Do not beat the child – it delays development and spoils character. 1929

This Soviet poster, created in 1929 and attributed to artist A. Laptev, promotes progressive ideas about parenting and child development. It features a young boy in a Pioneer-style outfit raising his hand and speaking out, symbolizing both innocence and the emerging voice of children in Soviet society. The bold slogan across the poster reads: “Do not beat the child – it delays his development and spoils his character.” The use of bright red and stark white letters against a deep blue background makes the message urgent and direct. This poster is part of a broader Soviet campaign in the late 1920s to discourage corporal punishment and to promote educational, rather than disciplinary, approaches to raising children. Its simple imagery and strong message reflect the drive to shape a new, enlightened generation in line with socialist ideals.