What are some ways in which parents’ authority over the care of their children is limited by law in the U.S.?

Social & behavioral factors in public health

The United States gives parents a lot of power over their children’s care. This authority is however limited in several different ways by the law. The law limits the amount of physical discipline that parents can use on their child.

When engaging in certain activities, such as driving or working, parents are required to make sure that their child stays within a specific age group. There are some states that restrict minors from getting a tattoo, or piercing their body without the consent of parents. Additionally, if parents decide to homeschool then they must adhere to the state’s educational requirements for that specific jurisdiction.

Finally, the establishment clause regulates all parenting decisions involving religion. This means that government entities cannot endorse or promote a particular faith. Although most parents will still teach their religious beliefs at home it cannot be forced upon other individuals as part of public policy in any way shape or form thus limiting these rights from being enforced outside of one’s own residence.