Big-Hearted Parenting Is The Glue That Strengthens The Connection With Your Child
Ever wonder why your toddler keeps hitting, even though you’ve told them it’s not okay a million times? In this episode, I explain the real reasons behind toddler hitting and how you can respond without losing your cool. It’s all about guiding them with kindness, understanding, and big-hearted boundaries.
Here are a few of the must-know insights from today’s episode:
- Toddlers are not mini-adults: Their brains are still developing, and hitting is often just a result of frustration or poor impulse control!
- Negative attention is still attention: They’ll take whatever interaction they can get. Respond calmly to avoid reinforcing the behavior.
- Hitting is their way of communicating: Those little hands sometimes fly when words fail. Put on your detective hat and look for the unmet need behind the behavior.
Want more expert strategies to handle those tricky toddler behaviors with confidence? Pre-order my new book, *Toddlers Made Easy,* and receive a FREE copy of *Words That Work: 200 Scripts for Big-Hearted Toddler Parenting*—a must-have resource for every parent. Click the link in the show notes to grab your copy today!
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
PRE-ORDER: Toddlers Made Easy upcoming book
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
Tantrums Crash Course NEW!!
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode of *Toddlers Made Easy*, we dive into the art of setting firm yet loving boundaries with toddlers using the big-hearted approach. We explore how being kind and empathetic doesn’t mean being permissive, and how holding strong limits helps children feel safe and guided.
Through real-life examples, like a store meltdown over a Snickers bar and the classic yellow cup tantrum, we break down the “Calm, Connect, Communicate” framework to help parents manage their emotions and respond with calm and warmth.
Plus, discover tips for holding boundaries when your toddler keeps pushing and why self-care is essential for staying composed in those tough moments.
Plus, You can now pre-order *Toddlers Made Easy* today to get practical, proven strategies for handling toddler struggles with confidence and warmth!
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
PRE-ORDER: Toddlers Made Easy upcoming book
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
Tantrums Crash Course NEW!!
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode of the Toddlers Made Easy podcast, Dr. Cathryn explores how to offer choices to toddlers in a way that empowers them without overwhelming them. She discusses the importance of allowing toddlers to make decisions, which helps foster independence, reduce power struggles, and build confidence.
However, Dr. Cathryn also highlights when choices should be avoided, such as during safety concerns, overwhelming transitions, or times of stress, tiredness, or hunger.
Offering too many options or ambiguous choices can cause frustration. Dr. Cathryn shares practical tips, such as keeping choices simple and ensuring both options are acceptable, to help parents navigate this tricky territory.
Dr. Cathryn also addresses the emotional development of toddlers, explaining why they may struggle with their decisions and react unexpectedly, and emphasizes the importance of balancing choices with boundaries. For more guidance on managing tantrums and pushback, check out the *Toddlers Made Easy* online course, designed to help make your home a happier, calmer space. The link is in the show notes below.
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
PRE-ORDER: Toddlers Made Easy upcoming book
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
Tantrums Crash Course NEW!!
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," host Dr. Cathryn provides practical scripts and strategies for managing toddler tantrums calmly and effectively. She emphasizes that tantrums are normal developmental behaviors and stresses the importance of parents staying calm during these episodes.
The episode covers various tantrum scenarios, including meltdowns in grocery stores, frustration over independence, unexplained outbursts, refusal to leave the park, and bedtime resistance.
Dr. Cathryn offers tips such as acknowledging feelings without giving in to demands, using imaginative play to redirect attention, setting clear boundaries, and teaching calming techniques like "Magic Breathing." She also advises preparing children for transitions to avoid meltdowns and provides specific phrases parents can use to validate emotions and offer choices.
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
Tantrums Crash Course NEW!!
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
email: [email protected]
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
Shyness isn't a flaw—it's a strength. Some kids need time to warm up, and that's okay! Instead of pushing them to be outgoing, let's support their quiet confidence. Encourage them to take things at their own pace and validate their feelings. Shy kids can be brave too—just in their own way. 🌟
👉 Pre-order my NEW BOOK (avail Oct 2024) **Toddlers Made Easy** today, and get my FREE ebook *Words That Work: 200 Scripts* to handle tricky moments with ease! (VALUE $37) LEARN MORE. 📚✨
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode, we explore the best ways to support your child through potty training without rushing or coaxing. With over 35 years of experience, I recommend a relaxed, zero-pressure approach. While some kids can learn in a weekend, pushing kids can lead to issues like constipation, behavioral problems, and stress.
Key Takeaways:
- Zero-Pressure Approach: Trust that your child will learn when they’re ready. Potty training is about the process, not just the end goal.
- Unconditional Trust: Your child senses your emotions. By trusting their ability to learn, you boost their confidence and independence.
- Big-Hearted Communication: If you’ve been pressuring your child, acknowledge it and reassure them they’ll use the potty when they’re ready.
- Pre-Potty Training: Introduce the potty without expectations, allowing your child to explore it on their own terms. This sets the stage for a smoother transition.
