Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

In this episode, we delve into fostering kindness within our families, prompted by a study showing kids often think their parents value success over empathy. As a pediatrician and mom, I share actionable steps for embedding kindness in our daily lives, from acknowledging the grocery store clerk to engaging in family volunteer work. We discuss the importance of leading by example, celebrating small acts of kindness, teaching the value of apologies, and making amends. This journey towards raising caring, respectful, and responsible adults starts with our actions more than our words. Join us as we navigate the path of nurturing compassionate children poised to make a positive difference. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Check out our bestselling online courses: Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy FREE eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE Masterclass: Tame Tantrums Join our upcoming FREE Potty Party! E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, Dr. Cathryn delves into the crucial balance of big-hearted parenting, navigating the fine line between gentleness and permissiveness. Highlighting a listener's question about sibling name-calling, Dr. Cathryn offers practical advice on fostering a supportive family environment where feelings are acknowledged, and teaching needed skills is encouraged over shame and punishment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their parent-child bond with compassion and effective leadership, ensuring their child feels valued and understood, all while learning to manage their emotions and actions constructively. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Check out our bestselling online courses: Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy FREE eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE Masterclass: Tame Tantrums E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your toddler’s desire to delay dozing off driving you to distraction? Bedtime fears usually start at around two years and may last several years. They happen very commonly because children spend their days in imaginative play, and it is tough for them to turn that off at bedtime. Even though there are many valid reasons for your toddler to fight at bedtime, you still need a chance to get some rest. Your needs matter and you have less to give when you need to recharge. So there is no need to feel guilty about wanting your child to sleep so you can take some time for yourself. In this episode, I talk about bedtime fears and how to overcome them. I go into why children have those fears and explain why they tend to happen from a developmental perspective. Stay tuned to learn how to lovingly, respectfully, and effectively manage your toddler’s bedtime fears. Five things likely to contribute to your toddler’s bedtime fears: Young kids experience separation anxiety, so it makes sense that they fuss when you leave the room. Toddlers tend to be defiant by nature because they want more control over their world. A toddler’s brain is still developing. So they have so little control over their emotions. Toddlers do not understand the concept of time. So when you tell them you will see them in the morning, it seems forever away. The frontal lobe of a toddler’s brain is still developing. That is the part that allows us to reason, problem-solve, and make plans. So they are not able to talk themselves down. Show highlights: Five things likely to contribute to bedtime fears from a developmental perspective. Why is an early bedtime best? The benefits of creating a short bedtime routine. Some effective ways to manage your toddler’s bedtime fears. The importance of creating a responsible and healthy bedtime routine. How to take charge of your child’s bedtime routine. Some calming strategies that you can teach your child to develop. How to use deep breathing in the present moment. How to stay on the same team as your child. Some easy steps to help you manage bedtimes without getting wound up. I have a bite-size course coming up soon on managing bedtime like a pro. I’ll tell you more in a future episode. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Check out our bestselling online courses: Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy FREE eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE Masterclass: Tame Tantrums E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling to set boundaries without caving in or feeling guilty? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn dives into big-hearted parenting, where setting limits meets understanding and love. Learn how acknowledging feelings and clear communication can transform challenging moments into opportunities for connection. We'll share practical strategies for maintaining calm and consistency, even when it’s hard to do. Ready to turn tough parenting moments into positive learning experiences? Tune in for insights and tips that make all the difference. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Check out our bestselling online courses: Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy FREE eBook: 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE Masterclass: Tame Tantrums E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Dr. Cathryn in this episode as she guides you through handling tough toddler moments with calmness and empathy. Learn to see past the surface behavior and understand your child's emotions. For example, if your toddler says "I hate the baby", instead of ignoring these feelings, acknowledge and understand them. Think about how you feel when someone dismisses your bad day; your child needs to feel heard just like you do. And teach them to express big emotions with words, not actions. Keep in mind, it's completely natural for toddlers to go through a wide spectrum of emotions. The key is in how they convey these feelings. In today’s discussion, we’re zeroing in on addressing the emotional side of handling challenging behaviors. Next week, we'll shift our focus to the behavioral side – setting boundaries and maintaining them effectively. