UNICEF: Over 400 Million Kids Face Violent Discipline At Home

Over 400 million children under the age of five—representing 6 in 10 children globally in that age group—experience regular psychological aggression or physical punishment at home, says UNICEF. Of them, about 330 million are punished by physical means.

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UNICEF: Many Young Children Missing Out on Play and Care

The data released on June 11, the first-ever International Day of Play, also highlights disparities in caregiving practices and access to play opportunities.

It shows that 4 in 10 children aged two to four do not get enough interaction or stimulation at home, which could lead to emotional neglect and a sense of detachment, insecurity, and behavioral issues that can persist into adulthood.

Around 1 in 10 children also miss out on essential activities with their parents or caregivers that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development, such as reading, storytelling, singing, and drawing. In addition, approximately 1 in 8 children under five do not have toys or playthings.

Because of this, UNICEF's findings highlight how important play is for children's development and the mental well-being of both children and their caregivers.

"When children are subjected to physical or verbal abuse at home, or when they are deprived of social and emotional care from their loved ones, it can undermine their sense of self-worth and development," stated UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

She added, "Nurturing and playful parenting can bring joy and also help children feel safe, learn, build skills, and navigate the world around them."

Child Protection Efforts

A growing number of countries are banning physical punishment against children, and over half of the 66 countries that have prohibited this practice have done so in the last 15 years. However, this still leaves around half a billion children under five without sufficient legal protection.

Despite efforts to ban physical punishment of children at home, harmful social norms that support violent childrearing methods continue to persist worldwide.

Research indicates that more than 1 in 4 mothers and primary caregivers believe that physical punishment is necessary for raising and educating children.

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Addressing Violence in Child Discipline

Studies have shown that evidence-based parenting programs can improve caregiving, reduce family violence and maltreatment, and enhance the mental health of children and parents. These programs involve coaching on positive approaches, building strong parent-child relationships, and supporting play, nonviolent discipline, and communication.

To ensure every child grows up feeling safe and loved, UNICEF urges governments to strengthen efforts and investment in:

• Protection: Strengthening legal and policy frameworks that prohibit and end all forms of violence against children in the home;
• Parenting support: Scaling up evidence-based parenting programs that promote positive, playful approaches, and prevent family violence;
• Playful learning: Expanding access to learning and play spaces for children, including preschools, schools, and playgrounds.

Read here to learn more about how the power of play in your child's first three years sets them up for success.