The Children's Aid Society of London & Middlesex

No doubt about it, raising kids is challenging. Children learn by pushing boundaries, testing and experimenting. It is all part of growing up.

CAS has tools to help parents get through the tough times. Our Positive Parenting Guides cover everything from Reasons Not To Hit Children, Encouraging Good Behaviour, and How to Talk to Your Teen to Guidelines For Raising A Well Behaved Child. You will find all of these guides on this website in printer-friendly format.

What Is “Reasonable Force”?

The law currently allows parents to use "reasonable force" to discipline children. “Reasonable” depends on the situation, but any form of physical discipline that requires medical attention, or results in bruising, welts or broken skin, is illegal.

Many forms of physical punishment that were used in the past are unacceptable today, such as tying or locking children up. Using belts, electrical cords or other objects to discipline a child can cause serious harm.

Safe Alternatives To Physical Discipline:

• Positive reinforcement
• Verbal and non-verbal cues
• Time outs
• Helping children understand logical consequences
• Problem-solving
• Structure and routine
• Modelling positive behaviour
• Setting and maintaining limits
• Realistic expectations and following through
• Praise for good behaviour

Helpful Tips For Positive Parenting

Click, download and print the following tips in PDF format:

• What Is Discipline? What is Punishment?
• Discipline Without Hurting
• Encouraging Good Behaviour
• Guidelines for Raising a Well Behaved Child
• Talk to Your Children
• Your Child's Stages of Development
• Is My Child Being Sexually Abused?
• Teach Your Children About Sexual Abuse
• Who Can Babysit Tonight?
• Never Shake the Baby
• Ways to Prevent Child Abduction
• Internet Safety for Children
• Water Safety for Children
• Car Seat Safety
• Second-Hand Smoke and Children
• Fire Safety for Children