In this "special edition" episode of ZPR, we discuss spanking and hitting, especially how it relates to the Adrian Peterson case. Three-fourths of our country still believes in spanking as an appropriate method of discipline, so instead of pointing fingers and demonizing, let's discuss, understand, and pay attention to why and how this became acceptable. Emotions, outbursts, and negative behavior are all messages; our children's way of communicating needs and challenges. Is causing them physical pain the best way to handle their self expression? Instead, can we take responsibility for the energy we bring, pay attention to our ability to listen and empathize, and focus on creating a connected and trusting relationship with our kids? In 1989 the United Nations proposed The Rights of a Child , this identified the human rights of a child, and made corporal punishment illegal.  38 countries ratified this resolution - the only two countries who did not were Somalia and the United States. As people and as parents we are supposed to grow and evolve, we are supposed to learn new ways of being. When it comes to spanking or harming a child in a physical way, we can break the cycle and wake up to a new way of relating to our kids. We posted a previous podcast on spanking which can be found here. Other Resources Todd co-facilitates The Tribe and is now accepting applications for his 2015 retreat.  Highlights of last years retreat can be found here. If you think there are times when we put too much educational pressure on our children, then check this out! Be U, Inc and Bethel Learning Center are sponsoring a FREE screening of Replace the Race followed by a discussion on October 8th @ 7:00 PM Click the link below to reserve your seat.http://cathycassaniadams.com/events/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85ynjfDcmcs Click the following links to purchase Cathy's books The Self-Aware Parent Part 1  & and Part 2 Click here to find her blog, and click here to find her Chicago Parent column. Todd has a few spots opening for his Men's Group.  Email me @ [email protected] Tree of Life Chiropractic Care have some interesting workshops planned.  An outline can be found here. If you shop Amazon by going through our website first (there is an amazon link on the bottom right hand of our home page), a portion of your sale will help fund our Be U program.  Thanks for supporting us! Check out our new website & be sure to sign up to get all new podcast sent direct to your inbox @ ZPR. We would love to hear any comments from the show by sending us an email @ [email protected] You can be sure to hear more by liking our Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/ZenParenting How important is a good smile?  Just ask our new partner John J Kelly DDS.  They are located on the northwest side of Chicago and will meet all of your family's dental needs. Painting or remodeling?  Don't forget about our parnter Avid Co. Looking for a Vitamix blender?  Don't forget to use our coupon code 06-007296 for free shipping.