www.unicef.org BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, 10 June 2010 — Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches of Barbados, there is a controversial issue dividing much of this small island nation. A debate is raging about whether to continue using corporal punishment when disciplining children. The practice, commonly known here as whipping or flogging, goes back generations. It is widespread in both homes and schools, despite evidence that hitting children is harmful to their development. Winter Pilgrim teaches 10- and 11-year-olds. He said he used to be a firm believer in corporal punishment until it drove a wedge between him and his own daughter, who became troubled and distant. Determined to repair his relationship with his daughter, Mr. Pilgrim attended a UNICEF-sponsored workshop that helped him implement alternate parenting strategies. His new approach to disciplines places a premium on ‘owning’ one’s actions. Instead of just punishing bad behaviour, this approach clearly defines expectations and what constitutes good behaviour — making it easier for children to behave well. The workshop is part of a three-year strategy, which is being carried out by UNICEF and the Government of Barbados, to address major challenges to ending corporal punishment on the island. “It’s a very big sway from how I used to teach,” said Mr. Pilgrim. He said that today his students are more disciplined, relaxed and aware of their own actions. Even their capacity for learning has improved. “I’ve found that the …
