Discipline is one of the biggest responsibilities of parenting, and in Africa, it is taken very seriously. Every parent has their method, but the goal is always the same, to raise children who are respectful, responsible, and well-mannered.
Growing up in an African home, discipline was not something to joke about. You always knew that if you misbehaved, there would be consequences. And trust me, the consequences varied. It could be a serious warning, house chores, denial of privileges, or even the famous "African beating" that many of us experienced at least once.
Before we even talk about discipline, let’s not forget the power of "the look." If you grew up in an African home, you know exactly what this means. That one sharp look from your mother or father could reset your entire brain. It was a silent warning that said, "Don’t try me." If you were smart, you would immediately behave well.
One of the most common forms of discipline in Africa is spanking. Many parents believe in the saying, "Spare the rod and spoil the child." They see it as a way to correct bad behavior and instill respect. A child who talks back, steals, lies, or disrespects elders is likely to face some form of physical punishment.
I remember one particular day when my cousin stole money from my aunt’s purse. She thought no one saw her, but African parents have eyes everywhere. When my aunt found out, she didn’t just punish her immediately. She waited until the entire family was seated before she called my cousin out.
She bought different snacks with the money and my Aunt later asked her where she got the money from, my cousin hesitated, but she knew there was no escape. After a few weak lies, she confessed. That was the day she learned a lesson she never forgot. First, my aunt gave her the beating of her life, not out of anger, but to correct her. For a whole month, my cousin was given extra house chores as punishment. She never tried stealing again.
African parents also use other methods of discipline. If a child misbehaves, they might be asked to sweep the entire compound, wash a mountain of dishes, or kneel for what feels like eternity. Some parents take it a step further by making the child hold their ears while squatting, if you know, you know.
I once witnessed when my father punished my elder brother for not returning home directly after school. My brother went with his friends to play football after school and forgot that it was too late for him to return home, he returned very late at night and my father didn't say anything, the next day he called him and asked what happened yesterday, my brother was mincing words together, He didn’t beat him. Instead, he made him kneel under the hot sun with his hands raised. It was painful, but the message was clear, next time, he would never try it.
Despite these strict discipline methods, not every child turns out perfect. Some become rebellious, while others grow up with resentment. This is why many modern African parents are looking for a balance between strict discipline and open communication. They want to correct their children without breaking their spirits.
The goal of discipline is not to harm a child but to guide them. It’s about teaching them responsibility, respect, and the consequences of their actions. Whether it’s through a cane, extra chores, or a wise proverb, African parents are committed to raising disciplined children who will grow up to be responsible adults.
Discipline in African homes is deeply rooted in culture and tradition. While some methods are harsh, they are often done out of love and a desire to see children succeed. However, as the world changes, so do parenting styles. More parents are now combining traditional discipline with modern techniques like reasoning with their children and setting clear expectations. One thing is certain, no matter how discipline is carried out, the lessons we learn as children shape who we become.
This is my response to this episode of the hive-learners community prompt of
#hl-w158e1 which the topic is tagged THIS IS DISCIPLINE
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