When we think about prohibiting all corporal punishment of children many questions arise, particularly in relation to the purpose of a legal ban and what prohibition will mean for parents and family life. The first in this series of booklets aims to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions and dispel common misperceptions about the reasons for prohibition and its impact on families.

Specific questions often arise when moves are made to prohibit corporal punishment in schools. Another booklet in the series provides answers to some of these questions and aims to help clarify the key issues involved.

Together, the booklets should give parents and carers, government officials, education professionals and others working towards prohibition of corporal punishment the confidence to pursue legal reform and move a step closer to realising children’s right to protection from all forms of violence in all settings.