My grandfather gave me a pocket knife when I was a little kid, but made me give him a penny for it. It is thought to 'sever' the relationship when you give someone a knife.
Madness string 95654
This is the most batshit insane way to commit child abuse I have ever encountered. Way to go dad for not only failing to engage in any kind of productive communication with your children but also to shirk your responsibility for punishment onto some dude with a clown costume.