In response to Melissa Ashton (Letters, 27 June), one of the reasons the physical chastisement of children is unacceptable is that it is ineffective and irrelevant in the 21st century. Punishments may result in a group of obedient 'robots', but punishments do not teach children to have a conscience. Ms Ashton, as an under-fives practitioner, is in a prime position to teach children to have consideration for others and to resolve problems without violence. Circle time and personal and social activities can provide this conscience training.
In response to Melissa Ashton (Letters, 27 June), one of the reasons the physical chastisement of children is unacceptable is that it is ineffective and irrelevant in the 21st century. Punishments may result in a group of obedient 'robots', but punishments do not teach children to have a conscience.
Ms Ashton, as an under-fives practitioner, is in a prime position to teach children to have consideration for others and to resolve problems without violence. Circle time and personal and social activities can provide this conscience training.
Early years staff should not go to work each day expecting bruises; expectations are nine-tenths of a child's behaviour. If we don't expect positive behaviour, it will never be achieved.
Jo Stirling. Leeds
