If you're a parent, do you spank your kids? Did you ever spank your children? The Canadian Medical Association Journal says it’s time to do away with the Criminal Code’s so-called spanking law.

I couldn't agree more.

An editorial in the journal calls for the repeal of Section 43 of the Criminal Code, which gives parents and teachers a legal defence when they physically discipline children.

It says “It is time for Canada to remove this anachronistic excuse for poor parenting from the statute book.”

I couldn't agree more.

I have a son. He's eight years old and neither I nor my wife have ever spanked him. What we do is reward his good behaviour and ignore his bad behaviour. Whenever it gets to the point that he really isn't listening, he goes to his room and will stay there until he calms down.

He eventually gets the message.

I know there are parents who feel a spanking isn't that bad. But I've spoken with a number of professionals on this subject and they agree that kids can be emotionally scarred by this practice.

Communication is the key. If your child simply won't listen to you, get some professional advice. 

I want my son to respect me. I don't want him to be afraid of me.

Photo credit: aparsai.ca