To Spank or Not to Spank…

When I think about having a baby girl, what comes to mind is ruffled dresses, pony tails, flowers, and someday her first kitten, dance recitals, and dollies, and eventually getting pedicures and shopping together. My husband, on the other hand, is gripped with fear about a hormonal, out of control, teenage she-monster. Now, I know there are some pleasant, well-adjusted teenage girls out there. I think I may have had a few of them as friends in high school. The question is, how do we get our little princess, who is barely approaching 1 lb. in utero, to become a respectful, intelligent, young lady.

Last night, some friends were here with their 5, 3, and 1-year-old children. I heard the 3-year-old actually use the phrase, “Mother, may I have some juice please?” (Who says “mother” anymore?) While we adults were playing a game, the 5-year-old just sat in a comfortable chair reading books. And, the baby just slept like a peaceful little angel. Wow! I want one like that! I can’t imagine these children will be anything other than friendly, helpful teenagers. This couple really needs to be teaching parenting classes or something, because most of the kids I work with would sooner kick you in the shins than sit for 45 min. reading books to themselves.

There is a faction that is trying to get a law passed against spanking. Do these people actually have kids? And, if they do, are they brats? As a former spankee, I don’t believe in spanking as a first reaction, but it can be a useful tool in the discipline repertoire under certain circumstances. Some of my most vivid memories are of being spanked, and let me tell you, I only played with matches one time! Most likely, if my toddler tries to grab a hot pot off the stove or insists on playing with electrical sockets I’m likely to slap her hand for the sheer shock value of it. Or, if she refuses to stay in time-out, I’ll likely swat her little behind to let her know I’m serious. Now, I’m pretty sure that time-outs and occasional spankings don’t equal a respectful, well mannered child: neither does giving children unlimited freedom. So, what is the key? I’d really like to know before hand, because apparently we’ll only get one performance and there’s no dress rehearsal. Well, I for one am going to try to enjoy the next 4 months. She can’t possibly get into any trouble whilst in her womb.