Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

Why the Toddler Years Aren't What You Think Episode Overview: The "terrible twos" aren't terrible—they're transformational. This episode reframes toddlerhood from a stage to survive into the most critical developmental window for building emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-esteem. What You'll Learn: Why your toddler's brain is 80% grown by age 3 (but still under construction) How everyday meltdowns are actually brain-building moments The 1930s origin of "terrible twos" and why that label hurts parents and kids Simple language shifts that turn tantrums into teaching opportunities Why play is serious developmental work—not just fun How to respond to big emotions without giving in or shutting down Key Takeaway: Your toddler isn't being difficult on purpose—they're learning how to feel, wait, share, and cope. When you shift your mindset from "surviving" to "shaping," everything changes. Perfect For: Parents drowning in tantrums, power struggles, and cold coffee who want to understand what's really happening in their toddler's brain—and how to make these years easier (and more meaningful). Resources: Get the big-hearted course that makes parenting easier Toddlers Made Easy Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Sponsors: Acorn Early Kidsy

In this bite-sized episode, we’re cutting through the confusion around potty training readiness. 👉 Big idea: Readiness = willing + able. But the best way to know? Gently start prepping and see how your child responds. RESOURCES: Get Free Guide- 5 Must-Do's Before Starting Potty Training Guide: https://www.healthiest-baby.com/5-ways-to-make-potty-training-easier Potty Training Made Easy course: Discover the unapologetically lazy potty training method trusted by 1M+ families — no bribes, begging, or battles required. Sponsors: Acorns Early Kidsy

Struggling with toddler resistance? This episode breaks down why your child says "no" to everything and how to work with their natural instincts instead of against them. What You'll Learn What the "You-Can't-Make-Me" reflex is and why it's actually healthy Why toddler brains react with automatic resistance Common triggers (commands, transitions, feeling rushed) What makes things worse (power struggles, taking it personally) Practical strategies for daily routines Key Takeaways The reflex is developmental, not defiance Invite cooperation instead of demanding it Connection is the strongest antidote to resistance Stay calm and confident—you're the CEO Give choices to preserve their sense of control Quick Tips Replace commands with invitations Give transition warnings Pause when resistance peaks Use collaborative language Fill their connection tank with one-on-one time Resources Toddlers Made Easy Help! My Child Will Only Poop In A Diaper Waitlist Toddlers Made Easy, the book SPONSORS Acorns Early Kidsy

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares powerful lessons learned from years on the soccer sidelines with her daughter. These stories reveal how resilience, character, and determination are built—and how parents can support their kids in growing these essential life skills. Key Takeaways: Turning frustration into fuel: How setbacks and bench time taught Mady determination. Choosing character over circumstances: Rising above unfair criticism with grace and effort. The comeback mindset: Overcoming injury and setbacks to reclaim success. Why resilience is something kids develop themselves—and how parents can witness and support that growth. A challenge for parents: Look for opportunities to let your child face challenges independently this week. Connect with Dr. Cathryn:dr.cathryn@healthiest-baby.com RESOURCES: The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting From the exam room to your living room:Dr. Cathryn’s 38+ years of pediatric wisdom—condensed into simple, proven strategies for calmer days, easier nights, and the confidence to trust your gut. Sponsors: Little Spoon Osea Acorns Early

Kids don’t need to be “tough.” They need simple tools that build an inner voice: I can handle this. I can try again. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares quick, doable ways to grow resilience in everyday moments—no shaming, no lectures. Why mistakes are teachers (and how to respond in the moment) How to praise effort so kids keep trying Small, real responsibilities that build capability A parent mindset that supports bounce-back without push or pressure Simple scripts you can use today: “Oops, it spilled—good thing we know how to clean it up together.” “You kept trying until it worked. That’s persistence.” Offer one real job: carry napkins, match socks, pour the dog’s kibble. RESOURCES: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Struggling with tantrums, picky eating, or bedtime battles? The ⁠Toddlers Made Easy⁠ online course gives you simple, 5-minute-a-day strategies to handle every tricky toddler moment with confidence and connection. Start transforming your parenting journey today! Thank you to our sponsors: Acorns Early Osea Little Spoon

Does your toddler scream for only Mommy or refuse to let Daddy help at bedtime? You’re not alone—and it’s not a sign you’re doing something wrong. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why toddlers play favorites, what it really means (hint: it’s about control, not love), and how to handle it without taking it personally. You’ll learn: Why rejection actually shows trust How to respond when your toddler insists on “just one parent” Four practical strategies to manage parental preferences with confidence and calm ✨ Parenting doesn’t have to feel like a competition—listen in and find out how to navigate this tricky stage with empathy and ease. 💡 Want more step-by-step support? My Toddlers Made Easy course is packed with big-hearted scripts and strategies to help you handle tantrums, power struggles, and everyday challenges with calm and confidence. Check the show notes to get started today RESOURCES: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/ Struggling with tantrums, picky eating, or bedtime battles? The ⁠Toddlers Made Easy⁠ online course gives you simple, 5-minute-a-day strategies to handle every tricky toddler moment with confidence and connection. Start transforming your parenting journey today! Thank you to our sponsors Acorns Early, Osea, and Little Spoon

In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn dives into one of the most transformative shifts in parenting: seeing your child not as a problem to fix, but as a person to guide. Discover how a "Big-Hearted Interpretation" can help you reframe challenging toddler behaviors—from tantrums to hitting—and respond with clarity, empathy, and confidence. Dr. Cathryn shares real-life examples, like the sandbox meltdown and hitting at daycare, to show how understanding your child’s developmental stage can change everything. Plus, she offers three practical principles to help you pause, support, and truly see the person behind the behavior. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, or unsure how to handle those big toddler emotions, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: Why toddlers’ behaviors aren’t defiance—they’re development. How to avoid the “Expectation Trap” and respond with calm. Three actionable strategies to handle meltdowns and misbehavior. Resources Mentioned: Toddlers Made Easy Course – Your guide to navigating tantrums, building connection, and holding boundaries with confidence. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow parent who needs a little extra support today!

Learn 3 simple ways to help your toddler feel valued—and watch kindness, confidence, and cooperation grow. When toddlers feel valued—not just loved, but truly valued—they naturally grow into kind, generous, and helpful kids. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares three simple strategies to help your child feel like an important part of the family: Small moments of genuine attention Real jobs that let them contribute Honoring big feelings, even when they’re messy You’ll walk away with practical tools to build your toddler’s confidence and resilience in the everyday chaos of family life. RESOURCES: • Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: ⁠@healthiest_baby⁠ • Join Dr. Cathryn's workshop, Help! My Child Will Only Poop in a Diaper, and get a proven, pediatrician-backed plan to finally move past the diaper-to-potty standoff—for good. Sponsors for this episode: Acorns Early OSEA

Why does “no” stop working with toddlers—and what should you say instead? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down why “no” becomes background noise, what to say that actually works, and how small language shifts can transform power struggles into cooperation. You’ll learn: Why toddlers tune out “no” Simple swaps that get better results Real-life examples you can use today Ready to go deeper? Check out the Big-Hearted School of Parenting for practical, loving strategies that make parenting easier. RESOURCES: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: ⁠@healthiest_baby⁠ Join Dr. Cathryn's live workshop, Help! My Child Will Only Poop in a Diaper, and get a proven, pediatrician-backed plan to finally move past the diaper-to-potty standoff—for good. Sponsors for this episode: Acorns Early OSEA

When you were learning to drive a car, did you just show up on the day of the exam? No, you practiced and prepared for it in stages. Turns out the same approach works with potty training too. We know that prepping a child for changes or events can significantly reduce stress and increase coping skills. But we ignore or forget about this concept when it comes to potty training, which is probably one of the most significant events in a child's early life! Typically we tell our kids, “Okay today we are going to start potty training!” Or maybe we prep them a day or two before. But there is so much more to be done to make potty training easier for your child, and for you! Pre-potty training creates a smoother, easier, and really less stressful experience. If you are approaching the potty training stage, then grab a notebook pen, and let’s dive in!  Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: ⁠@healthiest_baby⁠ The best-selling ⁠Potty Training Made Easy⁠ course is here!⁠ 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! 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.

Drop-offs don’t have to be tearful goodbyes! In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares 5 proven strategies to ease separation anxiety and make goodbyes smoother for both you and your toddler. You’ll learn: Why separation anxiety is actually a sign of healthy attachment. How to create safety before separation and build trust with goodbyes. The power of painting the whole picture and building bridges of connection. How to master a confident goodbye ritual that works every time. Plus, hear a personal story about how a simple question transformed Dr. Cathryn’s own drop-off struggles with her youngest child. If you’re ready to feel more confident during drop-offs and help your child thrive, this episode is for you! Resources Mentioned: The Big-Hearted School of Parenting Membership – Your go-to resource for tackling toddler challenges with science-backed, judgment-free tools. Connect with Dr. Cathryn: Instagram: @healthiest_baby Let’s make parenting easier, together!

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. Links and Resources: Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course Our hugely popular 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! 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. Sponsors: Acorns Early OSEA

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. LINKS AND RESOURCES: MEMBERSHIP Big-Hearted School of Parenting 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! SPONSORS: OSEA ACORNS EARLY

In this sweet and surprising episode, Dr. Cathryn shares a playful, science-backed way to boost your toddler’s confidence and cooperation — all by whispering to their teddy bear. Learn why toddlers respond better to overheard praise, how to highlight the behavior you want more of, and how this simple shift can bring more calm, connection, and “yes!” moments to your day.

🎧 How to Stay Calm When Your Toddler Isn’t: 3 Powerful Mindset Shifts Welcome back to Toddlers Made Easy—the no-fluff podcast for parents in the thick of toddlerhood. I’m Dr. Cathryn—pediatrician (just recently retired), mom of four, and your guide to big-hearted parenting that actually works. Ever feel like you’re one meltdown away from losing it yourself? In today’s episode, I’m sharing 3 mindset shifts that will help you stay calm even when your toddler isn’t. These small but mighty shifts will help you: 💡 React with less guilt and more confidence 💡 Understand misbehavior without taking it personally 💡 Build connection—even in the hardest moments 💭 You’ll learn: Why thinking long-term helps you respond more lovingly in the moment How your toddler’s brain development explains their wild behavior Why “bad behavior” is often just a lack of skills—not defiance 💛 This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up with compassion—for your child and yourself. Want more support? Join The Big-Hearted School of Parenting—your private membership for weekly quick wins, expert coaching, and real-life toddler tools. Because loving your child comes naturally—but staying calm when they’re not? That’s something we can work on together.

In this episode, I’m answering your top potty training concerns: 💩 What to do if your toddler asks for a diaper to poop 😣 Why over-hyping the potty can backfire 🧠 How kids learn to listen to their bodies ❤️ What to do if you lose your cool 🚫 Why I don’t recommend rewards (and what to do instead) This is big-hearted, no-pressure potty support. I call my approach 'Unapologetically Lazy'—because it’s low-stress, yet high in success. ✨ 👉 Ready for a step-by-step plan? Check out my course Potty Training Made Easy:

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares 3 powerful, big-hearted ways to raise a toddler who keeps trying — even when things get tough. You’ll learn why frustration isn’t the enemy, how letting kids help (and mess up!) builds true confidence, and how to give praise that fuels perseverance instead of fear of failure. These tiny shifts create kids who say, “I can do hard things,” even when the zipper won’t budge. RESOURCES The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting membership Follow me on Instagram Join my Newsletter

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares big-hearted, practical ways to help your toddler feel secure, loved, and included when welcoming a new baby. From sharing the news to handling jealousy and sibling meetings, this episode helps big feelings feel a little smaller — for everyone. Resources: The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting Follow Dr Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/

Still waiting for your toddler to want to use the potty? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares why the traditional “wait for readiness” advice might be leading to more stress, not less. You’ll learn: 🚽 Why your smart, capable toddler might be avoiding the potty 🧠 How readiness isn’t a fixed milestone—you can build it. ✨ 5 simple steps to set your child up for potty success (before you ditch diapers) 💪 Why Potty Prep reduces pressure and increases confidence—for both of you. If you’re feeling stuck, this gentle, big-hearted approach is your next step. RESOURCES: FREEBIE: The 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training Online Course: Potty Training Made Easy

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. Order my new book Toddlers Made Easy Join the Big-Hearted School of Parenting Follow me on Instagram