At last we hear the childhood victims speak.

For over forty years as a Children’s Advocate and reading the abundant research in corporal punishment, at last here is an extraordinary book filled with children’s writings and drawings expressing their feelings on being treated violently. We adults tend to suppress how it feels to be slapped and spanked, yet the majority of U.S. kids are so treated. More than one page of this book brought tears to my eyes.

In my research I have found Zero psychological and philosophical justification for punishing children in any way, much less in hitting them. So 45 years ago my wife and children and I together found ways to eliminate all forms of punishment in our home. In my book “Parenting Without Punishing” I show how, with our Democratic Discipline family meetings, we all shared responsibility for treating each other with civility. Instead of lectures and shaming, the children learned by parents’ modeling the desired behavior. Hence, the kids were, say, never taught manners; instead they were treated with courtesy. They matured considerably sooner than their peers. They are now in their forties, with college degrees and successful in their careers & happy families. This 18-year “research” is my argument that no extra patience is necessary, only understanding the basic goodness of a child, and respecting that. – Norm Lee

“This Hurts Me More Than It Hurts You: In Words and Pictures, Children Share How Spanking Hurts and What To Do Instead”, is a wonderful resource!

It conveys – in ways that our professional language and analyses never can – the pain and pleas of children who experience physical punishment. Their compelling words and evocative drawings should reinforce our determination to ensure that all children receive the same protection from assault we adults take for granted and that all parents understand the value of positive discipline.

Ron Ensom, M.S.W., RSW
co-author, Canadian Joint Statement on Physical Punishment of Children and Youth

Three national book awards…

Block’s book This Hurts Me More Than It Hurts You: In Words and Pictures Children Share How Spanking Hurts and What to Do Instead has been awarded three national book awards from Royal Dragonfly Books. Specifically, Nadine’s book received awards in the categories of parenting, relationships, and interior design.

A ground-breaking exploration into the hearts and minds of our children from a country and society where pets have more rights than our kids! As a psychotherapist of 25 years —

This is the first collection I’ve seen that allows us to really hear the voice of those whom are largely voiceless. It’s about time we wake up, realize, take responsibility for and put an end to the beginnings of the cylce of violence which most often starts with “spanking” or “discipline.” This collection provides a vehicle for expressing and demonstrating the consequences of corporal punishment. I will definitely find ways to utilize this book to educate parents towards non-violent parenting, and also forward a copy to our counseling school’s library and Art Therapy Department. Thanks to Dr. Gomez and Ms. Block for their contribution towards raising healthy kids and a peaceful world!” – Dr. Mark J