Kate Gosselin has been caught on camera spanking her 5-year-old daughter Leah. It just never seems to end for the Gosselin family these days.
Jon & Kate Plus 8 mom Kate Gosselin has been reportedly caught on camera spanking her young daughter Leah – and the story was featured in an issue of In Touch Weekly magazine recently.
Apparently Kate, coffee in hand, spanked her daughter Leah recently, but photographers did not catch why Kate spanked her – nor was the actual spanking caught on camera – only the little girl grabbing her bottom and crying. Basically, there’s no real proof that Kate even spanked her. But there is an eyewitness who claims Kate gave her a good whack.
According to reports, a witness divulged to In Touch: “The girl was screaming and crying. Kate just pushed her away and walked off with her coffee. Her older sisters were trying to make Leah feel better.”
Video is below. Do you think Kate spanked Leah? And if she did, do you think it’s even a big deal? Comment here. Video below.
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I feel that the reason that our society is the way it is now is because there is such a restriction on the punishment of our young. I have 3 full grown sons and 5 grand children and there are rules that are to be followed. If we , as society, would teach our children to obey rules or be punished then maybe they would grow up to know that you can not do certain things without punishment. I was brought up with spankings and I have spanked my childrren as a last resort. But, my sons know right from wrong and have grown to be healthy young men. They were not scarred from getting a spanking, nor do i think that others are either. A swat on the behind is not abuse. I commend Kate for not changing her methods because of television. Good job Kate.
Comment by Belinda — June 27, 2009 @ 10:01 am
Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child but the rod of correction will drive it far from them.
Proverbs 13:24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.
Don’t worry about Kate worry about the one’s that don’t do what Kate chose to do. The rod of correction was ordained by God, not some crocked man philosophy he came up with recently. Spankings has been around for eons, now its a problem? Why? what’s wrong with the old way of doing things? I bet in the old days we didn’t have kids talking back to parents/authority. I bet that kids weren’t going around killing because they didn’t feel loved. I bet a lot of todays youth could have used a spanking or two along the way and we wouldn’t have a lot of the problems that today’s youth are having. In my house the kids have choices. 1. To do as they are told….or 2. Face the consequences of not doing what they are told. Good Job Kate! Don’t let go….your kid’s do have a right… a right to obey! Take a stand! You run your house don’t let the kids or anyone else run it for you. Joshua 24:15
Comment by c.laswell — June 27, 2009 @ 10:21 am
I don’t think spanking is a good form of punishment.I think that time out should be given not spanking, the reason I think that spanking should not be allowed is that an adult just can spank to hard and NOT realizing how hard the spanking was or is! Most likely the event that prompted the spankong was something silly or not even worth it, but given the way Kate is demanding she most likely didn’t even find out the whole story from her kids, she seem’s to be the type of person who doesn’t have time for her kid’s just her self and doesn’t want to pay attention REALLY to them and just make it look like it on TV!! As a parent of two children myself I find balancing them is a challenge but when something is done wrong the children are first talked to and need to repeat back to me what I said to them and what was wrong with what they did and have have to look at it as if it were to happen to them; if this form of punishment does not work then it is time out for the kid’s and then if it still get’s worst not better then something fun such as (Video Game’s or Friend’s) coming over they will loose that right for a day or two considering the severity of what the child did. I DO NOT think SPANKING is okay and maybe Kate need’s to change her way’s and first grow up and realize that here Children NEED to come first not herself.
Comment by Lisa L. — June 27, 2009 @ 10:23 am
Kate has done a wonderful job with the kids. I agree with the first poster totally about punishment.
How many could handle all this responsibility of so many kids and not think that someone is going to get a spanking at some point.
Get real. She did nothing wrong….way to go Kate!!
Comment by Alice — June 27, 2009 @ 10:25 am
A good mother uses many methods of correction with her children. Setting boundaries, explaning right and wrong to children is necessary to bring up children that respect rules and parents guidelines. Of course, blistering a child, injuring a child or allowing abusive adults to injure children is unacceptable. A swat on the bottom, when used with restraint and after a warning seem within bounds to me.
As a mother of 4 I spanked my children when they chose to break rules that mattered in our home. They are 16-30 years old today, respectful, and non bares the scars of any abuse. When I asked them recently about the spankings each reported that they did not feel threatened nor terrified by that form of dicipline. In fact they mirrored my thoughts. “Kids that are not diciplined grow up to be out of control tyrants”. They listed friends that had no boundaries when younger…they see that these same individuals on the whole are self-centered, egotistical tyrants today. With no social graces and little regard for others and their property.
Not to say that some very compliant types cannot be raise without a spanking. I am sure it happens now and then. I personally have not seen it. As a Childcare Director I have witnessed first hand what happens to children that are over-indulged, given too much latititude to do as they please and never corrected. I am not a fan of time-outs, just don’t see that they are effective.
Clearly defined rules and expectations for good behavior is a good start. My moto : He or She who does not listen…must feel. Somtimes this is a privilage taken away, an additional chore to be done, a sincere apology and sometimes it means a swat on the bottom. ( Not a beating).
My best to all parents in raising young children today. You have your work cut out for you. The influence of the media and all the extremists that wish to halt you from correcting your children, may lead to many years of frustration ahead. Do the tough work when they are young..the rewards are many.
Blessings from a former spanker
Comment by Veronica — June 27, 2009 @ 10:45 am
There is a difference between “spanking” and “beating”. For too long parents, teachers, caretakers, have been told to shower children with praise and positive reinforcement. Lets look at what that has done to our children. They grow with “expectations”. They expect to get what they want, the expect to win, they expect to succeed. Today children expect to be handed everything. They “learn” by not being spanked. They can do what they want with out consequences. And when they are in a position where they do not get, they,themselves resort to anger, crime, and have no respect for themselves nor anybody else. I do not and will not negotiate with a child. If my child receives a spank it is issued out of love, not anger. I bet if more parents spanked, there would be more respectful well behaved kids out there who will “work” for something, instead of expecting it.
Comment by Kim — June 27, 2009 @ 10:55 am
put spanking back into the schools i bet youth crime and kids getting in trouble in school will go down
Comment by tom — June 27, 2009 @ 11:10 am
In response to #2 – I think we have distorted the bible to excuse spanking as a form of discipline. The verses are often taken out of context and I think it is better to think of the culture of the time it was written – A shepard does not “spank” his sheep with a rod, he guides them with it. Guidance is what God is directing parents to give – I understand it is not easy when that is what we have been taught for centuries. But think about this point – spanking a child teaches them that if they don’t approve of someones behavior the solution is to hit that person until they stop. I was spanked as a child and it only made me more determined to get my way. Still some will decide to spank and that may fit their parenting style, but it is not biblical or “ordained” by God – there are many form of discipline. And yes children have going around killing because they did not feel loved, as early as Cain and Able.
Comment by Stephen — June 27, 2009 @ 11:18 am
i think she should do tthat shes under alot of stress
you shouldnt judge her
Comment by kate — June 27, 2009 @ 11:27 am
So many who are giving Kate a hard time, may not have been watching the show for the four years it has been on. I have and have enjoyed it. I have not liked her yelling, but when you have nine voices to be heard over, I’m thinking it is the only way to be heard. As far as the spanking, the media loves to latch onto any little thing and make a mountain out of a mole hill. Try to imagine your life with the media camped out on your door step just waiting for something to happen.
This couple was on TV for years and you never heard a word. I’m betting if the first incident with Jon had happened and the media had stayed out of it, K and J would have taken care of it on their own and things would have gone on. I blame the media for this.
Back to the spanking… If a child gets an attention, “you shouldn’t be doing that” swat on the bottom to teach or to break a tantrum or such, that boundry may be what they are looking for. I am 60 an got my share of swats when I was little. I raised my two beautiful daughters the same way. I had I warning line I would say and if they continued after that they got a swat. It was rare, and they were more insulted than hurt. I think they appreciated the boundries as they had many friends who didn’t have any and it was very eveident.
Kate has her hands full, especially if she is going to be alone most of the time now. Jon will, also, really find out what all she has been doing all these years and, well, we will see.
I am upset at the ‘new audience members’ sitting and watching licking their lips waiting for the next juicy tidbit. Where were they when it was just Jon and Kate Plus 8?
Been spanked and doing fine!!!
Comment by Avis — June 27, 2009 @ 11:32 am
If one looks at nature and the mammels of the world and we do come under that catagory, all mothers discipline their young in one way or another.
