In this episode, Cyndi sits down with Mandy Richardson, early parenting specialist, founder of Raise Toddlers, and a mum of three, to explore the critical early years of child development (birth to six years). With a master’s in child and Family Studies and ongoing PhD research in respectful parenting approaches, Mandy combines academic expertise with real-world experience to guide parents and educators toward more connected, reflective, and effective parenting.

They discuss:

• The history of parenting and how approaches have shifted from behaviour management to understanding child development.


• Why respectful parenting focuses on connection, communication, and understanding a child’s unique wiring.


• How environment and upbringing shape behaviour—city life vs rural or traditional village settings.


• The role of reflective parenting in reducing stress and building stronger relationships.


• Practical examples of supporting toddlers through big emotions, avoiding power struggles, and promoting self-regulation.


• How recognising individual sensory profiles can help children manage frustration, energy, and focus.


• Mandy’s mission to move from a clinical intervention model to preventative parenting support that sets children up for lifelong emotional and physical health.

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or early childhood professional, this conversation offers actionable insights to help the children in your life grow into confident, capable, and emotionally resilient individuals.

About Mandy

Mandy Richardson is an Early parenting specialist, and the founder of Raise Toddlers, a platform dedicated to supporting parents and early childhood professionals in raising children from birth to six years old. With a Masters in Child and family Studies and ongoing PhD research in Respectful Parenting Approaches, Mandy combines academic expertise with practical experience to offer evidence-based guidance on toddler development and parenting practices.

As a mother of three, Mandy brings a personal perspective to her work, having navigated toddlerhood firsthand. Through Raise Toddlers, she provides resources such as the Raise Toddlers Membership, which offers short, digestible videos and a supportive community to help parents address common toddler challenges while maintaining their own well-being.

Mandy’s approach emphasizes a natural, slow-paced, and peaceful childhood, focusing on fostering positive parent-child relationships and promoting respectful parenting practices. She is also a frequent guest on parenting podcasts, where she shares insights on topics like screen time, toddler behavior, and new perspectives to parenting in the early years.

Where to find Mandy

Website: https://raisetoddlers.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisetoddlers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisetoddlers/#

Cyndi O’Meara Links

Website – https://thenutrition.academy/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/

https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovetto

https://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy