You really think threatening to beat the snot out of your children has any impact? As a matter of fact, it does...
They won't appreciate it until you have beat the snot out of then at least once. I have already beat the snot out of them... separate wrong doing.
So have at tonight. Let 'em know what they'll get in case they ever disobey you. They already know...
That way you will be able top continue your fantasy about being intelligent enough to be a parent.