The mother dog nips her pup for being to rough on her nipple. The mare bites the foal for climbing on her in play. Or she may give it a fierce bump with a hind leg depending on the infraction.
The female wolf will snap and hold down the boisterous child who continues with annoying behavior.
A bear sow will swat her cub if required. It may take a few times for any of these creatures to discipline their children but the young do learn to behave and respect boundaries and peramaters of proper behavior.
An approbriate swat on the hiney or two is ok in my estimation and to many liberal no spank parents often end up with much larger discipline problems down the road. First time I told my mother to go to hell at age 10, I learned to love Ivory soap and there were no more disrespectful incidents concerning language from that point on.
I do suppose it depends a bit on the child and the correction should not come from a parents angry place as then there is the possibility of loss of control and reason to a degree. So that is my take on the issue.
Comment by John — June 27, 2009 @ 11:54 am
I agree with the majority of the above comments. A swat on their well padded little butts, to let the kids know that what they are doing is not acceptable, won’t hurt them. Kate has been doing a fantastic job with the kids and the media needs to stop looking for every minor incident they can find to try and make her look like a bad mom. She’s not. Eight kids is a handful to say the least and some parents can’t even seem to be able to raise two or three correctly. I was spanked when I was a kid. I think the majority of us who are normal, had some form of punishment when we did wrong, if our parents really cared who we came to be as adults. There is a huge difference between a butt swatt and child abuse!
Comment by Karen — June 27, 2009 @ 11:57 am
To #8 biblically speaking, God expects us to discipline our children! That is what it, “spare the rod, spoil the child”. If your child runs in the street almost getting hit by a car, Do you talk to them about it, and set up some discipline, Yes! If you have a 3-5 year old that doesn’t understand the concept of talking spanking is appropriate. Spanking is to correct, if we are going biblical, read Hebrews chapter 12, Who the Lord loves He chastises. Discipline is needed to correct children, and it does not work on all children, I have 5 children some needed talking others needed a spanking. What Kate did was what she wanted to do, correct her child, in the way she chose. Why on earth is that wrong?
Comment by Addie — June 27, 2009 @ 12:00 pm
I agree with spanking. Society has dictated how we should raise or children and yet when our children do anything wrong society is the first to cry out it’s due to the lack of discipline. As long as discipline is done in love there’s nothing wrong with it.
Comment by Homegirl — June 27, 2009 @ 12:21 pm
THAT IS WHAT IS WRONG WITH KIDS TODAY THE PARENTS LET THEM GET AWAY WITH WAY TO MUCH PUBLIC PLACE OR NOT CAMERA OR NOT IF YOU DONT TEACH KIDS NOW THAT CHILD WILL END UP RUNNING ALL OVER YOU. KATE DID NOTHING WRONG THEY NEED TO BRING SPANKINGS BACK TO SCHOOL I WAS ON THE END OF PADDLES ALOT BUT I AM NOT A CRIMINALE OR DRUG DEALER AND THAT IS WHAT KIDS THAT DONT GET DISAPPLINED WILL TURN OUT TO BE WAY TO GO KATE………………
Comment by KENNETH ELLIS — June 27, 2009 @ 12:37 pm
I completely agree with what Kate did or apparently did. There are many times that one will see kids at their nastiest and get away with it. For one, it’s embarrassing for the parents. Believe me, I used to be the one who felt absolutely horrified to see parents let their children have temper tantrums in the middle of the store and I felt so sorry for those children. NOT ANYMORE. Good for you Kate! You are the parent and your kids should listen to you. Kids need to know that there are consequences for their bad actions.
Comment by Torrie — June 27, 2009 @ 1:01 pm
I have long admired Kate despite her harsh criticism. In regards to raising her children I feel she has done a fantastic job. I do believe she has every right to determine what type of discipline is required for each child and utilize it. I think certain children (and each child is different!) respond to spanking when they are in a defiant dissobedient tantrum mode. It startles them and getsa their attention. Sometimes this is the only way to do this. As a last resort, I feel it is neccessary. Once the fit has dissipated communication is crucial as a follow up. I believe Kate is a great communicator and I totally believe she does this. Discipline is a form of love—without it healthy boundaries will never be properly maintained and as a child ages the ways they test them increases and can have detrimental implications.
Comment by Laura Humphries — June 27, 2009 @ 1:25 pm
OMG , Can’t beleive that spanking is being compared to child abuse. Please! I am for “talkin, talking” with kids, but without spank that doesn’t heart by the way you won’t be able to accomplish disciplline with your kids. From time to time they need that. And people who give their kids “time outs”, or punish them with day or two not doing certain activities is not enough. And stop ctitizice this woman for every little thing. I would love to see someone else raising their child with cameras present and then we can compare situations … Media is going to far and I think it is non of our business to make elefant from the fly.
Comment by lola — June 27, 2009 @ 1:27 pm
In the wild kingdom a lioness will punish her cub with a nip or a swat and that helps.I know that we as humans think that a stern word will help well guess again
Way to go Kate
Comment by Military man — June 27, 2009 @ 1:30 pm
i bet kate,Jon wish they never did there family on the tlc ch
i tell you it start’s out good but ends in a mess..the media, press it’s not worth it
i grow up in the time a common spanking didn’t matter
ever since people have killed their children because of a so call spanking is why
this is such a big deal. I dont believe Kate, Jon will harm any of there kids..
and the media needs to mind their business..all kids need Discipline, but it’s true some people dont under stand there are different forms of discipline, besides spanking, like sending a child to the room, taking the child favorite toy away from them ect.. My daughter get’s more upset when you take her video game system away.. I just think people need to understand with out discipline, youre child will not respect you..and when they get older it’ll pay off. a basic form of a spank on the butt’s a form of respect, Discipline ..it’s a big difference in beating youre child
Comment by cbs — June 27, 2009 @ 1:36 pm
I few swats now and then when children are young, saves a tremendous amount of trouble later. Teach them when they are young and they will be respectful teenagers and young adults later. I have three children, they were not spanked often, but they learned early that disobident or disrespectful behavior would not be tolerated. All three are now college age and doing well, with no emotional scars.
Kate, good job!
Comment by Vickie — June 27, 2009 @ 1:39 pm
I grew up with getting spankings when I deserved them. My parents also used other forms of punishment like time in my room, grounding, and extra chores. Maybe if parents today were not affraid to give their kids a swat on the butt when they needed it there would not be so many screwed up, disrespectful, and disobedient children in society. Way to go Kate! Good for you for sticking to your family values about raising “YOUR” children. They key word being your people. These are not your children, so really YOU NEED TO MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!!!!
Comment by Gina — June 27, 2009 @ 1:41 pm
I’m agree that spankings are good for kids these days. The “dont hurt their feelings, and give them an award for everything” idea is not setting them up to be ready for the real world. However, while most of the people here understand how it can be used as a good tool, its the people who are messed up in the head, and go to far, crossing the line into abuse that cause the problems. As for making it law. NO WAY. It would help to protect some but it would also give an upset kid the power to make a phone call that will allow the state to come in, remove the kid, and subject eveyone to… well you can guess from there.
Comment by Jason — June 27, 2009 @ 2:11 pm
There is nothing wrong with spanking!!!! I spanked my nine year old daughter when she was younger and now she knows and we don’t have the behavioral problems that people who don’t spank their kids have!!!
Comment by Kim Mercer — June 27, 2009 @ 2:11 pm
I think that is the biggest problem with the world today, we let our children get away with everything. As long as the little girl was spanked on the butt not in the face or anywhere else, then what is the problem.
Comment by Theresa — June 27, 2009 @ 2:12 pm
I saw the comment about using time-out instead of spanking. I have two grown children. The older was spanked at times and when the younger was born we decided to go with the time-out method. The result: when he was 3 or 4 years old, he walked to the edge of the living room, paused, walked to his older sister, hit her as hard as he could, and then turned to us and said he was going to time out and returned to his bedroom. We didn’t much use time-out after that.
I really hate seeing an unruly, undisciplined child out in public and I really wish more parents would take a firm stand and follow-up consistently on whatever discipline method the ‘threaten’ their child with.
