Does anyone feel that is the right way to punish a 3 year old?

I have a 3 year old and my father in law is constantly telling me to e him when he misbehaves, I will from time to time when he has done something very . But not for everyday 3 year old habits. I know a lot you will disagree with me about the thing, but I am not going to just hall off and beat my child for doing just what 3 year olds do. So what do you guys think "e or not to e??"