The “angry jar” vs the “emotional vomit” – Which one is best the best way to raise a happy, healthy child?

Cathy and Todd also discuss Cathy’s WGN radio interview on nursing in public and the inherent contradiction between the sexualization of women in the media vs. the overall discomfort of seeing a woman nurse in public.

In the movie The Breakfast Club, Allison says that when you grow up, your heart dies.  Is there any truth to that?  Cathy and Todd discuss how to keep PLAY and keep your heart alive.  They also discuss how movies and television paint the picture of a sad, dangerous and lonely world.  It’s time to reconnect with your kid or teenage self and have a little fun!

What is the Best way to deal with emotions? Two heavyweights battle it out.

In this corner, it’s Parenting Unplugged and their “Anger Jar”. In the other corner, it’s Zen Parenting Radio and their “Emotional Vomiting”.

The tale of the tape tells one story. This episode tells another. Where do you weigh in?

Have You Heard of The Movie “The Tree of Life?”  Cathy and Todd saw it and it prompted an awesome dialogue about parenting, childhood, grieving, and even creation – reviews are mixed, but these hosts loved the spiritual nature of the film.  Are you looking to go a little deeper this year?  This show is a great kick start!  They also introduce their new partner, Tree of Life Chiropractic Center – fabulous coincidence don’t you think?

Todd and Cathy discuss how men’s testosterone levels are decreasing because they are more hands-on with their kids.  But some things tend to stay the same – Todd didn’t lift a finger getting ready for Xmas and Cathy carried the load as usual – can anyone relate? Cathy also had a deep awareness (shocker!) about why Todd balances her out – and why she balances him out.

By the way, that line was from the Enjoli perfume commercial, 1980. I did change the words a little…

Cathy and Todd talk Christmas, getting parts stolen off their car, Todd’s inability to say he is sick, and Cathy’s night out at the B96 Jingle Bash with Jason Derulo and Enrique Iglesias.  They also pose the question, why is December the only month we feel so giving and connected?  Why can’t we take the holiday spirit year round?

Why do some parents make their kids sit on Santa’s lap?  Are your holidays chaotic?  Cathy and Todd want to know why….do you feel like you have to go to the cookie exchange and you have to see Santa?  Instead of the have-tos, celebrate the season YOUR way!  They also discuss the importance of being present for the season and for the gift opening.  Todd decides he wants to “control” gift opening this year, but Cathy doesn’t agree.  How do you manage the craziness of gift-giving?

Todd & Cathy have seen infants and toddlers being taken to movies like The Dark Knight, Breaking Dawn and other adult-themed shows. Todd’s reaction caught Cathy by a bit of a surprise.  Is your reaction different? Cathy’s latest Chicago Parent blog has more, but from her perspective.

Chicago Tribune’s John Kass thinks ZP Radio’s partner Poofin is a “stupid” toy…..we don’t think he understands the purpose!  It’s more than just a pillow, it’s a scrapbook, it’s a conversation piece, it’s a comfort toy…..we love what Poofin has to offer – it allows children to recognize what they love and what they feel and it allows them to share themselves with others – what could be better?

Need a great holiday gift for an expecting parent, a new parent, an experienced parent or a grandparent?  Purchase Cathy’s “Self-Aware Parent Gift Set” – it includes both of her books signed, a white blank journal, an angel ornament, and it’s wrapped and ready to give…and it’s only $25!  Click here to purchase.

Pizza is a vegetable? You heard it right, at least according to our lawmakers.  http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-katz-md/pizza-vegetable_b_1114027.html  Todd finally vents about Congress and their misguided motivation regarding a news story that came out and his new idol Dylan Ratigan.  See why @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlSd9OURbCE

Cathy and Todd discuss the importance of gratitude – for the week of Thanksgiving and for the entire year.  They also discuss the truth behind anger, how to handle our children’s disrespectful or defiant behavior, and how to stay parental rather than resort to kid-like behavior.