A couple of questions for atheists

[Cato]

I agree that religious indoctrination isn't abuse in and of itself. Also, using the power of the state to hinder a parent's right to educate their children in their religious tradition will immediately run afoul of Article 18 of the U.N.'s Universal Declaration of Human Rights (also first amendment of U.S. Constitution). I think that it's also important to note that religious freedom does not exonerate parents that violate existing laws that protect children from abuse. If cases of religiously motivated abuse exist, then the accuser has the burden of proof and can seek remedy in court as with all other forms of child abuse.

Here is a partial list of relatively recent (non-religious) child rearing ideas that are far more hideous than religious indoctrination.
- Not keeping score in competitions.
- Doling out trophies and awards simply for participation.
- Grade inflation.
- Any other form of unearned praise meant to bolster a child's self esteem.
- Stopping kids from exploring their world to hose them down with hand sanitizer every 30 seconds.
- Ensuring children are engaged in some type of planned activity from the time they finish school until it's time for bed.
- Telling children that they can achieve anything as long as they work hard. Industry and perseverance are admirable traits with just rewards and should be instilled in children, but not everyone can be a world class athlete and some people are incapable of singing in tune. It's best to be realistic with this lesson and not fill your child's head with delusions of grandeur.