How to discipline a child in Ghana without getting into trouble with the law

Let’s be honest—raising a child in Ghana isn’t for the faint-hearted. Between homework battles, screen time fights, and those “you can’t talk back to me” moments, it’s tempting to just reach for the cane like our parents did. But times have changed.

Today, what you call discipline, the law might call abuse. So if you’re a parent, teacher, guardian—or even a nosy uncle—it’s important to know how to correct a child without ending up on the wrong side of the law. Let’s break it all down in plain terms.

Is It Illegal To Discipline A Child?

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Not exactly ,there are limits. You can’t hit, injure, or mistreat children, even if they’re your own. Ghanaian law protects children from abuse and inhumane treatment, and you could face serious consequences if you violate those protections.

Child Protection Laws in Ghana

What Act 560 (Children’s Act) Says

Ghana’s Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560) is all about protecting children from harm. Section 13(1) puts it bluntly:

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No person shall subject a child to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment including any cultural practice which dehumanises or is injurious to the physical and mental well-being of a child.

Translation: You can’t beat, insult, lock up, or force a child to kneel in the hot sun and call it “training.” That’s abuse—and it’s against the law.

What Act 732 (Domestic Violence Act) Adds

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This law takes things a step further. Section 1 of the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732) says:

Domestic violence includes any act or threat of physical, sexual, economic or emotional abuse that harms or is likely to harm the safety, health or well-being of a person.

That includes children. So even slaps, insults, or punishments that humiliate them could land you in hot water.

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How To Discipline Your Child Without Yelling or Hitting

Here’s the good news: there are smart, respectful—and legal—ways to raise disciplined kids in Ghana without becoming a villain in your own home.

1. Talk, Don’t Shout

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Yes, it takes patience. But talking calmly and firmly works better than screaming.
Try this:

Kwesi, I warned you about throwing your toys. If it happens again, I’ll take them away.

It’s about teaching, not terrifying.

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2. Time-Outs Still Work

This isn’t just for oyibo homes. Time-outs are simple: send the child to a quiet space to calm down for a few minutes.

Pro tip: One minute for each year of the child’s age. So your 6-year-old gets six minutes.

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3. Take Away Privileges

TV, tablet, football, sweets—whatever they love, put it on pause when they mess up.
Example:

You didn’t do your homework, so no cartoons this evening.

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Consistency is key.

4. Let Nature Do The Teaching

Sometimes, it’s best to let them feel the effects of their actions.
Example:
Don’t force your child to take an umbrella. When they get wet, they’ll remember next time.

5. Reward Good Behaviour

Don’t only shout when they’re wrong—praise them when they get it right.
Try saying:

Positive reinforcement works like magic.

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