Comment by Carlene — June 27, 2009 @ 2:31 pm
what is really wrong with america now is to many people are scard of spanking there children a mother of 4 myself know it is easy to be out numberd by your children when needed i will punish my children and feel it is kates birth right to do the same so those who judge will also be judged
Comment by jennifer — June 27, 2009 @ 2:43 pm
I believe in controlled spanking as a form of discipline. Children also need to KNOW the rules and the expectations of desired behaviour BEFORE they get spanked for their infraction. I DO NOT believe in ‘reactionary parenting’ where the poor child never knows when a ‘blow’ is coming. The parent must be in control of themselves at all times, and must learn themselves to properly guide and nurture their child(ren) to be an effective, confident, worthwhile member of society as an adult. This includes spanking when absolutely needed. Along with the discipline (note – not punishment, but discipline) is also the reaction of the child to recognize what they did wrong so that they know not to repeat the offense, and the opportunity for that child to receive forgiveness and love from the parent.
I DON’T believe in the government controlling every little aspect of our lives !! Because of the stupidity of many individuals we have the government MANDATING us in that we MUST wear a seat belt, we MUST wear a motorcycle helmet, we CAN’T spank in school, we MUST be warned that this or that may cause injury/death/cancer; we have studies telling us we NEED this pill, we shouldn’t eat this, we shouldn’t eat that and it flipflops every other week, on and on. Media, corporate-sponsored studies, government, and NO PERSONAL COMMON SENSE have and are, stripping away personal human rights and intelligence. And should I go on about frivolous lawsuits, of which the majority are from individuals OWN lack of common sense and a venue to ‘hit their own personal jackpot’?
Communism/Socialism governs peoples lives down to the last iota of what they can and can’t do. Yes, comrades, we’re headed there, quickly.
Comment by Lee w. — June 27, 2009 @ 2:49 pm
All you pro-spankers are hilarious. Your pop culture and pseudo biblical excuses are comical at best. Maybe if more parents actually sat down with their kids and got to the root of the misbehavior, our world would be a much better place.
I don’t spank my kids, its wrong. Own up to abusiveness and don’t hide behind justifications. That is, if you are adults as some of you claim to be.
Comment by Anya — June 27, 2009 @ 3:42 pm
It’s not bad to spank your kid if they do somthing bad you need to punishin them right then and there. Yes there is a deffrince on spaking and beating, but its not like she pulled down her daughters pants and started to beat her till she couldent breath, no she smaked her on her butt. and the only reason that people are makeing this such a big deal is because she is famous. If kate was not famous and was at the store and spanked her kid people would not of cared.
not saying it good to beat you kids but im not saying itnot bad to spank them.
Comment by DEBORAH — June 27, 2009 @ 3:46 pm
I do believe that SPANKING A CHILD IS NECESSARY when appropriate – not because you are in a bad mood and choose to take your bad mood out on them. I have noticed that parents often spoil the last child and do not raise them with the discipline the others were raised with – such was the case when I was growing up. We, the older children always caught the brunt of punishment even when it was totally the fault of the youngest one. Now we are all grown up, my parents have died (and are not there to deal with her), and that youngest one is out of control and turned into a misfit. She has been on social security for years because she kept on throwing fits on the job and could not control her outbursts. The older ones are making a good living and have raised up good children. The youngest sister could not have children because of venereal disease and an out-of-control lifestyle.
I’ve seen other families who have spoiled their last child for one reason or another; and, as as a result, that last child cannot make it in society, either.
Comment by Marjorie Kidman — June 27, 2009 @ 3:49 pm
This is all rediculous. I am sick of everyone saying how to raise our own children. I got the belt on a regular basis and it made me respect my dad. I got the soap and slap in the face when I thought I would be brave and smart off to my mom when dad wasnt around. I am normal, I am not a criminal and most of all I show people respect. I also think it had a big part with me being able to stand up for myself and protect myself and those I care for because it teaches you respect but it also teaches you not to be afraid of getting hurt as much as these kids today are. My wifes 12 year old daughter acts like a 3 year old every time she gets a little scratch crying and stomping she is in so much pain, give me a break. This is the same kid that wont do a thing her mother tells her to do and answers with a F. U.. They are so tough but yet so afraid of everything. Kids today need a good swat on the arse even these little 16 year old wanna be gangstas as they think of themselves. What more will put them in their place than to have their tough little friends seeing them get a spanking on the porch right after they tried to show off and tell their parents to screw off. Murder, violent crimes, robbery, and many other crimes are at an all time high and if you look into it you will see it started just 5 years after the governments of the world stepped in and said you cannot lay a hand on you child. But all you liberals out there, isnt it ironic? Dont you think? You people have made the people you all fear now! Just remember though, they are cowards but they know you are too, whos going to call out who first? Are you going to let a 15 year control your life
Comment by John Soules — June 27, 2009 @ 4:32 pm
The other subject is I am tired of people who defend Kate. She is a tirant, evil witch spelled with a capital B! The comments above, you show me when she ever spends time with her children, its always Jon. He is always holding them, he is always changing diapers, putting them to bed, getting them up in the mornings, cooking meals, picking up the trash. All she does is follow behind telling him everything he does wrong. Funny how her cheating twice in the last year didnt get the media attention and there was proof of hers, his is speculation! People keep saying that these bad things ae just whaat the cameras show. HELLO!! wake up, when filming its the best time to be on your best behavior and they cannot ever find any momment when she is being a loving mom or a caring wife, she is always shopping and at the damn spa. He quit his job years ago to raise thesse kids because she is just too busy. The rare moment she does have the children, she has three nannies with her so she can do her own thing. When he has them doing something, there are no nannies! Ever since that ecentric witch had he husband give Kate the free surgery to get rid of the loose skin she became a different person and no longer was there for her family. That was proved by “Oh doctor can you do my boobs too for free” Be happy someone just offered you a $15000 gift for nothing or no reason other than you are on t.v.. She is a sad person and o horrible mother so NO she should not spank her kids, not because I dont believe in spanking but to the children, she is a stranger. Go to another book signing for another month and get out of all of their lives so they can move on. The children will never love you anyway because of the show, they will always have proof that you single handidly destroyed their family and drove their daddy away!
Comment by John Soules — June 27, 2009 @ 4:45 pm
I trully believe she done the right thing! way to go mom!!!!!!!! i was raise with spanking and the result are?.. Ive grown to respect all!!! who set rules over me!!!. I was grown in a house whole of three boys and one girl and as the oldest i was spank and disipline, the other siblings didnt get spank just talk too and as a result their bad!!!! and the talk back to mom (something i fear and never dare to do lol) they dont listen to authority and respect it. I am currently a police offficer and kids in our days are ….. well let just say they have no direction… ive seen some, how should i say bbbbaaaaddddd!!!!! kids they dont respect authority and i realize if the dont respect their parents they wont respect authority. That why kids in our days are in gangs or drop out of schools and drugs, cause parents cant practice tough love without people or government saying something. In conclusion spank ur kids just dont kill them lol!!!
Comment by Dwayne — June 27, 2009 @ 5:00 pm
i think that is absolutely right to spank your children to let them know that what ever they have done is wrong, and should learn from that. because if you dont spank your kids, they might know what they did was bad, but without dealing with the consequences they think that they can do it again, and knowing that they will only get a slap on the wrist. i believe that is why most kids these days are disobedient to their elders and scream and yell at their parents. IT also mentions this in the bible.
Comment by Anastasia — June 27, 2009 @ 5:01 pm
I disagree with this. 100 percent. Kate had NO need to spank 5 year old Leah at ALL. I stared spanking childeren when they were 8. In my oppion Kate is not a good parent at all. If you see the pictures of this insident you will see kate on her cell phone ignoring the kids. Where do the kids seek confort? The body gaurd. GOOD John cheated on her. She deserves it ALL. When I saw this I wanted to spank Kate off her ass on that chair of hers. Kate sign that divorce and give Jon the kids but wait you can’t! There the reason you are “Famous.” The kids will NEVER LOVE YOU. Kate is the symbol of the B word. And you other women up there commenting “Way to go kate!” and ect. Are all single women that were cheated on by someone.
Go to hell kate.
Comment by Aj — June 27, 2009 @ 5:02 pm
Back in my day my friends and i (when there were still actual family units) all recieved spankings. I never thought of it as abuse I would be given fair warning.
School was no different when you could recieve swats for being out of line. But thanks to all of the so called child experts who suddenly fell out of the skywe now sue the schools if they are looked at wrong. Yes i know there is horrific child abuse that occurs it was in my day. But discipline showed us right from wrong
Comment by Don Martin — June 27, 2009 @ 5:03 pm
To spank or not to spank? The Bible says “spare the rod and spoil the child” bottom line is the good Lord tells us that this should be done, not on an everyday basis, but on a discipline basis. My 11 yr old son loves to get alittle mouthy in front of people expecting me to sit back, won’t happen. It took 2 times: 1st time, my mistake I DID NOT make it clear, that my wife and I will have respect, when we say ” stop, quit, don’t, or no” . Also respect for others, a most………….. Correction is not abuse and abuse is not correction……….. I know, with divorced parents, I had it from both sides, correction and abuse. Popping a child in the mouth or on the butt for disrespecting is not abuse, and beating a child until they can’t sit or punching a child in the mouth IS NOT correction. THe difference between right and wrong is taught early. All to many times the courts want to say it’s all the same, they are wrong. Respect is not fear and fear is not respect, two totally different things. What happens when your child gets in trouble with the law and gets disrespectful, and out of line with the officer. He or she get a free ride to jail. Then they get mouthy with the judge;…….. stiffer punishment, longer sentence, higher fines, etc…..Then want to look at the parents as if we are the cause…..If they would let us correct our children, well you get the picture. I am 40yrs old and grew up in a time when your neighbor could tear your ass up if needed, then when you got home you got it tore up again……………..How’s that for born American, but Southern by the Grace Of God.
Comment by David Bishop — June 27, 2009 @ 5:21 pm
some times thats just what they need a good spank on the ass im not saying beat them , but a good spank when they need it is good parenting not defending kat and a good mother she is not
Comment by lisa — June 27, 2009 @ 5:26 pm
I have raised seven children and their ages span 18 years from the olderst to the youngest. I also ran a home daycare for 23years so I have been through may decades of raising children. I will say this you should never judge someone in how they raise their children untill you have walked a mile in their shoes. Each child is different and we have no idea as to what all is going on in real life with this family. I we know is what the media wants us to know and the media will only put out what the public wants which is to see usually the worst of people. How would you like TV cameras following you on top of trying to raise all the children and work on a marriage. Family life and marriage is hard enough with out the public watching your every move. I am not sure they understood what they were getting into when they agreed to do this show. Most of us would think this might be a good idea when you see this carrot dangled in front of you.
For those that say she is a bitch maybe having people comment on every aspect of your life can make a person become someone they never thought they would be. As for her being on the phone when a child was trying to get her attention I beleve we all have been quilty of this at one time or another. For her going to the spa it may be the only quite time she has to herself and who are we to deny her that. I know when running the daycare I lived for nap time for some quite time.
Before we judge someone else we need to make sure that we are doing everything perfect in our life and I know of no one that is perfect including me.
Comment by Melody Martin — June 27, 2009 @ 5:35 pm
It’s about time a parent disciplines their kid. That’s why this world is full of hate and crime.
Comment by Brianne — June 27, 2009 @ 5:43 pm
Good for Kate! I’m glad she had the courage to love her child enough to discipline her. Whose business is it, anyway? The government has made a mess out of most everything it handles, and when it steps in to a parent’s realm, it makes a mess out of that, as well.
Comment by Bet — June 27, 2009 @ 6:18 pm
I cannot believe the majority of people believe that spanking is ok.You have to have patience with children.Spanking is the easy way out.Without going into a long drawn out speech, just think about what your teaching your children when you raise your hand and spank.Do you teach them when they get angry to hit another child?No because it’s wrong… Right!Try having patience,and teach your children there are consequences behind their actions.There has to be punishment,but please do not teach your children to be angry adults,because i see enough anger in people that were spanked as children.Don’t take the easy way out.If your going to have children take the time to have a plan for them misbehaving.
Comment by Patience — June 27, 2009 @ 6:40 pm
God is not gonna change his word not for me and not for you…. you spare the rod you spoil the child just look around our world a generation of vipers is what we have become
Comment by javous — June 27, 2009 @ 6:46 pm
Enough already, Kate has gotten to be so hateful, she crossed the line – I feel very sad because my entire family started really liking and admiring her, now she has become another celebrity with the wrong values…her oldest twins are so arrogant and they speak to her like they were over 21 years old…I don’t want to imagine Cara’s attitude when she becomes a teenager, spoiled rotten.
Sadly, this entire show will be out of America’s heart shortly, people get tired of watching so much arrogance and redicule seeing Kate’s entire change, physically she stopped being a mom to all these kids to become a sex symbol. Just by looking at her, it is silly. I feel embarrassed so I stop watching. Who cares, the sponsors will care in time…
Comment by Annie — June 27, 2009 @ 7:07 pm
I agree with most everyone that has spoke their minds. I agree the world would be a better place if the parents would take control of their kids. I also agree there is a difference between discipline and abuse. Spanking a child(if needed) teaches them respect and that everything isn’t without consequences, you screw up and do something wrong there are consequences. Thank you for trying to put some values in the world.
Comment by Janet — June 27, 2009 @ 7:11 pm
Why doesn’t Kate have the right to correct her children? We do not know what was going on, but I would be willing to bet the little girl was being sassy and disruptive. I have seen those children and screaming seems to be the method of conversation among them. A swat on the rear is not cruelty. It is called t4eaching right from wrong. More cowering parents should do it and spare the rest of the world the juvenile delinquents they are loosing on the rest of us. I say bravo for Kate.
Comment by June — June 27, 2009 @ 7:39 pm
Who cares if she spanked them, at least she didn’t count to ten that turns into 20, or give them warning after warning. What good is a parent to be a back seat parent; then to be right up on the child. By the time you count to ten, twenty times, they’ve forgotten what they done.
But the worst thing you can do is to tell someone else how to raise their child. Stay out of it its none of your business.
Comment by tabitha — June 27, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
to patience
we are all angry because we are pissed off at the spoiled kids
you don’t have to be angry just because your showing some discipline. as tabitha stated counting to 10 becomes 20 and on an on i know when my child was five sitting her down to reason please
Comment by Melody Martin — June 27, 2009 @ 8:03 pm
I have 2 boys and have spanked them maybe once or twice at the most because they really needed it. If a child is misbehaving, then yes it’s good for them to know that you mean business and punishment in some mild form is needed. I don’t think that spanking is the same as being abusive, and a swat on the bottom is ok if you cannot get their attention another way.
My father spanked me one time that I remember and evidentally it worked, because I stayed out of trouble. I knew to never misbehave or talk back or I’d have to deal with dad over the matter! There is nothing wrong with having an aggressive parent in control. Too many young kids think they have the control and there is no respect these days from them.
Comment by Tammy Smeller — June 27, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
I’m 75 years old and I think I know a little more than some of you weak kneed, lilly-livered, panty waist liberals who’ve been spouting off about how bad it is to spank your kids. When I was in school the worst things that happened was chewing gum in class and smoking in the bathrooms. You know why? Because kids got spanked when they needed it and were taught respect for their parents, their teachers, for police officers and just adults in general. Now we have Dr. Spock arriving on the scene telling everyone it’s terrable to spank your kids because it warps their little personalities, and everyone said,”hum, that’s good, we’ll try that” and all the liberals joined the bandwagon. Discipline was taken out of the schools, and we turned them all into little monsters with no respect for anyone especially their teachers. You want to know why so many good teachers have given up teaching? Yep, you got it. Can’t discipline the little monsters and there is pandamonium in the classroom. and then it worsens. A couple of guys in Colorado and Paducah, Ky and a few other schools around the country, with no respect for the lives of their fellow classmates and teachers decide to get rid of some of them. Now don’t tell me You’re not supposed to spank children, I know better and you should too. In my day children got spanked, and so did I and so did my kids. They turned out to be good kids and better adults. I’m proud of my kids today. Can you non-spankers say the same?
Comment by Jim — June 27, 2009 @ 8:21 pm
Oh, I wish someone would come over to the house next door to us and spank the grown up 50+ year old man that wears his undies only out to his hot tub in public and in front of my kids. Maybe he needs to learn some respect towards his neighbors (right hot tub man). lol!!! Maybe his parents should have spanked him when he was 5.
Comment by TATE — June 27, 2009 @ 8:31 pm
Wow…….It is so utterly dumb that people are talking about this AND taking pictures of it. If a child is TRULY being abused, step in! Otherwise……everyone mind their own business.
Comment by emily — June 27, 2009 @ 8:49 pm
Yes,Melody, just what i expected from the responses.Counting to 20 is a childs game.I totally agree that there must be punishment for ill behavior,but we are the parents,and it is very important for us to teach our children, not give them double standards.It takes being the adult,and comming up for the right punishment for each child is different.I know its the easyist thing to do,but not the best.If we are to bring up well rounded children we must think about what is honestly best for our child,but remember to invade anyones person is a no no so,it’s no different with a child.There are so many parents who spank out of anger..how can you not.My whole point was to just ask people to think about it the next time you spank your child! Take a look at their face.I personally used many techniques with my children some were more effective than others,but i kept trying until i found what worked.
