When Can I Spank My Child?

Generally speaking, you can't effectively discipline a child until they're at least 2 years old — about the same time your toddler-age kid is ready for potty training.

When should you start to spank your child?

Discipline in its simplest forms can start as soon as 8 months of age. You will know it is time when your once powerless little baby repeatedly slaps your face or pulls off your glasses…and laughs hysterically.

Can you spank a 12 month old?

Spanking is an ineffective and harmful way to address a baby's undesirable behavior. Research reveals that some parents routinely spank infants under the age of 12 months (MacKenzie et al 2015; Lee et al 2014; Zolotor et al 2011). ... So spanking doesn't teach babies to settle down.