When my son was younger, if I scolded he would listen then after sometime scolding did not work. Then I would give him a slap or two now he has become so stubborn that a good beating also does not work. I don’t know how to discipline him now?

Hitting a child is an absolute No-no. It shows lack of control and hence children lose respect for their parents. It only instills fear and anger in children or else sense of insecurity and under confidence. Even scolding should be rare. We have to discuss with children and instead of imposing our will we should also try to understand their view point and give them reason for what we feel is better. It is also important to understand that too many dos and don’ts are not a good way to educate a child. A child is a living soul and his mind has to be consulted and gradually won over rather than forced into a mechanical automaton or machine-like obedience. It requires lot of patience but then there are no short cuts to education and grooming of children into healthy responsible adults.

Affectionately,

Alok da.