Physical Punishment Reduced by Free Media Program Play Nicely

Teach how to manage aggressive behavior with "Play Nicely." Pediatrician Dr. Seth Scholer developed this 40 minute free instructional multi-media program. It is available at www.playnicely.org. The Multimedia Program: Smartphone and Tablet Version runs on a computer. The program is Research done at the Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University shows the instructional video lessens physical punishment. Many studies show physical punishment of young children is harmful. It fosters aggression, later mental health problems such as depression and an increased incidence of spouse and child abuse as physically punished children grow into adults.

Positive alternatives to physical punishment support a child's social and emotional growth, problem solving and social competence. The "Play Nicely" Multi-media program has sections for parents, teachers and healthcare professionals. The majority of parents who viewed the program as part of their child's check up in the Vanderbilt primary care clinic said they would change how they disciplined their child in the future. The program demonstrates alternatives to spanking and hitting. It shows how to teach children acceptable behavior. The materials are available in English and Spanish. Preview the video with your staff. Then share it with parents at a parent meeting. Use this proven tool to bring all adults on board with effective discipline instead of physical punishment! Reviewed and reaffirmed 7/2021