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here! FREE: Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do I focus on toddlers when I'm experienced with kids of all ages? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn focuses on the vital role of the toddler years, challenging the notion of the 'Terrible Twos' and rebranding them as the 'Terribly Important Twos.' We discussed how toddlers still need as much emotional support as they did as infants, despite their growing independence. Key strategies for successful parenting include validating emotions, maintaining calm during tantrums, and encouraging emotional expression. This approach helps in nurturing resilient, confident, and extremely kind children. For more insights and practical tips, our 'Toddlers Made Easy' course is available for further guidance. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here! FREE: Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Dr. Cathryn delves into the 'Easy Does It' method, a big-hearted approach to helping your toddler fall asleep independently. Building on the emotional support strategies from Part 1, we discuss practical steps to ease bedtime struggles and how to gradually reduce your involvement. Listen in for practical tips and insights for creating a supportive and peaceful bedtime routine. 🌟 Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here! FREE: Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. E-mail: drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bedtime is tough! Dr. Cathryn talks parents through one of the most common and challenging aspects of parenting – bedtime struggles. Are you lying next to your child for hours just to get them to sleep or facing a nightly battle of wills? Dr. Cathryn explores why toddlers resist bedtime, common sleep issues, and shares empathetic, effective strategies to help your child (and you!) get a better night's rest. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here! FREE: Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Cathryn shares one of her favorite strategies for dealing with unwanted toddler behaviors. This tactic is a healthy alternative to yelling, threats, time-outs, and warnings. Listen for some great tips on dealing with unwanted behaviors when raising your toddler. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Question 1: Dealing with False Accusations- A parent shares concern about their 2.5-year-old falsely claiming to be hit by them.Answer: Understand that toddlers often blur fantasy and reality. It's their way of expressing discomfort with parental disapproval. Focus on the underlying emotions rather than the details, and reassure them with love and understanding.Question 2: Preparing for a New Sibling- A parent asks for advice on their toddler who doesn’t want a new sibling.Answer: Early in the pregnancy, it's okay to wait before discussing the new sibling. When the time comes, involve your toddler in preparations. Acknowledge their mixed feelings about growing up and becoming a big sister while allowing them to still feel like your baby.Question 3: Handling Defiance and Aggression- Concerns about a nearly 3-year-old showing defiance and occasional aggression.Answer: This behavior is a part of testing limits. Use the EASY approach: Evaluate your calmness, Acknowledge feelings, Set boundaries, and offer Yes alternatives. Focus on positive redirection.Question 4: Potty Training Challenges- A parent struggles with their 3.5-year-old's reluctance to start potty training.Answer: Pause the potty training discussion for a while. Model toilet use, focus on pre-potty skills, and choose a start date for training. Make the bathroom environment fun and inviting. Use a no-pressure approach and understand the child's perspective. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Body Positivity and Image in Young ChildrenSummary:- Discussing the importance of fostering a positive body image from a young age.- Exploring how children as young as three begin forming opinions about body shapes.- Strategies for promoting a healthy body image in toddlers and young children.Key Points:1. Early Impressions: Children start to form opinions about ideal body shapes at a surprisingly young age.2. Parental Influence: How parents talk about their own and others' bodies can significantly impact a child's body image.3. Empowering Language: Use positive affirmations about health and abilities instead of focusing on weight or appearance.4. Celebrating Diversity: Encourage acceptance of different body types and appearances.5. Function over Form: Emphasize physical capabilities rather than appearance.6. Understanding Concerns: Engage in conversations when children express body image concerns.7. Addressing Name-Calling: Teach respect for others' physical differences.8. Leading by Example: Model body positivity and healthy habits in daily life.9. Healthy Eating Habits: Involve children in food choices and meal preparation.10. Positive Potty Training: Use techniques that encourage a child to listen to their body.Practical Tips:- Avoid making appearance-based comments.- Discuss body comments your child makes, opening a dialogue.- Be photographed with your child, showing you're present in their life.- Discuss exercise as a means to gain strength, not just lose weight.