Comment by Patience — June 27, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
The reason our society is the way it is is by NOT punishing our children at an early age to teach them right from wrong. Not every child get’s punished in the same fashion, but as a parent you have to do what is needed to keep order in your household and in public. There is no way my child would have ruled me or my husband. They knew as soon as they understood what to do and what not to what was expected or there is consequences. I am 44 and my generation is what screwed things up more. Some of us are still old fashioned and believe in “sparing the rod you spoil your child” and “train up a child in the way they should go and when they are older will not depart from it” It’s just that simple!
Any body’s child that would come to my house even to this day will get treated as mine. All I ask is respect. Without discipline there is none.
That’s also why they kill each other at young ages…. they don’t have respect…..
so much to talk about and not enough time
Comment by Barbi — June 27, 2009 @ 9:05 pm
As an educator, I can pick out the children in my classrooms who have boundries imposed upon them. Time outs may be fine for some; but how do you do a time out in the Walmart? A nice firm swat on the bottom would do wonders for many children, and has for mine. I rarely ever have to spank, simply because they know I will. Many do not teach our children accountability and do them no favors by not teaching them that we are the adults and parents, and they are the children.Many of your children would learn more and enjoy their classroom time more if it were not for those who obviously have never been spanked, disciplined, or taught any manners. We are too busy trying to buy boats, houses, and the latest automobiles; that we neglect the most important gift God placed in your life.
Comment by Karen — June 27, 2009 @ 9:22 pm
definatly spanking should be allowed a swat on the rear end would teach most of today’s youth a lesson.
Comment by ninja — June 27, 2009 @ 9:22 pm
I believe in giving a spanking to child, but not a beating. I have 3 son’s an I spanked them when the last warning to what they was doing wrong. It wasn’t so much if they was acting up , but sometimes it was doing something very dangerous to there self or someone. I refrain from giving my son’s a spanking as long as I could. When the last warning was givin out , then the one son that was warned for the last time. He knew what he was fixen to get, which that also taught him more of , right from wrong. It really hurt me worst, to give out those spankings than it did to either son. My heart felt like it was going exploed, the pain in side me was so unbearible. That is why to most parent’s , they hold out as long as they can from delievery a spanking. My older 2 son’s become hard worker’s, have a strong fountation among there self’s. My youngest is a teenager, so far he’s been a good boy. There will be a day he will fall, an I’ll be there, as I was for my older son’s.
Comment by Mike — June 27, 2009 @ 9:29 pm
Are you kidding me? First the fact that anyone gives a shit about these people is astounding, second of course she should be allowed to spank her kids, and third, it’s none of our business anyways. Get a life people. Seriously.
Comment by Kyle — June 27, 2009 @ 9:29 pm
Unbelievable. It is horrifying to read all the posters on here trying to justify their terrible, out-of-control behavior. It is NEVER NEVER NEVER all right to spank a child. All this drivel about the difference between “spanking” and “abuse” would make me laugh if it wasn’t so sad. Hello! Spanking is abuse. It doesn’t matter if you were spanked and your cousin was spanked and all your friends were spanked and your neighbors were spanked….It is NOT O.K. Hitting other human beings, especially children who cannot defend themselves, is NOT O.K. Children who were abused often grow up to be abusers. And that is what has happened to all of you idiots. And yes, I raised three children who were never spanked, and GUESS WHAT??? They are all decent, honest, respectful, contributing members of society. It all happened without their father or me taking out our frustrations on them by beating them. There is a reason the United States is one of the most violent countries in the world. Think about it.
Comment by renae — June 27, 2009 @ 9:45 pm
I dissagree with the last post completly. I grew up in a generation of a spank when I was greviously wrong. I look at the NEW neighborhood and I am totally dissheartened. No one is in charge anymore…except the kids. I never thought that a society could be child driven but here we are. Angry, obnoxious,hate filled kids who have not a bit of respect for anyone.Killing raping guntoting nasty bunch of boudryless children running the world supported by boundry-less parents all living in a crumbling world of self deserving expectation. Shame on all of you !
Comment by hymie — June 27, 2009 @ 10:23 pm
Dear Renae,
I also have three children. A 22 yo daughter/college graduate, a son who is a junior in college and a son to become a freshman this fall. They were not spared a spanking when they deserved it. Don’t confuse controlled discipline with what you claim is our frustration. I don’t just love my kids, I am in love with my kids. That is why I felt it my obligation to spank them if it was needed. My kids are involved in Church and volunteer work and could not do anything else to make me any more proud of them than I am today. The love that all of us have for each other is what separates your interpretation of abuse from my interpretation of family. My kids get this and have validated any spankings by thanking their mom and me for caring. There is you difference.
Comment by mark — June 27, 2009 @ 10:26 pm
“I’m 75 years old and I think I know a little more than some of you weak kneed, lilly-livered, panty waist liberals who’ve been spouting off about how bad it is to spank your kids.”
No, sir, you do not! Actually, it’s quite staggering how little you know.
Not spanking a child, but instead taking the time to teach a child acceptable behaviors, is a sign of parental strength, not weakness. Modeling the kind of behaviors that are less barbaric, and more civilized teaches that it’s possible for us to live in a more peaceful way. We cannot solve our problems by hitting each other. Not adults, or children. No matter how long you’ve lived, or how old you are, if you believe a spanked child is a more disciplined child, then it’s time to peal off your monkey suit and learn some new tricks.
Apparently, we as a species, have still not developed enough to have learned that “sparing the rod, therefore spoiling the child,” is out-dated rhetoric. Spanking is a violent act towards a living being who is incapable of defending themselves, or of declaring their rights as human beings. A 3-year-old has the right to not be hit, in any way, shape, or form. They have the right to not be hit by a 75 year old bully.
Spanking is not discipline. Spanking takes place after an unacceptable behavior takes place. Discipline is something that requires routine and time, before bad behaviors develop. Routine is important to help children understand what is expected of them.
Children deserve our respect. If they are respected, they will respect back. I think spanking should be outlawed. I think parents should at first get a warning, then a fine, then some time away from the family while getting psychotherapy.
Please, stop spanking children? Please?
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 10:52 pm
Omg…seriously people?? Isn’t there something better to report? Sounds like someone is grasping at straws and trying to make something out of nothing. Don’t pretend the writers of these articles dont spank their children. And come on now…”coffee in hand”?? So it was a ONE HANDED spanking ON HER BOTTOM? Better call Child Protective Services for that vicious incident. Jeez. Try reporting something that people really want to know. And to the comment above, u really dont believe that spanking is abuse now do you? You make me scoff at your comparision that spanking is equivalent to “beating”. Don’t act like you think the two are equal. We all know different. Who’s the “idiot” now?
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 10:53 pm
Mark,
We will have to agree to disagree. Your kids have thanked you for spanking them? They interpret that as “caring?” Wow, that just blows me away. My guess is that you have shown caring and love in enough other ways that the spankings have receded in importance. But are the memories of the fear, shame, and anger they felt still buried deep down in there somewhere? Yes.
Hymie,
You are obviously a very fearful, frustrated person. You will be happy to know that after reading the posts regarding spanking on this site and many others, I have concluded that being spanked is still the norm for the majority of our children here in the U.S. 85% of the hundreds of thousands of people taking online surveys and polls on spanking say that they spank their kids. So we will have to blame our childrens’ “anger, obnoxiousness, hate, disrespect, killing, raping, and general lack of boundaries” on something other than lack of physical punishment. It seems there is still plenty of that to go around.
Comment by renae — June 27, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
P.S….Kyle’s got the right idea. Who cares.
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 10:56 pm
“definatly spanking should be allowed a swat on the rear end would teach most of today’s youth a lesson.”
That is a stupid statement.
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 10:56 pm
To Mark,
I completly agree with you. There is a huge difference ! Someone needs to stand up here and stop being moronic. Let me speak simply here. Lets all stop spanking, lets just have WAR ! Did anyone consider that war is a complete un-acceptable breakdown in coumunication ??? We are having that now with our greatest oportunity for the future ! Our children must be educated in ALL aceptable forms of comunication. Hey Americans,you want to effect change ? take a very serious look around your back yard. Never mind what Brad and Angelina are doing, they are changing nothing ! These people live in a fantsy world and they can afford to do that. They do not do one damn thing important but to entertain my fantsies ! Everyone of these people are mearly court jesters. Once in a while, one of these people stands out and with thier infintite wealth, makes a difference. Not many I might add.
