Reply #106: That is not a rebuttal to my post [View All]

Here it is again, in case you'd like to answer it:

Do you need a legal contract with your five year old before you teach him the difference between right and wrong, or discipline him for setting the cat on fire? Can we expect that if a 12 year old spits in a teacher's face he will likely face suspension and/or disciplinary action? Actions have consequences. If a child is not taught that aspect of responsibility and respect for others then no one is going to flip a switch when little Johnny turns 18 and say okay, NOW you're responsible when the concept hasn't been imprinted in his first 17 years.

I personally think juvie hall benefits no child, but community service is a viable alternative. There are 12 year olds in my community who do that without being asked. Of course, expecting that kind of behavior from a child is showing THEM respect as well.