Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

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 Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

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 Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

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 Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

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 Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

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 Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

Dr. Cathryn discusses common potty training mistakes and introduces a relaxed "lazy potty training" approach. She shares insights from her 35 years of experience working with families. Key points: • Avoid subtle pressure through big reactions • Focus on intrinsic motivation instead of rewards • See accidents as learning opportunities Learn more about stress-free potty training in our online course "Potty Training Made Easy". Link in show notes. LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy SPONSORS: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn dives into the ups and downs of parenting spirited children, sharing personal anecdotes and offering actionable tips for channeling their endless curiosity. - Create a Safe Play Zone: Ensure your home is toddler-proof so your child can explore safely and freely. - Engage in Active Games: Use activities like 'Simon Says' to teach self-control and help toddlers manage their energy effectively. - Balance with Quiet Time: Incorporate calming activities to teach balance and self-regulation, ensuring they also get sufficient rest. Join us for an insightful look into embracing the lively toddler years with love and understanding, plus a special introduction to our online course, "Toddlers Made Easy," designed to help you enjoy this wild, wonderful phase. LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy SPONSORS: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

Today, Dr. Cathryn delves into the importance of setting firm, yet kind, boundaries to help children manage their emotions and feel secure. Our "Calm, Connect, and Communicate" method offers a practical way to maintain composure and set clear limits, improving your child's ability to cope with frustrations. Key Highlights: - Understand the Role of Boundaries: Learn why setting clear limits is essential for your child's emotional and behavioral development. - Master the 3 Cs: Our method of Calm, Connect, and Communicate helps you address challenging situations with composure and consistency. For more insights and a deeper dive into big-hearted parenting, check out the full episode. LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy SPONSORS: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

In this episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," Dr. Cathryn introduces a refreshing perspective on potty training, termed "lazy potty training." This approach emphasizes a relaxed, supportive environment where toddlers lead their own journey to bathroom independence, without the stress and pressure typical of more traditional methods. Dr. Cathryn explains the benefits of this method, including fostering confidence, body awareness, and strengthening the parent-child bond. The episode includes practical tips for implementing this strategy and a discussion on the importance of a supportive, non-pressurized approach in helping children feel valued and understood. For those seeking additional guidance, Dr. Cathryn mentions a resource available in the show notes and provides a link to the comprehensive "Potty Training Made Easy" course. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: ONESKIN.CO 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, 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.

In today's episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," Dr. Cathryn unravels the complexities of nighttime potty training, contrasting it with the successes of daytime training. Through Mia's experiences, we explore the natural developmental processes that affect nighttime dryness and discuss when it might be necessary to seek medical advice. Key Points: - Daytime vs. Nighttime Challenges: Why success in daytime potty training doesn't always translate to nighttime dryness. - Biological Factors: The role of developmental factors like bladder size, hormonal levels, and constipation in bedwetting. - Approach to Nighttime Training: Recommendations on letting nature take its course, reducing stress for children and parents. - Health Guidance: Indicators for consulting a healthcare provider about bedwetting. Insta Made Easy Announcement: Introducing our new venture designed to empower entrepreneurs through targeted Instagram strategies. Join us as we provide supportive, research-based insights into parenting challenges, coupled with exciting updates on our latest projects. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: Hello Fresh It's faster than delivery! CrunchLabs: https://www.crunchlabs.com Purchase this limited Camp CrunchLabs subscription and get 2 boxes free, a $60 value. Go to crunchlabs.com/TODDLERS to sign your kids up for Camp CrunchLabs today!  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, 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.

In this special 100th episode of 'Toddlers Made Easy,' I'm taking a moment to step back from our usual discussions to share something deeply personal—my own story. We'll explore the journey that led me here, the challenges I've faced, and the victories I've celebrated. This episode is a chance for me to connect with each of you on a more personal level, sharing the experiences that have shaped my approach to parenting and professional life. Next week, we'll return to our regular programming, armed with new insights and continued support for your parenting journey. But today, let's take this moment together to reflect on the paths we've traveled and the stories we carry with us. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta_made_easy ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: Hello Fresh It's faster than delivery! CrunchLabs: https://www.crunchlabs.com Purchase this limited Camp CrunchLabs subscription and get 2 boxes free, a $60 value. Go to crunchlabs.com/TODDLERS to sign your kids up for Camp CrunchLabs today!  Better Help: betterhelp.com 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, 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.