Comment by hymie — June 27, 2009 @ 10:57 pm
“Omg…seriously people?? Isn’t there something better to report? Sounds like someone is grasping at straws and trying to make something out of nothing.”
Nope, this is the most important entity discussed on these forums. Our livelihoods thrive on the lessons learned here. Obviously you enjoy being dumb and will continue to be dumb.
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 11:00 pm
I personally think that Kate is the that needs to be spanked. If I were to talk to and treat my husband the way Kate has on and off camera, I would expect him to cheat and want to leave. Hell that is basically throwing him out the door isn’t it..All the money and fame that she has received has went to her little blonde,brown haired head. I just feel so sorry for those children.. Maybe Jon wll get custody..And yes I believe in spanking (not beating) my children. When I was a little tyke my butt got swatted many times usually with what ever my grandparents and parent could reach at the time. That is what is wrong with the children these days, they don’t appreciate anything it is give me, give me, give me. Spank your child, use disipline and maybe we wont have so many teenagers on drugs and pregnant..
Comment by Jessica Harp — June 27, 2009 @ 11:01 pm
Your livelihood thrives on whether Kate Gosselin spanks her child? Wow. And IM the dumb one?? This is how you learn your life lessons??
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 11:03 pm
Dear Renae,
My kids are sitting here with me right now and had a good laugh at your reply about fear, shame and anger. They all just said that fear, shame and anger are reserved for those that don’t have a relationship each other. Go figure.
Comment by mark — June 27, 2009 @ 11:10 pm
“Your livelihood thrives on whether Kate Gosselin spanks her child? Wow. And IM the dumb one?? This is how you learn your life lessons??”
UNBELIEVABLE!
I’m talking about how spanking affects society as a whole. IDIOT!
I’ve never seen this show. I’m responding to the act of spanking. PERIOD!
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 11:11 pm
Donna,
Every single one of your comments have referred to how “stupid” or “dumb” or “idiotic” everyone else is. That must make you feel really smart.
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 11:12 pm
“Every single one of your comments have referred to how “stupid” or “dumb” or “idiotic” everyone else is. That must make you feel really smart.”
Not everyone.
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 11:14 pm
Everyone that doesn’t agree with you. I hope for your sake you find another way to learn how to live life other than on a discussion thread.
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 11:15 pm
I’m very rarely on any discussion board. But this one regarding spanking is something I’ve advocated against for many years. I did alot of research in college on spanking and children. One in particular was based on children in different cultures around the world and it’s impact on familes and society, and what’s more acceptable between the cultures. This is a subject close to my heart.
Comment by Donna — June 27, 2009 @ 11:20 pm
Mark,
Your three grown children are all just sitting around right there with you now? Really? And they all just said that “fear, shame, and anger are reserved for those that don’t have a relationship with each other”? Amazing. Well, I’m glad you could have a good laugh at my expense. You seem like a nice person. Good luck to you.
Comment by renae — June 27, 2009 @ 11:23 pm
Honestly. I think about it this way.. When we spank our children we are teaching them it is ok to hit but yet when they hit others we yell at them or hit them on the butt for it.. I don’t believe it should be allowed and she should of been expecially careful since it looks like she was out in public.. It is never ok to hit someone no matter what.. That is like telling adults ok you did something bad so I can hit you for it.. No..
Comment by nyob — June 27, 2009 @ 11:27 pm
Oh come off it. We all need to butt out of these peoples lives, for goodness sake. Do you realize how petty this is? Maybe if we would leave this all alone, they can go back to being a loving family!
Comment by Denise — June 27, 2009 @ 11:29 pm
Listen …If the great states of Texas and New Mexico can “swat” my child with a paddle (a weapon) ….you best believe I can spank.
And Donna…you sound as if you might have some anger issues…so instead of spanking your children …I bet you verbally abuse them. Do you know that verbal and emotional abuse leaves a bigger scar than any spanking could or would.
Check yourself into some theropy girl.
Comment by Gloria — June 27, 2009 @ 11:34 pm
Oh. My mistake. I could have sworn you said your livelihood thrives on the lessons learned here. And I did a lot of research in college myself. There are arguements for every side of this issue and all claim they have the evidence that their side is right. I resent being referred to dumb and idiotic. I could claim the same about you just because you dont agree with me. But I’m educated enough to know that there are always two sides to every issue. And both are CERTAIN that they are right. I was spanked as a child when I needed it and just because I was, doesn’t mean I was harmed emotionally or psychologically. I learned to respect my parents and knew that they were in control of me….and not the other way around. My parents rarely had to spank me because I knew that they would in fact do it. I have never felt fearful, shame, or anger as a result of my parents spanking me either. If anything…I respect and thank them. For teaching me right from wrong and showing me there are consequences to every action. There is a fine line between spanking and abuse. A parent should be aware of this always. But just because someone doesn’t agree with you doesn’t make them stupid or dumb. And furthermore, it doesn’t mean that they are necessarily wrong.
Comment by Kmull — June 27, 2009 @ 11:36 pm
Hear, Hear Kmull !
Comment by hymie — June 27, 2009 @ 11:54 pm
Alright children
Thats enough from all of ya
now get to bed fore i blister your behinds
Comment by Don Martin — June 28, 2009 @ 12:04 am
You’re great Don!
And since you said so…I think I’ll do just that
Comment by Kmull — June 28, 2009 @ 12:07 am
“And Donna…you sound as if you might have some anger issues”
Not issues, but issue. I have alot of anger when it comes to reading that big people hit little people. But that has nothing to do with my kids. I don’t hit them and they don’t hit me. Not ever.
“I resent being referred to dumb and idiotic.” Hmm. Does this happen to you often??
“But I’m educated enough to know that there are always two sides to every issue.” Apparently, you’ve been educated beyond your intelligence. There are two sides to every issue in the world, except for hitting children. There’s only one side. It’s wrong.
Comment by Donna — June 28, 2009 @ 12:07 am
Well that’s your opinion. And you know what they say about those.
And no…it doesn’t happen often. That doesn’t even make sense. And you’re delusional to compare spanking to “hitting”. You know in your little mind that these are two completely different things. I agree that you have anger issues. You must have learned coping skills from a discussion board too. I’m done with you. You’re not worth my time.
Comment by Kmull — June 28, 2009 @ 12:11 am
Alright thats enuff from you kids
Now yall get to bed afore I paddle your behinds
Comment by Don Martin — June 28, 2009 @ 12:17 am
I cannot believe that so many people is thinking Kate has committed “child abuse” by spanking her child.. and this spanking being a swat a the butt compared to what a lot of people grew up with had to go out and get there own switch! anyway walk a mile in her shoes before you voice your opinion.. I do not agree to anyone beating their child and I am sure KAte would never agree to beating children but cast the first stone if you have never did anything that would be considered child abuse. but you thought it was ok.. I would love to argue with you…
Comment by victoria Day — June 28, 2009 @ 12:17 am
Hehe!
“Well that’s your opinion.” Nope. It’s a fact.
“And you’re delusional to compare spanking to “hitting”.” Spanking isn’t hitting? Hmmm. They’re not comparable?
Comment by Donna — June 28, 2009 @ 12:21 am
How can you say it’s a fact? I can research this topic any day of the week and find evidence for and against spanking. Did you suddenly become the all knowing? And you alone have the answer to this issue? That’s utterly amazing Donna! I bet you have the answers to world hunger and world peace too. Oh wait….there’d have to be a discussion board for you to consult with first. You really have run out of points to make, and as I see it…you’re the only one making any enemies on here. That should tell you something about yourself and your “facts”.
