Teach your children that it is better to settle arguments with calm words, not fists, threats, or weapons. Help your children learn constructive, nonviolent ways to enjoy their free time. Teach them your favorite games, hobbies, or sports, and help them develop their own talents and skills. Read stories to younger children, take older children to the library, or tell family stories about admired relatives who have made the world a better place. Don't hit your children Hitting, slapping, or spanking children as punishment shows them that it's okay to hit others to solve problems and can train them to punish others in the same way they were punished.
Physical punishments stop unwanted behavior only for a short time.
Even with very harsh punishment, children may adapt so that it has little or no effect. Using even more punishment is equally ineffective. Nonphysical methods of discipline help children deal with their emotions and teach them nonviolent ways to solve problems. Punishment that involves taking away privileges or 'grounding' should be consistently applied for realistic, brief periods. Children need to feel that if they make mistakes, they can correct them.