's the spanking.