Momof2girls brought up a GREAT topic of discussion for MommyCity bloggers! Some people are afraid to use any type of corporal punishment with their children because they’re afraid of what CPS, Social Services or other child protection services may say or do. So how do you discipline your children without worrying about someone claiming you abuse them?

1. Spanking is very controversial, I know. But my kids have definitely had spankings. Some say there’s a fine line between spanking and abuse while others say any type of hitting is abuse. I have 2 adopted sisters, one who was abused as a baby. IMHO, there is a HUGE line between spanking and abuse. When a two year old gets its diaper whacked or hand smacked for doing something wrong, that’s a spank. When a two year old spills a cup of milk (given to her without a sippy cup) gets hit with a stick so hard she has blood oozing from some of the welts that pop up all over her body… that’s abuse. Even spanking with a belt is considered appropriate by some law enforcement officials. Ask my mother. A cop even offered her his belt to use on my unruly teenage sister.

2. Time-out. Time-out is a great disciplinary tool imo! With my two, I started out at 5 minutes for something as simple as needless arguing. (notice I said needless.. debating is ok.. arguing is not) If they continued to argue during their 5-minute time-out, I added another 5 minutes to it. Did I mention I have hardwood floors? Little butts get tired of sitting on hardwood floors. When I went to help resolve the issue after their time was up, if they interrupted each other or started arguing again, I added another 5 minutes and walked away. I will mediate any debate, but will not tolerate arguing.

3. Grounding. My kids don’t enjoy sports or anything like that. They never go out with friends, etc. Their big thing is video games. So any time I want to be really evil and ground someone, I threaten grounding them from their favorite video game. They behave

The key to ANY type of discipline is consistency! Once you find something that works for your child and lifestyle, keep it consistent. Make that your primary disciplinary action!

So what do you do?

Michele