Resources:
Potty Training Made Easy Course: Discover more about the relaxed approach to potty training. Learn more [here].
5 Must-Do's Before Starting Potty Training guide
Thanks for listening! If you have questions, feel free to email me. Have a great week, and keep up the good work!
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
Welcome! I’m Dr. Cathryn, pediatrician with 35 years of experience and mom of 4. This week, we dive into the art of calming a tantrum without saying a word. Timing and approach are key—intervene too soon or in the wrong way, and you might unintentionally escalate the situation. By staying calm, you share that calm with your child, guiding them through their big emotions.
Key Takeaways:
- Anatomy of a Tantrum: Anger dominates early on, but as the tantrum subsides, sadness takes over—this is your moment to step in.
- Empathy Over Intervention: Understanding your child’s perspective helps de-escalate the situation. Sometimes, all they need is your calm presence, not words.
- Examples in Action: Whether it’s a grocery store meltdown or a bedtime battle, staying silent and present can help tantrums pass more quickly.
- Prolonging Factors: Eye-rolling, logic, and bribes can backfire. Stay patient and trust the process.
Remember, tantrums are opportunities for connection. If you struggle with finding the right words during tough moments, check out my guide, *Words That Work*, featuring 200 scripts to handle any challenge. The link is in the show notes.
Thanks for tuning in—see you next week!
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
Starting school can be tough, with a mix of nerves, excitement, and fear. I’ve been there—my youngest had a hard time with drop-offs, but a simple change made all the difference.
Here are some tips to ease the transition:
- Prepare Ahead: Pick out school clothes and pack lunches the night before. Let your child choose their outfit to avoid morning conflicts.
- Ease into Routine: Prep your child on what to expect and stick to bedtime around 7:30-8:30 pm.
- Calm Mornings: Wake up earlier to manage jitters and leave calmly.
- Handle Separation Anxiety: Validate feelings with statements like, “It’s OK to cry. I’ll be back after naptime.” Avoid telling them not to cry or sneaking away.
- Buddy System: If possible, drop off with a school friend to ease the transition.
- Lunch Box Notes: A sweet reminder of home can be comforting.
- After-School Tips: Be welcoming and offer a snack to prevent tantrums. Allow some flexibility with routines.
For more practical advice, check out my guide Words That Work: 200 Scripts for Tricky Toddler Moments. Perfecting what to say can make all the difference.
Tune in for more tips on making parenting easier!
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn explores why children wake up at night and how to manage it. Drawing from personal experiences, including a notable sleep mistake with her daughter, Dr. Cathryn explains the impact of ineffective sleep associations, fears, and separation anxiety on night wakings. She also touches on medical causes like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and eczema. Learn about the recommended sleep needs for toddlers and discover practical tips for improving your child's sleep routine.
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
Know exactly what to say no matter what tricky toddler moment is thrown your way.
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn discusses how to avoid raising an entitled child and instead foster resilience. She begins by explaining the characteristics of entitled behavior in children while clarifying that normal toddler self-centeredness is different from entitlement.
Dr. Cathryn provides real-life scenarios to illustrate entitled behavior before delving into strategies for encouraging resilience. These strategies include treating toddlers as capable, assigning age-appropriate chores, maintaining boundaries, and encouraging problem-solving. She also emphasizes the importance of modeling gratitude, teaching delayed gratification, and celebrating effort rather than just results.
The episode highlights the significance of allowing children to experience disappointment and age-appropriate risks as part of their development. Dr. Cathryn encourages parents to reflect on whether they're allowing their children to take on suitable responsibilities and if they're modeling resilience themselves.
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
eBOOK
Words That Work: 200 Scripts
This is the toddler whisperer's toolkit!
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
Dr. Cathryn tackles the challenging topic of toddler hitting with a compassionate, big-hearted approach. We explore the various reasons behind this common behavior and introduce the E.A.S.Y. method—a practical, step-by-step strategy to help parents respond effectively. The episode breaks down each component of the method:
• E - Evaluate: Create a pause to calm your own nervous system
• A - Acknowledge: Verbalize what you think your child is feeling
• S - Stick to boundaries: Clearly state the rule about hitting
• Y - Yes, shift to something the child can do: Offer an alternative activity
We also discuss the importance of understanding toddlers' developmental stages, the value of consistent guidance, and additional tips for supporting emotional development.
This episode offers parents a nurturing way to address hitting while strengthening their bond with their child and fostering emotional intelligence, ultimately laying the foundation for healthy self-image and interactions throughout their child's life.
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
ONLINE COURSES
FREEBIES:
eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success!
Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Without Losing Your Cool
Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby
Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy
SPONSORS:
GET 15% OFF WITH CODE: TODDLERS
Send Us Your Stories and Questions: We love hearing from you! Share your own experiences or questions. Email us to have your questions answered in future episodes, [email protected]
Rate, Review, & Follow ❤️❤️❤️
If this sounds like you: "I love Toddlers Made Easy." <-- Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more parents -- just like you.
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