Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

Your little one is missing you. Maybe it's daycare drop-off. Maybe it's 2 am. Maybe it's a sleepover at Nana's with a lot of very loud feelings.This episode is about the simple things that make separation easier — not just in the hard moments, but all the time.Dr. Cathryn shares the 10-second ritual she uses with her own granddaughter, plus four practical tools to help little kids carry the feeling of connection with them wherever they go.You'll learn:A simple breath-and-kiss ritual that calms the nervous system fastWhy family photos at eye level in the bedroom do more than you'd thinkThe recordable button that lets your child hear your voice whenever they need itWhy these tools only work if you're not saving them for emergenciesThe goal isn't just getting through the hard moment. It's building a belief your child carries with them: I am loved. I am connected. The bond never breaks.📖 Mentioned in this episode: The Invisible String by Patrice Karst🚀 Potty training is one of the moments connection matters most. My Potty Training Made Easy program gets you from diapers to dry in 30 days — with no pressure, no shame, and no power struggles. Because how your little one feels during potty training matters just as much as whether they get there. Tap HereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your little kid pees on the potty just fine — but when it comes to poop? Diaper only, thank you very much.You haven't done anything wrong. This is one of the most common potty-training hiccups, affecting 20–25% of little kids. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down exactly why it happens and what actually helps.You'll learn:The real reason most kids resist (hint: it's fear, not stubbornness)What to say — and what not to say Simple ways to make the potty feel safer and less overwhelmingHow to move toward the potty in tiny, low-pressure stepsWhy stool softness matters more than most parents realizeThis isn't about saying enough is enough. It's about understanding what's driving the resistance — and meeting your child there.🎓 Ready to go deeper? Mini-course: Help! My Child Will Only Poop in a Diaper →See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever feel like your toddler’s tantrums come out of nowhere—and take forever to end? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, Dr. Cathryn shares a big-hearted, science-backed approach to handling tantrums that actually works.RESOURCES:I’m running a short class for exhausted parents who want more sleep (without cry-it-out). Want the details? TAP HEREOrder my book ⁠⁠Toddlers Made Easy ⁠⁠Follow me on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 5:1 rule is one of the most practical tools a parent can have — and it's simpler than you think.Originally researched by psychologist John Gottman in marriages, the principle maps directly onto parenting: for every correction, aim for five positive interactions first. Not a tally. Just an intention to tip the balance toward warmth.In this episode, we cover:Why your relationship with your child works like a bank accountHow our negativity bias works against us as parents — and how to counteract itWhat a positive interaction actually looks like (hint: it's not empty praise)How the way you talk to your child becomes their inner voiceThe goal isn't perfection. It's just tipping the balance.🎙️ Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a parent who needs to hear it.👉 Join me live April 30th for Potty Without Pushback — my free workshop on how to go from diapers to dry without the power struggles, overwhelm, or feeling like you're doing it wrong.Save your spot hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you stuck in the potty training start-stop loop? You try, it falls apart, you stop — and now you're dreading starting again. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why potty battles happen, why your first attempt wasn't a failure, and how one simple shift can change everything.In this episode:Why kids push back against potty training (it's not stubbornness)The real reason accidents happen more than you thinkKyle's story — and the one change that made all the differenceHow to reintroduce the potty without pressure or battlesThe simple phrase that puts your child back in controlReady to restart or start for the first time? Join Dr. Cathryn's free workshop, Potty Without Pushback — April 30th at 10am EST. RESOURCESPotty Without Pushback Workshop: TAP HERE TO SAVE YOUR SEAT APRIL 30th, 10 AM ESTYOU'LL WALK AWAY KNOWING:A kinder, quicker way to ditch diapers for goodHow to potty train without the power struggles Why your child needs to know "I'm the boss of my body"The big-hearted way to promote independence, body awareness, and boost your child's confidence. What to do when things go sideways — accidents, setbacks, refusalsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Being a toddler is tough—and parenting one can feel just as hard.In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down why toddlers struggle with impulse control, what’s really behind their behavior, and how to respond in ways that actually work.You’ll learn how to guide—not punish—using simple, developmentally-smart strategies that reduce chaos and build cooperation.What You’ll Learn:Why toddler impulsivity is normal (not “bad behavior”)How to prevent challenges before they startWhy supervision beats discipline every timeSimple ways to handle transitions and big emotionsHow noticing the good changes behavior fast👩‍⚕️ Join me on Instagram 🧡 Toddlers Made Easy Course – Get expert guidance on handling tantrums, power struggles, and discipline.🚽 Potty Training Made Easy – A stress-free approach to potty training.