What is a good punishment for a 4 year old?

Question

My sweet little boy slapped his teacher this morning because he brought gum to school and she wanted him to spit it out. He's in the office and I'm very upset. He's very sad that he did it and says sorry over and over. What can I do to show him that this is very bad. Kids are expelled from school for things like this. Should I make him stay inside all day? No tv all day? He's usually a great kid,has even been called "gifted." What is appropriate for his age,his teacher was crying. He does not need counseling before anyone goes there,he has never been in trouble.

Kukana · Accepted Answer

He already knows that it's very bad - he's sad, and has said sorry. Why would you punish him?? Punishments just make children angry and aggressive, and since he's already sorry  he needs to be forgiven and hugged.  Poor little guy.

You should also figure out how he's getting hold of something as toxic and disgusting as gum... most of them contain artificial sweeteners and colourings and are TOTALLY unsuited to a child.

Ribbon · Answer

Your main issue is that you think your boy is sweet when he obviously is not. Sweet children don't get up and slap their teacher as a first offence. You're in denial about what kind of child you have. I also get the feeling you omitted some facts from your question as well.

As for what to do now - no gum. A 4 year old shouldn't be having gum anyway. In 2 years he can have some gum. Have him apologize to his teacher and make her a card. That's about it. Teach your child right from wrong and make sure he knows hitting anybody is wrong and should never be done, no matter how angry you are.

Maria · Answer

Even he is 4 years, what he did it is wrong.  He should receive a punishment, this will teach him that bad behaviour has consequences and next time he will remember.  Maybe take away for a few days something that he likes.  I feel sorry for the teacher. Send her a sorry card and some sweet present.

Zydeco · Answer

You should have him make a card with construction paper and crayons for his teacher. Help him with it so it's not really a punishment per say, but a creative way to sincerely apologize. Make sure he knows WHY he can't behave like that.

Anonymous · Answer

No More Gum
Make him apologize to his teacher whether it be in person, through a letter/gift, etc.
Early Bedtime

? · Answer

Just forget about it. I would have laughed if my son did that, teachers deserve it!!! And he's only four, just leave him alone!!!

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What is a good punishment for a 4 year old?

6 Answers