A: There is nothing wrong in that, because teachers and parents have the right to observe and discipline children for misconduct that deserves discipline, such as if they neglect their homework. This is to accustom them to noble manners and bring them up on ethics of commitment to good work. For this purpose, it is authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Command your children to perform Salah (Prayer) when they are seven (years old), and hit them for (neglecting) it when they are ten (years old); and separate between them in beds." Just as boys may be chastised for neglecting the Salah, so can girls when they reach the age of ten, if they neglect the duty of Salah until they pray regularly. The same applies to other obligations, such as study, home duties, etc. Those who are in charge of youngsters, male and female, should pay attention to teaching them and disciplining them, but any hitting should be light and not harmful, and only to achieve the intended purpose.