Joseph, the need for physical intervention is due not just to the seriousness of the action (getting burned, run over by a car) but to its urgency- something has to be done to keep the kid from harm NOW. As has been pointed out, it’s not a matter of education, although the drama of it may make an impression on the kid so they do not do it again. In terms of chillul shabbos, no one is saying that spiritual danger is not important, but the response need not be a knee-jerk immediate take-action or else. I can see where it would be appropriate if a child is reaching towards a light switch to turn off the lights on shabbos, that a parent can push away his hand. But that is for the purpose of preventing the action, the physical force comes before the action, not as a punishment afterwards, it’s not done to educate the kid on the importance in keeping shabbos. That needs to be done through talking, showing by example, making shabbos beautiful and meaningful etc, and not by fear of a beating.
Menu