The Adrian Peterson incident brings to the forefront the issue of child discipline. Being a parent is a difficult job, especially when children are disobedient, confrontational or downright naughty. But no child, or for that matter an adult, should ever be hit, spanked, quarantined in a room for more than a few minutes, denied food and water or verbally abused.
We as adults need to learn good parenting skills that allow us to manage our children with composure, leaving a child's dignity intact. Children look up to adults and parents. We need to be good role models so they will know what to do when they are parents.
I would encourage families that are dealing with trying children to seek help. Ask for counseling through the Family Services Agency, your school counselor, a private psychologist or other professional trained in family issues or at your place of worship.
Our children need to be respected, yet they must learn the limits of what reasonable behavioral expectations are in a safe, nurturing environment, not one that promotes fear and intimidation.
Sue Greenberg
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Rochester