Potty Training Made Easy In this episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," Dr. Cathryn shares stress-free tips for potty training using a no-pressure approach. Learn how to make this milestone smooth and positive for you and your toddler. Key Takeaways: 1. No-Pressure Approach: Encourage without pressure to foster confidence and self-accomplishment. 2. View Accidents as Lessons: Treat accidents as learning opportunities without shame. 3. Bare Bottom Day: Start with a no-pants day to help your child recognize bodily signals. 4. Choose the Right Time: Dedicate a few relaxed days for focused potty training. 5. Genuine Encouragement: Support progress without inadvertently pressuring your child. Dr. Cathryn emphasizes that a no-pressure approach empowers your child, making potty training a positive experience. Happy parenting! Subscribe to "Toddlers Made Easy" for more big-hearted, practical parenting advice. Have a lovely week! LINKS AND RESOURCES: Instagram Made Ridiculously Easy! Follow me here →@insta.for.mompreneurs ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: Hello Fresh It's faster than delivery! CrunchLabs: https://www.crunchlabs.com Purchase this limited Camp CrunchLabs subscription and get 2 boxes free, a $60 value. Go to crunchlabs.com/TODDLERS to sign your kids up for Camp CrunchLabs today!  Better Help: betterhelp.com 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, 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.

In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of helping children manage disappointment and build frustration tolerance. Sharing personal stories, including a time when my daughter bravely tried out for a boys' soccer team and another when my son lost a baseball game, we explore the importance of allowing kids to experience their emotions fully. Instead of shielding them from discomfort, we should validate their feelings, empathize, and provide support without immediately trying to fix the situation. By doing so, we help our children develop resilience and the skills needed to navigate life's challenges. Tune in for practical tips on how to respond thoughtfully to your child's frustration and why it's crucial to let them feel their emotions while ensuring they don't face them alone. Plus, stay tuned for some exciting news coming up next week! LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: CrunchLabs: https://www.crunchlabs.com Purchase this limited Camp CrunchLabs subscription and get 2 boxes free, a $60 value. Go to crunchlabs.com/TODDLERS to sign your kids up for Camp CrunchLabs today!  Better Help: betterhelp.com 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, 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.

Today, we explore whether manners matter for toddlers. Manners, like small acts of kindness, show care and respect, creating a more compassionate world. Teaching "please" and "thank you" instills empathy, helps kids value others, and fosters self-respect. Leading by example is crucial as children learn from us. Ready for a positive change? Check out the Toddlers Made Easy online course to reduce meltdowns, increase cooperation, and build a happier, more confident child and a closer, more positive relationship. Happy parenting! LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: A Place Of Yes Podcast: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/news/podcast/ Better Help: betterhelp.com 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, 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.

In this episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," we're diving into the EASY method—a transformative technique to help you navigate toddler tantrums with grace and effectiveness. Inspired by my own experiences as a pediatrician and a mom, EASY is all about creating a calm and connected approach to those challenging moments. Let’s break it down: **E**valuate: Take a power pause to create space between your child’s behavior and your reaction. Use deep breathing or grounding techniques to calm your nervous system. **A**cknowledge Feelings: Show your child that you understand their emotions. A simple acknowledgment like, "You’re upset because you wanted that toy," makes them feel seen and valued. **S**tick to Boundaries: This is where the real work happens. Being gentle is important, but so is being firm. Setting clear, consistent boundaries helps your child feel safe and learn what's acceptable. **Y**es: Pivot to a positive yes. It’s not about giving in, but about teaching what they can do instead. “You can’t play with Joey’s truck, but you can choose another toy.” We’ll see this in action with real-life examples, like how Lily’s hitting at daycare was managed with EASY, leading to a week without incidents. Or handling bedtime slaps with calm acknowledgment, firm boundaries, and offering choices.  Remember, discipline at this age is about teaching, not punishment. Toddlers need guidance and support, not fear and shame. Implementing EASY helps them develop the skills they need to manage their impulses and emotions. Join us to learn more about this compassionate approach to parenting and become the parent you’ve always wanted to be. LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: ONE SKIN: https://www.oneskin.co/ BRIGHTSIDED PODCAST: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/news/podcast/ 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, 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.

In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, we explore effective strategies to prevent and manage picky eating in toddlers. Understanding toddler behavior is key, as food choices become a primary area of autonomy. How you respond to this natural pickiness can influence whether it becomes an entrenched habit. We delve into the concept of the Fussy Food Loop, highlighting how to avoid common reactions that may worsen picky eating. From a developmental perspective, babies are generally open to various foods, while toddlers' growth and cognitive changes can lead to unpredictable eating habits. A Big-Hearted Interpretation (BHI) encourages looking at mealtime from your toddler's perspective. Trusting and empowering your child, rather than pressuring them, is crucial. We discuss the importance of using positive language to encourage trying new foods and avoiding the pitfalls of becoming a short-order cook. Recognizing red flags is essential, as picky eating might sometimes indicate a more serious issue, such as poor weight gain or developmental concerns. For more strategies and support, check out the Toddlers Made Easy course, linked in the show notes. Remember, you don’t have to be a perfect parent to raise an awesome kid. LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: ONE SKIN: https://www.oneskin.co/ BRIGHTSIDED PODCAST: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/news/podcast/ 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, 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.

