Under California Law, a Parent may use “reasonable and age-appropriate spanking to the buttocks if there is no evidence of serious physical injury.” (Welf & I C §300(a)) 

If you are a Parent and you decide to spank your child, we strongly suggest that you not Spank your child with ANY object such as a shoe, wooden spoon, or a belt. Many Judges will view the use of an object to Spank your child as “serious physical abuse.” 

In addition, if you leave marks on your child's buttocks such as finger prints or bruises, you are definitely at risk of having CPS intervene into your life!