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Every parent hits a breaking point. Here's how to stop before you get there.In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn shares three simple steps to stay calm — even when your toddler is pushing every button you have.What You'll Learn: ✔ Why toddlers don't listen (and how to work with their development, not against it) ✔ The real reason parents snap — and it's not just about your toddler's behavior ✔ 3 practical steps to keep your cool when you feel triggered ✔ A bonus tip that makes staying calm even easierJoin me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ONE thing you can do right away to get your kids to listen tap hereToddlers Made Easy, our bestselling courseSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Potty pushback doesn't mean you're doing it wrong — it means your toddler is doing exactly what toddlers do. In this episode, we dig into why resistance happens and what actually works to move through it.Potty resistance is developmentally normal. Toddlers are hardwired to seek control, and the bathroom is one of the few places they have it — once you understand that, the pushback stops feeling personal.More pressure almost always makes things worse. The stories of Chelsea and Eli show how escalating effort led to zero progress — and how easing up was the real turning point.Four strategies that actually work: prompt less (every 2 hours max), offer two real choices, lead with play and silliness, and build a routine by pairing potty time with something your child already loves.Whether you're in the thick of training or just getting started, these research-backed, kid-forward tools will help you stay out of the power struggle — and on your toddler's team.Resources:Potty Training Made Easy See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your toddler waking multiple times a night and ending up in your bed? You're not alone — and more importantly, it's fixable.In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down the real reason most toddlers wake at night (hint: it's not to drive you crazy), and what you can do to help them sleep through — gently and without the tears.You'll learn:The sleep cycle science that explains why toddlers wake — and why how they fall asleep matters so muchThe "pillow and blanket" analogy that finally makes it click3 common mistakes that make night wakings worseWhy sleep deprivation is more serious than most parents realizeOther causes of night wakings — from new siblings to medical issues worth discussing with your pediatricianMentioned in this episode:Why Won't My Child Go to Sleep Without Me? Part 1Why Won't My Child Go to Sleep Without Me? Part 2Sleep Masterclass: → Tap HereHave a question or story to share? DM Dr. Cathryn on Instagram or email us at drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do toddlers really need chores? In this episode, I share why young children want to help — and why letting them contribute builds confidence, responsibility, and a deep sense of belonging. You’ll hear: Why toddlers are naturally wired to help How tiny tasks build big confidence Why you don’t need chore charts at this age How early participation shapes responsible teens later on Chores at this stage aren’t about productivity. They’re about connection, competence, and feeling valued in the family. If this resonates, explore my Toddlers Made Easy course for more big-hearted, practical strategies that make parenting life easier. RESOURCES: 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Toddlers Made Easy online course 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox Sponsor: Laundry SauceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we talk about what to do when toddler tantrums turn physical—hitting, kicking, or throwing things. When you understand what’s happening inside your child’s brain, it becomes much easier to stay calm and respond in a way that protects both safety and self-esteem. You'll learn: Why aggressive tantrums happen: Toddlers feel big emotions but don’t yet have the impulse control or problem-solving skills to manage them. What to do in the moment: Focus on safety first, stay close and calm, and avoid lectures while your child is overwhelmed. How to help long-term: After the storm passes, teach simple skills—like asking for a turn or using words—to handle big feelings next time. This episode is made possible by our partner, Laundry Sauce. RESOURCES 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Tantrum Crash Course mini-class 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bedtime was easy… until it wasn’t.And suddenly your 3-year-old is fighting sleep, stalling, crying — and maybe even climbing out of the crib. In this Q&A episode, I answer two common parent questions: #1. Why a great sleeper suddenly starts resisting bedtime at age 3#2. Why toddlers throw things — and how to respond calmly and effectively We’ll talk about sleep changes, dropping naps, big transitions (like a new sibling or starting school), and what throwing really means and how to stop it. RESOURCES: 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You mini-class 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletter SPONSORS: Laundry Sauce: See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a child is naturally kind and eager to help—especially with a new sibling—it can look beautiful on the outside… and still raise quiet worries on the inside. In this episode, we talk about how to nurture empathy without teaching a child to disappear herself—and how to keep helping a choice, not a role. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between helping as a choice and helping as a responsibility Why constant praise for being “helpful” can unintentionally teach self-sacrifice What to say (out loud) so your child knows caregiving is not her job How to praise self-advocacy—not just kindness Simple shifts that keep your child developmentally centered on herself This episode is especially meaningful for parents of eldest children and those raising deeply empathetic kids. 🎧 If this big-hearted approach resonates with you, explore Toddlers Made Easy—my practical, developmentally informed course for everyday toddler challenges, in under five minutes a day. RESOURCES: 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox Sponsor: Laundry SauceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your toddler should be able to listen, wait, share, or calm down—and felt frustrated when they couldn’t—this episode is for you. In today’s episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about how unrealistic expectations quietly create power struggles, tantrums, and exhaustion—and how small mindset shifts can make parenting feel much easier. You’ll learn: Why many common expectations don’t match toddler brain development How adjusting expectations can prevent tantrums and power struggles What to realistically expect from 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds How a big-hearted lens helps you stay calm while holding boundaries 🎧 If this approach resonates with you, explore Toddlers Made Easy—my practical, big-hearted course designed for real-life toddler challenges, and it takes under five minutes a day. 👉 Learn more at Toddlers Made Easy, the online course RESOURCES: 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox SPONSORS: Laundry Sauce See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tantrums aren’t misbehavior—they’re a sign your child’s system is overloaded. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about how your calmness (not your words) is the key to helping tantrums pass without escalating. You’ll learn: Why reasoning and “calm down” don’t work in the middle of a tantrum When to stay close and quiet—and when to step in for safety How sharing your calm helps your child regain theirs 🎧 Want more big-hearted, practical tools for tantrums, bedtime, and everyday power struggles? Explore Toddlers Made Easy online course. RESOURCES: 👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠ 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about why sharing is so hard early on, what toddlers are actually capable of, and how to handle toy struggles without forcing lessons their brains aren’t ready to learn. You’ll learn how to support your toddler’s big feelings, keep everyone safe, and gently guide sharing skills as they develop—without pressure, shame, or power struggles. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why toddlers aren’t developmentally ready to share (and when that changes) What to say and do when your child grabs toys or melts down at the park How forcing sharing can backfire—and what works better instead Want more big-hearted tools like this?Check out Toddlers Made Easy, my online course with simple, practical strategies for tantrums, boundaries, sharing, sleep, and everyday toddler struggles—designed to make parenting calmer in just a few minutes a day. 👉 Learn more at Toddlers Made Easy RESOURCES: RESOURCES: 👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠ 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When kids ignore us, it can feel personal. Disrespectful. Triggering.But what if “not listening” isn’t a behavior problem at all? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why toddlers and preschoolers struggle with cooperation, what’s really happening in their developing brains, and why yelling may work in the moment—but backfires long-term. You’ll learn how to help your child cooperate without threats, bribes, or power struggles, using big-hearted strategies that help kids feel seen, safe, and more willing to listen. Because when kids aren’t listening, they’re not being difficult—they’re developing. RESOURCES: 👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠ 👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠ 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr Cathryn unpacks what to do before potty training starts—how to prepare your home, your child, and yourself— so the process feels calmer, easier, and more manageable. Set up your space to reduce stress Small home-prep steps—like easy cleanup, clear paths to the potty, and stable seating—lower frustration and support learning. Warm up your child without pressure Simple, playful practice helps kids connect body signals to the potty before anything feels urgent. Focus on confidence, not control A big-hearted approach builds body awareness, minimizes power struggles, and keeps you connected through the messy moments. 🎉 Free Potty Party coming in early February! I’ll be hosting a free 3-day Potty Party to walk you through big-hearted potty training and help you feel ready and confident before you begin. More details coming soon—stay tuned. RESOURCES: 👉 Join the big-hearted membership: The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting 👉 Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram 👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Potty training doesn’t begin with underwear or sticker charts. It starts with you. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains how potty training isn’t just about whether your toddler is ready. Your readiness matters too. Key takeaways: Mantras like "This phase won't last forever" anchor you mid-chaos. Cleanup baskets + simple mindset shifts make accidents no big deal. Accidents = lessons, not failures, helping you to respond warm, not rattled. If you’re about to start potty training (or stuck in the middle of it), this episode helps you feel grounded, clear, and ready to lead with calm. RESOURCES: Grab the FREE 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training guide and get your child curious, confident, and excited before you begin. Want more support. Get Potty Training Made Easy: the step-by-step big-hearted approach to saying goodbye to diapers. Special price-over 60% OFF for listeners only. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why does your toddler say no to everything — even things they usually do without a problem? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains the “you-can’t-make-me” reflex — a very normal (and healthy) stage of toddler development that often gets mistaken for defiance. You’ll learn: Why toddler resistance is about development, not disrespect What’s happening inside your child’s brain when “no” comes out fast The situations that make resistance worse (and why) What not to do if you want cooperation Simple, big-hearted ways to guide your child through resistance without power struggles If mornings feel like constant pushback and you’re wondering, “Why is everything so hard?” — this episode will help you see your toddler differently and respond with more calm and confidence. RESOURCES: The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting membership Toddlers Made Easy - a sweet & smart online course Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram Sign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.