In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn, a pediatrician and mother of four, along with her lovable Goldendoodle Smudge, dives into the topic of kids and pets.  From the benefits of having a furry friend to considerations when choosing the right pet for your family, Dr. Cathryn explores it all. She discusses how pets can boost children's self-esteem, provide companionship, and teach responsibility. Plus, she shares fascinating insights into how pets can contribute to children's physical health and academic development. There is a link for free Toddler and Dog Guide link below. Dr. Cathryn also addresses important safety considerations, regarding toddlers and dogs. She provides valuable tips from Domenika @dogmeets_baby. Domenika is an expert in safety on ensuring harmonious and safe interaction between your little one and your four-legged family member. You’ll find the link below for an amazing dog meets baby guide. Also, don’t miss out on our amazing Mother’s Day Sale, more about it in the shownotes. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Dog Meets Baby Guide ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby SPONSORS: ONE SKIN: https://www.oneskin.co/ BRIGHTSIDED PODCAST: https://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/news/podcast/ 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, 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.

Dr Cathryn is tackling a topic that might seem simple but is actually a big deal for little ones: understanding time. Hear about Marcus, a 3.5-year-old who loves the swings but struggles when it's time to leave. Why? Because his mom is giving a warning like this: “We’re leaving in 5 minutes.” Kids can't see or touch time, so they don't understand it like adults do. But as they grow, they start to get it through routines and daily patterns.  Today’s Tips: 1. Use Sequences: Tell your child, "First park, then lunch, then playdate." It helps them understand the order of events. 2. Visual Timers: These show how much time is left in a way kids can see. 3. Sand Timers: A simple tool that helps kids see time passing. 4. OK WAKE UP Clocks: Helps your child know when it's okay to get out of bed by showing a green light. 5. Bonus Tip: Use calendars or a bead necklace to countdown to special days. Thanks for tuning in to Toddlers Made Easy, where we make the tough parts of parenting easier! Interested in more tools and big ideas to help during these challenging but crucial years? Check out our Toddlers Made Easy course for parents of 1 to 6-year-olds. It's a game-changer for your sanity and your child's development! LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby ONE SKIN: https://www.oneskin.co/ 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, 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.

Welcome to the Toddlers Made Easy podcast with Dr. Cathryn. Today, we're exploring why toddlers can appear selfish and how to handle it. We’ll discuss how toddlers’ brain development impacts their behavior, and offer strategies for teaching them to manage their emotions without shaming or punishing them. Whether it's dealing with gift disappointment or sharing struggles, we're here to help you understand these challenging but normal developmental phases and turn them into teachable moments. If you're navigating the highs and lows of toddler behavior, this episode is packed with insights and tips for more harmonious days. Don't miss out on our course, "Toddlers Made Easy," for more in-depth guidance. Check the link in the show notes to learn more! LINKS AND RESOURCES: ONLINE COURSES Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  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  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby FactorMeals 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, 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.

Dr. Cathryn takes a deep dive into what happens when standard parenting advice doesn't seem to cut it. Despite trying expert strategies, some problems persist, and today, we're focusing on sleep issues that remain challenging despite parents' best efforts. We'll explore real-life struggles parents face when routines don't pan out as planned, and discuss tailored approaches that might work better. In this episode: 1. The Easy-Does-It Method Fails: A parent shares the struggle of bedtime battles with their 3-year-old, from hitting to hair-pulling. Dr. Cathryn discusses the possibility of overtiredness, the importance of understanding behavior triggers, and strategies for teaching kids to express their frustrations constructively. 2. Endless Bedtime with Mia: Four-year-old Mia can't seem to settle down at bedtime, constantly asking for "one more story." We'll talk about adjusting bedtimes, acknowledging feelings while maintaining boundaries, and practical tips for helping Mia feel connected and calm at bedtime. 3. Nighttime Fears: A parent is concerned about their 3.5-year-old's recent bedtime fears. Based on effective research findings, Dr. Cathryn introduces a comforting strategy involving a stuffed animal to help the child manage fears and build empathy. Dr. Cathryn wraps up by reminding listeners that while generic advice can be helpful, personalized adjustments are key to meeting your child's unique needs. Remember, you're the expert on your child.  Thank you for tuning in, and keep nurturing those little ones with love and understanding. 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, drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com LINKS AND RESOURCES: Our *bestselling* online courses are already helping thousands of parents: Toddlers Made Easy Course Potty Training Made Easy  Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby 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  FactorMeals 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.