Comment by Kmull — June 28, 2009 @ 12:26 am
As far as a parent having the right to spank their child goes.. of course they do! I didn’t carry my kids around for over 9 months and dedicate my life to them for someone else to try to tell me how to correct them. I don’t believe in child abuse or striking from anger but there is a big difference between abuse and a swat or spanking on the behind.. and hey.. I’ll throw this out there for all you finger pointers.. I have also given my kids a pinch on the arm while out in public! OMG! Yes, it is true.. a little pinch to get their attention to stop whatever it is that they are doing.. yes, I say something first.. if I’m ignored.. I just might give a pinch.. serves as a reminder! I’m not leaving the store to solve a behavior issue! I have 4 kids, what method of correction used depends on the kid.. I never had to spank 1 of them, I would send him to his room and tell him to come out when he could tell me what he did wrong and it always worked.. he’s 17 now and I still use that method.. I ground him to the house and don’t give him a time frame.. I unground him when he takes responsibility (meaningfully) for his actions.. I get compliments from teachers, the principal, neighbors for his respect, honesty ect. Time outs may work for some kids but the few households I have seen that strictly use time outs.. well.. how can I say it nice.. I don’t want to be around their kids for very long periods of time.. their behavior is unacceptable to me. I get compliments on all 4 of my childrens behavior.. they aren’t perfect and they don’t have to be.. they haven’t been spanked often but a parent can not let their child walk all over them.. and any parent that allows that isn’t doing society any favors. To those who think a spanking is child abuse.. should people with children just build a room with metal bars and confine the child to that room? Parents love their children, although there are some cruel, ignorant parents out there that do abuse their children, I think that most parents correct their children because they love them and want them to grow up and be a positive contribution to society. So.. as my mother use to say.. keep your noses in your own backyards
Comment by Deb — June 28, 2009 @ 12:57 am
which mother doesnt spank her kids. the problem of our young generatiion is complete lack of discipline for wrong doings. there is nothing wrong with what kate did and i would do exactly the same if i were in her shoes. people should get real and be honest to themselves for once, and leave this family alone for goodness sake.
Comment by ethel — June 28, 2009 @ 12:58 am
i got spanked occasionally, as a child. as an adult, it wouldn’t occur to hit someone. i am respectful, and hard working, calm, rational and not quick to anger. my parents never spanked me out of anger. they waited until they, themselves were calm. they talked to me, to teach me also. time out would never have worked with me as i enjoy time by myself, always have.
Comment by c.b. — June 28, 2009 @ 1:03 am
EVERYONE Just needs to mind there own . Ilive in a small town and every one knows everything. me i dont care how any one raises there kids My 5 kids didnt come out of them.the problem with america is people are to busy getting into other peoples problems.
Comment by kris — June 28, 2009 @ 1:10 am
I am sorry I feel we should all mind our own damned business…The world is screwed up because parent’s aren’t allowed to discipline their chldren…It is not abuse to spank a child….But to many times kids are taught my people in schools, etc that it is…..So many child run wild because they know if they go to a teacher etc the autoraties can be called….It we all let parent’s be parents maybe the world would be a better place……
Comment by Pamela Eneix — June 28, 2009 @ 2:18 am
it is amazing to read all the blogs. some very smart, those have reared children. those who borned children. then u have those have never had children , hmm. but studied them.Each child is as different as the next. no 2 apples r the same. it is so easy for us to tell the other person what to do and how to do it. Each home isalso different, some with the mother and father and then some with out the other.Who is the expert.? it is the the one who studies them. u do not live with the child da-in day-out. Then we have the perfect mother and father who know it all.I think not!Their is no perfect parent!!!!!!!But we can do the best of rearing children. who r we to tell a parent he/she can not spank. We have children and young people telling the parents to f off. lying . Where r the consquences of our actions. Right out the door.I will say it like this if u do not spank your children GOOD for u. U r the better parent. But we do not all live in your perfect world. And in this not so perfect world we have young girls and boys who r having babies. going on drugs,killing and ending up in jail. Then it is so quick for our wonderful government to blame it on the parents. Hey we have the planned parent hood. telling young people is is ok to have babies. we will pay for it. It does no good for any of to belittle one another. at the same time we have not right to tell someone how to rear thier children. Can we give advice. Yes & if asked for. Spanking is a great measure of discipline. many of this blogs are not opinion’s but facts. Each person that has written something down have shared the experiences. Some good, some bad and then other great, other terrible. I got spanking and i turned out great. Good , bad , u r the person who can and will change life Good decisions u will blossom . Bad decision u will fall. I applaud Kate. She chose to be on the show. it is amazing how the government will blame those around them who make mistakes. but when the government makes their mistakes oh, no
we didn’t do anything wrong. they r so quick to blame it somewhere esle.I know that when i was spanked my mother sat down with me and explained why she spanked me i. I disobeyed. and last but not least she told me she loved me. I am so happy that she took the time to sit and talk to me .
Comment by Tori — July 3, 2009 @ 4:04 am
What was the point of showing this anyway? Kate is a mother like anyone else! Thats what wrong with the world today! Always putting it nose where it don’t belong!!! Spanking and beating are to different things people!!! This video should not have been taken, this is someone life you are messing with! GOOD JOB KATE!!
Comment by catrice — July 3, 2009 @ 8:25 am
never have a been more disgusted with a media frenzy. millions of parents choose to spank their children as a form of discipline, without such ridicule. in a time of economic crumble, war and famine, why are we so focused on a family that needs to be focused on themselves instead of trying to fix the problems of our country?
Comment by Kristin — July 3, 2009 @ 8:51 am
Funny how even your intro “watch the shocking video here”, is so freaking bias. Exactly what is so shocking? I graduated in 1974, and at that time if even seniors in high school got out of hand they got whacked on the butt. It was one heck of a control method. Schooling then was run by the administrators. I hear the horror stories of how classrooms are so out of hand, teachers that spend more time sending kids to the office, where nothing happens but the kids being sent back to the room to cause more disruption. The only noticeable difference between then and now was now you can’t lay a hand on the kids. I don’t know anyone who is scared for life because the got out of hand and got a spanking.
Comment by Tim — July 3, 2009 @ 9:01 am
I couldn’t have said it better than the first poster. As a last resort I did give my kids {all grown now w/kids of their own} a swat on their backside. Having a talk with them did no good they weren’t listening. They remembered the swat the next time they thought about doing something bad or very wrong. I believe parents have the right to raise and discipline their children as they want without the government telling them what they can and cannot do.
Comment by Lori — July 3, 2009 @ 10:23 am
The main problems with our country stem from children not being disciplined when necessary and in the proper way. Positive reinforcement only works for so long. Eventually you gotta tap that backside! Millions of people, generations before us “endured” this type of punishment and were made better people because of it. Wherever I go people tell me I have the best behaved children they have seen in a long time. The reason: they know what will happen if they’re not! Leave Kate alone!!
Comment by Danika Hurley — July 3, 2009 @ 10:31 am
I’ve been spanked. One of my ex GFs has not. I just received my MBA, had my own consulting business, had a great career in Marketing and I am a member of Mensa. My Ex GF is waitressing as she tries to become an actress, had a drug problem and has a lot of relationship issues. She likes playing the victim role in life. I don’t – I strive to get what I want.
Is spanking responsible for this? I don’t know. I do know, however, that she was very spoiled as a child (we dated as teens over a decade ago). She was spanked once and called it child abuse. I was spanked so many times that I laughed at the notion that it was abuse.
I was spoiled as well, but not to that extent. There were things she did that I would have never considered. And I feel she disrespected her parents too often.
Parents shouldn’t be their kids’ best friends. Growing up, I needed parents, not friends (I had enough of those). I got involved in a lot of bad stuff as a kid and thankfully I got out (whether it was through fear of punishment or my own willpower).
My life is very good right now. If my parents were friends I would have grown lazy and disrespectful. I know this because I’ve seen it in my friends.
Would I spank my children? I don’t know. I hope I never have to. But I’ll deal with that when I reach that stage in life and I’ll discuss it with my wife beforehand.
Comment by gs — July 3, 2009 @ 10:55 am
Anyone who compares spanking to beating has never been beat before.
I think we should take a survey to determine who has been regularly spanked, who hasn’t and how our lives have been turned out.
After all, that’s what we’re talking about isn’t it? The overall effects of spanking.
Comment by Joe — July 3, 2009 @ 10:58 am
I don’t think Kate did anything wrong IF she did spank her own child I know how sneaky children are , and to have 8 children wow I have 4 and they were a hand full, I think the media should just back off and let Kate raise her children She and Jon are the only ones that know thier children and what is best for them. So lay off!!
