Is Spanking Ever Acceptable? What Canadian Parents Need to Know

Parenting is full of difficult choices — and discipline is one of the most debated. Among the most controversial methods is spanking. Some believe it’s a traditional, effective way to teach right from wrong, while others argue it’s harmful and outdated.

So, is spanking ever acceptable? For Canadian parents trying to raise respectful, well-adjusted kids, this is more than just a personal opinion — it’s a legal, cultural, and emotional topic worth exploring. In this article, we’ll look at what the law says, what research shows, and what modern parenting experts recommend, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your values.

What Is Spanking?

Spanking typically refers to striking a child with an open hand on the buttocks or limbs as a form of discipline. It’s often used in response to misbehavior with the goal of correcting or discouraging it.

What Does Canadian Law Say About Spanking?

In Canada, spanking falls into a legal grey area that’s been heavily debated. Under Section 43 of the Criminal Code, parents are allowed to use “reasonable force” to discipline children aged 2 to 12, but this law comes with strict limitations:

• No hitting with objects (e.g., belts or paddles)

• No slaps or blows to the head

• No degrading, inhumane, or abusive force

• No force used in anger

That said, many legal and child advocacy organizations — including the Canadian Paediatric Society and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada — have called for Section 43 to be repealed, arguing that all forms of physical punishment should be banned.

The Case For Spanking (Why Some Parents Still Support It)

While support for spanking has declined, some parents still believe in it, often for these reasons:

1. It Worked for Me

Some adults reflect on being spanked as children and feel it taught them boundaries and respect. They may see it as a short-term consequence that prevented worse behavior in the long run.

2. Immediate Response

Spanking may stop dangerous or defiant behavior quickly — like running into the street — and some parents feel it sends a clear message.

3. Part of Cultural or Religious Beliefs

In some communities, spanking is viewed as part of cultural or religious values around discipline and obedience. For these families, physical punishment may be seen as an act of loving correction, not violence.

The Case Against Spanking (Why Many Experts Oppose It)

The majority of modern child development experts, including the World Health Organization and Canadian Paediatric Society, strongly discourage spanking. Here’s why:

1. Long-Term Harm

Research consistently links spanking to increased aggression, anxiety, and behavior issues in children. It may teach kids that hitting is acceptable when someone makes you angry.

2. Damaged Parent-Child Relationships

Children who are physically punished may become fearful of their parents, which can harm emotional closeness and trust.

3. It Doesn’t Teach Better Behavior

While spanking may stop a behavior in the moment, it doesn’t teach a child what to do instead. Experts say positive discipline methods are more effective in the long term.

4. It May Escalate

Even well-meaning parents can cross the line from discipline to abuse, especially when acting in anger or frustration.

What Are the Alternatives to Spanking?

If you’re looking for discipline tools that are effective but non-physical, here are some widely recommended approaches:

• Time-outs or “cool-down” periods

• Loss of privileges (e.g., screen time or favorite toys)

• Natural consequences (e.g., cleaning up a mess they made)

• Positive reinforcement for good behavior

• Clear boundaries and consistent rules

Many of these methods fall under the umbrella of positive parenting or gentle discipline, which focus on teaching, not punishing.

What Canadian Parents Are Saying

In recent years, there’s been a clear cultural shift in Canada toward non-violent parenting. According to national surveys, the majority of Canadian parents no longer believe in spanking as an effective or appropriate way to discipline.

Still, there remains a range of opinions — especially among different generations, cultures, and communities. It’s important to have these conversations without judgment, recognizing that parenting is challenging, and support is more helpful than shame.

Final Thoughts: Is Spanking Ever Acceptable?

Whether spanking is “acceptable” depends on who you ask — but the evidence increasingly points toward non-physical methods as safer and more effective for raising emotionally healthy kids.

In Canada, physical discipline is still legal under certain conditions, but many families, schools, and child development professionals now advocate for positive, respectful approaches to discipline that build understanding and connection rather than fear.

Whatever your perspective, the key is to stay informed, intentional, and open to evolving as a parent. At CanadianParent.ca, we’re here to support all caregivers in making the choices that feel right for their families — with compassion and evidence at the heart of it.