Wise Stars International Montessori & Daycare centre

Sri Lanka has taken an important and commendable step forward by amending its laws to ban physical and emotional punishment of children. This change is much more than a legal update because it is a profound commitment to protecting the rights, safety, and well-being of every child in our society.

According to the law,this law doesn’t only apply to schools or teachers. It covers all children, including those in institutional care or under legal custody. This was the biggest change that I needed to see for a long time. Physical and emotional punishment inflicts lasting harm on young minds and bodies, creating fear where there should be trust, and pain where there should be love.

I know that discipline is essential, but it must be rooted in respect and positive guidance rather than violence. There are many kinder, more effective ways to teach and support children through clear communication, encouragement, setting boundaries, and helping them understand the consequences of their actions without fear or humiliation.

The things that I am learning now in Finland and Sri Lanka’s new approach aligns with the Finnish model, where corporal punishment has been illegal for decades. In Finland, discipline is based on empathy, trust, and positive reinforcement, laying the foundation for children to grow as confident, responsible, and emotionally healthy individuals.

This law sends a clear message to everyone that violence is never acceptable. Instead, we must create safe, nurturing spaces where children feel valued and understood.

Together, we can help build brighter future for our children where their dignity is respected and their full potential is nurtured.🤗