Comment by Deb — July 3, 2009 @ 10:59 am
I do believe in “spankings”. Not abuse. But I think the real underlying issue here is not the topic of spankings but neglect. I love to see parents who reprimand their child(ren) when needed. It means the parents are paying attention to their offspring and cares about what they’re doing. So many times have I sat back and watched more parents IGNORE their kids, by being on the cell phone etc., and the kids are doing whatever they want. I’ve seen parents driving with kids unbuckled and bouncing around the car. I’ve witnessed children throwing tantrums in the store and the parents just look around and ignore the child. So these children continue doing whatever they want. My son came home from school one day and told me (very cockily, I might add) that his teachers were saying that if I were to hit him in anyway that it was child abuse. I dialed the child abuse hotline and handed my son the phone. I told him that if he didn’t listen to my rules and accept the consequences to his actions, then to be my guest and report me. I also told him what social services would do. That pretty much cleared up whatever thoughts he was having. I then went to the school and told that teacher if she fills my sons head up with her drivel again that I was going to pack up my sons stuff and he would then live with her if she thinks she can do a better job at raising him then I. My son doesn’t get swatted often but when he does….HE NEEDS IT. Period. And if my son is anything like me when I was a kid then when I “talk” to him???? He tunes me out. Make him repeat me?? Boy if that doesn’t make him feel stupid. From his mouth, not mine. Time outs? Waste of time for us. Taking things away??? Only if it’s removed for a month does that actually work in my house. Fortunatly my kids are smart. So anyway, for you parents out there that are judging harshly about how other people reprimand their kids, PLEASE come and take our kids! We’d love to see how you do raising them the so-called “right” way. I think we could all use the vacation anyhow. Btw, I have 3 daughters and one son….. with a new son on the way. My daughters I’ve rarely had to dicipline.They are 16, 14 and 7. My son needs it more. He’s 10 and tries to run my house. HA! Not in this lifetime slick! You know it’s funny that my son pushes me and pushes me ’till I do pop him on the fanny. He will listen to a stranger better then he’ll listen to me. At first. Why? BECAUSE HE”S SCARED THEY’LL SPANK HIM! Unnnnntttiiilllllll, he figures out they won’t and then he’s just as direspectful to them as he is to me. He tunes people out when they talk. So my point is, is that when I do swat him? His behavior gets better. Spanking is not for every child. To each their own! So sorry for rambling but I hope I’ve made my point. Judge not lest ye be judged.
Comment by Linda — July 3, 2009 @ 11:53 am
Yes , I believe spanking is okay when done in the right way and at the right time….and wise parent knows the difference. As for people saying that you could hurt your child without knowing it…that is bull….maybe you were abused as a child and that is why you think that way….but if you are too rough, you know what your doing. I am not stupid, and I know what is best for my 4 children. They get spankings when they have crossed over the line, and they are the happiest kids you have ever seen. NOT spanking children is why there are so many disrespectful, hateful, and violent kids. Have you ever wondered why, just all of a sudden in the past several years, that there is more and more violence involving children. Children killing, children shooting up schools. It’s because they were never taught bounderies, they got to do whatever they wanted, and were never taught respect. So leave Kate alone!! She is dealing with so much already, and the media and people with their screwed up views are just making it worse. You would think differently if it were you in the spotlight.
Comment by Codie Watson — July 3, 2009 @ 1:13 pm
I agree with the spank-believers here. Spanking is NOT BEATING!!! THat is why many of the children in society now think they are entitled to do and say whatever they want, with no regard for authority and no respect for anyone… most escpecially their elders. We, as a society have slowly handed over the reigns to immature minds who are obviously not yet mentally equipped to handle the repsonisibilty we have GIVEN them. Until more parents take charge and responsibility in raising these kids we will continue to see increases in teen pregnancies as a norm, teen suicides as expected, teen mass homicides and a total disregard and devaluing of laugh in general!!! GOOD FOR YOU KATE!!!
Comment by Anj — July 3, 2009 @ 1:42 pm
What Kate should have done is take the whistle away from her child….she can’t expect a younger child to know exactly what is feels like to be annoyed and stressed out so why would you spank your child over such a trivial matter. That whole family seems out of whack….to put a huge family on t.v. in the first place is stupid we could be doing more productive things with that money. But back to the whole Kate issue, what she needs to do is learn that the pants belong to the husband not her. My mother was a single mother and now she is remarried, but her problem is that she wont give my step dad the wheel, so to speak. This causes tension and make me think, this must be the same problem with Kate, if she had taken the whistle away and said that she would tell their father it would strike a little fear into the child to realize that she should stop, but of course that would be after a while of doing that. Call me old-fashioned but i think that the man should be the strength and the woman the love and care not the other way around. Just have the father do it, there is more to be afraid of when a man is “angry” to be afraid of the mother is to be afraid of love. At least that’s what i will make my household to be. I know what I am talking about, i have three brothers all under ten and two sisters one fifteen and the other a one year old. The way my mother and grandmother are is the opposite of what it should be i know i can go to my step dad if i have any problems but my mother is just too much of a “man” that’s why is Kate just changes positions then their family maybe a little more peaceful. Since she felt she absolutely had to spank her then she must have wanted all of this attention. I hate celebs outside of the movies anyways. i just wanted to share my opinion like the rest of you.
Comment by Chloe — July 3, 2009 @ 1:46 pm
To start I feel spanking is right. My mother spanked all of her children and we turned out pretty well. Every one needs to leave Kate alone. I don’t think anyone should have anything to say about how she is raising her children. And anyone judging her, if you are not in her day-to-day life, SHUT UP. You have no idea about what is going on in her life if you don’t know her on a personal level. Keep spanking your children Kate, and let them know you love them. And forget the people trying to tell you how you should raise them because they probably have so many issues of their own.
Comment by Malaika Mallory — July 3, 2009 @ 1:50 pm
I really can’t stand people who support people when they have absolutely no reason to. We all know that celeb news is just ridiculous….and if Kate does anything she knows that people will make a big hype about it…and a lot of people think that it is there “job” to “support” her or other celebs. It is the celebs own choice and a little constructive criticism every now and again is not a bad thing especially since she is having some marriage problems. If anything she should be here reading these things seeing what real people think. After she tends to her children.
Comment by Chloe — July 3, 2009 @ 2:06 pm
I have not watched Jon & Kate plus 8 on TV, have only caught glimpses here and there online. Media is never friendly concerning what should be private amongst family members. I myself and my siblings grew up receiving spankings when we did or said something wrong after getting a couple of warnings to stop the misbehavior. We are all adults now with grown children of our own whom also received the warning/spanking form of punishment. Our children are none the worse for it and are actually better off because they learned to respect their elders and their peers. In each generation of my family spankings were a swat on the bottom and maybe a good talking to and being sent to one’s room to think about what you did wrong- (sometimes we ere sent to stand in a corner). At any rate getting back to Kate spanking her 5 year old daughter … 1. It is really no ones business but hers and her family, and we have no right whatsoever to judge her or her parenting skills/methods. Those of you who feel that Time Outs are an effective form of “punishment” … perhaps you feel it works for you, however, I see the results of positive reinforcement as a sole form of discipline and it isn’t a good outcome. Positive reinforcement WITH the occasional neccessary spanking is good for our youth. This will help them learn right from wrong, to respect their parents/elders and peers, learn people skills, and they will grow up to become respectable, well rounded, sound people themselves.
Spanked as a child and thankful for it. – July 3, 2009
Comment by Barbara — July 3, 2009 @ 2:06 pm
Drippy parents. The ones who cheer justifications for anything phrased as “Reasons of State” or “State Secrets.” The ones who suck up to authority, who believe the taser is for the benefit of both parties. The ones who go about with their nose in a Danish while State Secrets are loosing the nation’s bowels on foreigners. Drip parents who believe in this kind of thing.
Comment by Group Captain Lionel Mandrake — July 3, 2009 @ 2:08 pm
To comment #113. Wow. Drippy parents, huh? Again….if you think that what we’re doing is wrong then PLEASE…why don’t you enlighten us on how to raise OUR children. I know for a fact that I didn’t ask ANYONE to come into my house and tell me how to raise my brood. I’m sure no one did that with your parents either. Would you like to tell me the right and wrong way to have sex with my husband? Maybe I’m not doing it right! If we as parents needed help, We would ASK for it. Until then, this is just a thread where people are posting their opinions and do NOT deserve to be brow beaten or name called. You people who preach that we’re doing something so “awful” to our kids REALLY need to clean out your own closets before you judge someone else. Seriously. Do you teach your kids to name call also? So your teaching them verbal and emotional abuse. And those of you without kids? You really need to mind your own bussiness. You have NO IDEA what it takes to take care of ALL the aspects of raising another human being. If more people would back up parents,instead of saying “Well they’re not my kids…what do I care?”, this world would be a better place. Instead what we have are those SAME people butting their nose in any time they feel they have the right. It’s sheer hypocrisy. If your not part of the solution you ARE PART OF THE PROBLEM! Either be there from the begining and support us parents or BUTT OUT! Again….our kids are not YOUR kids….so what do you care?
Comment by Linda — July 4, 2009 @ 12:43 pm