Expert: Justin Choo - 4/27/2005

Question
How do Buddhists raise children? Are adults easy on discipline, or do they begin discipline at an early age? Do they spank their children, or do they correct with kind words only? Is there a baptism for children, when do they become fully Buddhist? Is there a blessing for infants like in the Catholic faith? Do children have a school where they learn of the precepts of Buddhism?

Answer
Hi Tracy,

Thank you for asking me.

First I would like to assure you that a "Buddhist" is just as mortal as you are.  The only difference is that the Buddhist will try to be diligent to practise the Buddha's teachings in order to find peace and happiness in oneself; and hopefully spread them to others.

The Buddha was concerned with the spreading of truth to the world so that those who could understand and practise will find peace of mind and spiritual happiness.  His teachings are for adults. Once the adults follow the teachings of the Buddha, they would raise their children in accordance with Buddhist principles.  There is no dogma or commandment to obey. It is up to the individual to be honest with himself.  If he is dishonest he knows. As such you may consider that there is no Buddhist who is a hypocrite.  

Your first 3 questions would be better answered in any good books on parental guidance.     

Your question: "Is there a baptism for children, when do they become fully Buddhist?"
My comment: Do you honestly think that we can convert an infant into a "religion"?  The Buddha would not be worth a dime if he were to advocate such practice.
They become REAL Buddhists when they grow up and can reason for themselves and decide on their own free-will that the Buddha's teachings are beneficial and acceptable to them.  That is why I said that there can be no Buddhist hypocrite, or "imprisoned" Buddhist.  If one is unwilling to accept the Buddha's teachings, one is simply regarded as a non-Buddhist.  No problem!

Your question: "Is there a blessing for infants like in the Catholic faith? "
My comment: Yes, one can always at any time bring the child to a temple for the monks to chant the Budhha's teachings as "blessings".

In Asian countries, many temples conduct "Sunday School Classes" where children are guided to follow the Buddha's teachings.  I am sure there will be temples doing the same in the West.

Hope I have answered all your questions.  Please come back if you need clarification.

Smile from justinchoo :-)