- Replace negative comments about body size with positive health-focused messages.Closing Thoughts:- Body image issues can start early; awareness is key.- The way we discuss bodies around children shapes their perceptions.- Parenting is challenging; our courses offer valuable insights (see show notes for details).Check out our courses for more support in navigating these formative years. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you dream of having a child who naturally pitches in around the house without being asked? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explores the impactful role of chores in a toddler's development and how these early experiences can shape such proactive behavior.Chores are more than just tasks; they're opportunities for toddlers to build self-esteem, feel valued, and develop a sense of belonging. We dive into how age-appropriate chores play a crucial role in nurturing emotional and social growth in young children.We discuss the inherent eagerness of toddlers to help and how parents can harness this to teach valuable lessons about teamwork and responsibility. From simple activities like tidying up toys to setting the table, these tasks are stepping stones in a child's journey toward independence and empathy. Join us as we provide insights and strategies for parents to encourage their toddlers' involvement in household chores, setting the stage for them to become responsible, initiative-taking individuals in the future. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Toddlers Grab Toys- Discover why toddlers struggle with sharing and how it's tied to their developmental stage.- Learn about the 'sportscasting' technique and how it can guide children to resolve conflicts and develop empathy.- Understand the benefits of turn-taking and how it can stretch a child's attention span and aid in learning.- Get tips on how to support your child through the turn-taking process and why stepping back sometimes can be beneficial.Resources:- Check out our courses for in-depth guidance on navigating toddler behaviors and other parenting challenges.Connect:- Share your stories or questions at drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com.Remember, you're already doing great as a big-hearted parent. Join us for more insights and let's continue growing together. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating picky eating in toddlers is a common challenge rooted in their developmental journey toward food independence and exploration of tastes. To ease this phase, it's crucial to avoid pressuring a toddler to eat and instead adopt a relaxed approach. Create a positive mealtime atmosphere by emphasizing enjoyable family gatherings, focusing on the meal experience over food, and keeping mealtimes technology-free for bonding. Steer clear of pressure-inducing phrases and avoid labeling foods as 'good' or 'bad.' Encouraging children to make some food choices can fulfill their need for independence, and remember that your role is to decide what, where, and when they eat while a child determines how much they eat. Involving kids in meal planning, cooking, and grocery shopping can engage them with food. Patience is key, as changes in eating habits take time. If picky eating is accompanied by significant behavioral challenges, consulting a doctor is advisable.Actionable takeaways:- Avoid pressuring kids to eat.- Create a positive mealtime atmosphere.- Refrain from using pressure-inducing phrases.- Encourage children to make food choices.- Involve kids in meal planning and cooking. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we explored the common belief that sugar causes hyperactivity in children. We delved into the origins of this myth, tracing it back to Dr. Ben Feingold's 1975 book "Why Your Child Is Hyperactive." The episode unpacked the historical context of the 1970s, when concerns over ADHD medications like Ritalin were rising, making the idea of dietary control over hyperactivity attractive to parents.Key points covered include:Early Studies: Initial research suggests a link between sugar intake, insulin production, adrenaline boost, and hyperactivity.Pivotal 1994 Study: A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found no connection between sugar consumption and changes in children's behavior or cognitive functions.Continued Belief in the Myth: Despite the scientific evidence, the persistence of the sugar-high myth.Importance of a Balanced Diet: Emphasizing the benefits of limiting sugar intake for overall health, beyond behavior management.DM us on Instagram with your opinions or experiences related to this topic.Stay tuned for more parenting insights and discussions.Remember, while sugar might not be the culprit behind hyperactivity, it's still crucial to maintain a balanced diet for your child's overall health and well-being. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High-Energy ToddlersIn this episode, we dive into the world of high-energy toddlers, sharing personal stories and expert advice for managing their boundless enthusiasm.Real-Life Parenting Challenges: Dr. Cathryn shares personal experiences, from navigating public spaces with an energetic toddler to handling embarrassing moments in professional settings.Understanding Toddler Behavior: We discuss how normal it is for toddlers to exhibit high energy levels as they explore their independence and self-control, which are still developing.Effective Strategies for Managing High Energy: - Creating a safe play area at home for independent exploration. - Toddler-proofing to provide more freedom, not more restrictions. - Engaging in physical activities like dancing, playing ball, or structured games that encourage body awareness.Appreciating Your Child's Energy: Learn how to balance active play with calming downtime and why it's important to appreciate your child’s zest for life.Long-Term Outlook: Insights into how high-energy toddlers often grow into focused and driven adults.Actionable Takeaways: - The importance of creating a safe space for exploration. - Encouraging physical activity as a positive outlet. - The role of sleep in managing hyperactivity. - Addressing concerns about conditions like ADD.When to Seek Professional Advice: Guidelines on when to talk to a healthcare provider about your child's energy levels and behavior.For more insights and tips on managing high-energy toddlers, tune into this episode! Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maximizing Playtime - Less is More!Episode Summary: In today's extra-bite-sized podcast, we delve deeper into the world of play and its impact on child development. We explore how fewer, open-ended toys can enhance creativity, and discuss organizing play spaces, toy rotations, and the importance of tidying up with tots.Key Points:1. Toys that Talk Less, Teach More: Limit toys that talk to encourage more parental interaction and better language development.2. Organized Play Spaces: Assign a home for each toy, ideally on open shelves. Use trays or boxes for easy mobility.3. The Magic of Fewer Toys: Discover how having fewer toys can lead to more creative, deeper, and longer play sessions.4. Books Everywhere: Books are an exception to the fewer toys principle; scatter them around the house to encourage reading.5. Effective Toy Rotations: Learn how rotating toys can keep your home tidy and your child's playtime fresh and engaging.6. Tidying Up with Tots: Tips on making clean-up fun and educational, integrating it seamlessly into playtime.7. Positive Post-Cleanup Plans: Encourage cooperation with positive reinforcement and look forward to activities after tidy-up.8. The Power of Partnership: Make clean-up a joint activity to lighten the task and enhance the bonding experience.9. Less is More Takeaway: Emphasize the value of fewer, versatile toys for enriching your child’s play experience. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nurturing Hungry Little Minds through Play This episode delves into why play is much more than just fun for toddlers - it's essential for their mental and emotional development. Key Topics Covered: - The developmental significance of play for growing minds and hearts. - Debunking the myth that expensive, high-tech toys are necessary for child development. - Encouraging independent play and its benefits in fostering self-reliance and creativity.Practical Tips: - Ideas for encouraging independent play, like creating a safe play space (the 'Yay Place') and choosing versatile, imagination-inspiring toys. - Understanding that high-tech toys may not always be the best choice for fostering creativity.Listener Question:Addressing Tanya's concern about her 2-year-old's behavior during time-outs, with an introduction to the E.A.S.Y. method for managing misbehavior.Stay tuned for more insights on making the most of your child's playtime and nurturing their development in a fun and engaging way! Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Cathryn delves into the piercing world of toddler shrieks and screams, a phase that's as challenging as it is common. We share a story that brings this issue close to home for many, discuss why toddlers go through this phase and present big-hearted strategies to manage and mitigate the high decibels. Our conversation covers the developmental aspects of why toddlers scream, from seeking attention to sheer joy, and offers playful and calming techniques to teach toddlers about volume control. We reassure parents that this is just a phase, often without any need for medical concern, and even share a hopeful anecdote about a child's transformation from family shrieker to professional opera singer.This episode also responds to a heartfelt question from a listener named Martha, concerning her 2.5-year-old's anger expression. We navigate the tricky terrain of tantrums, advising on the importance of direct communication, validating feelings, and ensuring that toddlers get ample sleep for better emotional regulation. We wrap up with a reminder that big emotions are a healthy part of development and emphasize the value of understanding and allowing these feelings in a safe space. For those seeking to dive deeper, we point you toward our courses and invite you to submit your own parenting conundrums for discussion on the podcast. To access all the resources mentioned and learn more about the big-hearted parenting techniques we advocate, check out the shownotes, and join us again next week for more insights. Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've ever felt drained from negotiating, bribing, or enforcing time-outs, tune in to discover a simple yet effective tool to turn the tides: your attention. Learn how shifting your focus to what your child is doing well can create lasting change, illustrated by real-life examples. Join us as we help you navigate the parenting journey with big-hearted, empathetic guidance. A smoother, happier daily routine could be just 10 seconds away! Links and resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_babyCheck out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy CourseOur NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20Does potty training terrify you? Discover 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training. Get our free guide and empower your child. Set the path for success! Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments. 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. Episode website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices