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Transforming The Toddler Years- Parents and Educators Raising Calm, Connected, Capable Kids
Transforming The Toddler Years- Parents and Educators Raising Calm, Connected, Capable Kids
Transforming the Toddler Years is a podcast for parents, caregivers, and educators who view tantrums as learning opportunities. Hosted by early language expert Cara Tyrrell, it blends early childhood science with human connection to raise emotionally intelligent kids. Listeners learn to use intentional language to connect during chaos and turn tantrums into teachable moments.
Episodes
How to Hold Boundaries Without Power Struggles or Meltdowns
How can you hold firm boundaries with toddlers without turning every limit into a power struggle or meltdown? In this episode we explore the difference between rigid, permissive, and collaborative boundaries—and why effective toddler discipline requires both connection and consistency. Learn how collaborative discipline gives children a voice and choices within a clear boundary, helping parents an
Toddler with Speech Delays? Use the OWLS Method for Language Development
What if simply observing, waiting, and listening could help boost your toddler’s language development and communication skills? In this episode, we explore the OWL method—Observe, Wait, and Listen—and how this simple parenting strategy gives toddlers the space they need to practice language, build sentences, and express their thoughts. You’ll learn why repetition and pauses are important for toddl
Sing to Your Baby from Birth. The Connection Power of Music with Vered Benhorin
What if one of the simplest tools for helping your child connect, communicate, and regulate is already in your voice? In this episode, I talk with music therapist, musician, author, and mom Vered Benhorin, about how everyday singing can support connection, language development, transitions, and co-regulation with babies and toddlers. We explore why repetition, rhythm, movement, and that naturally
How Do I Keep Toddlers Entertained During Travel? My Best Advice In One Sentence
What if the best way to keep your toddler entertained is to stop trying to entertain them? In this episode, I unpack the idea of “don’t solve a problem you don’t have” and share why giving children space to be bored, observe, explore, and come up with their own ideas is an important part of building autonomy. I share stories from traveling with my own young children and explain how over-preparing
Teaching Toddlers Manners: Please and Thank You
What if teaching toddlers to say “please” and “thank you” isn’t really about manners at all? In this episode, I explore how we can move beyond forcing polite words and instead help children develop genuine gratitude, connection, cooperation, and humility from the inside out. You’ll learn how music, repetition, modeling, and playful prompts can teach manners without shame, blame, or coercion. I als
Understanding Challenging Preschool Behaviors with Dr. Danielle Dushane
What happens when we stop seeing challenging behavior as a problem to fix and start seeing it as a developmental need to understand? In this episode, Danielle—a mother, educator, and doctoral researcher—joins the conversation to explore how adult expectations, reactions, and past experiences can shape children’s behavior and how proactive, relationship-based approaches can create more successful e
Creative Thinking vs. Creative Play - What a Girl Dad in a Cafe Taught Me
What if one of the most powerful skills we can give our children is the ability to think creatively when no one is there to entertain them? In this episode, we explore the important difference between creative thinking—the ability to imagine possibilities, solve problems, and generate ideas—and creative play, which is how children put those ideas into action. We discuss why boredom and independent
The Hardest Thing About Parenting Toddlers (And it's not what you think)
What if understanding toddler behavior—not controlling it—is the key to better communication, cooperation, and connection? In this special listener-inspired episode, I explore the biggest challenges facing parents, caregivers, and early childhood educators, including toddler tantrums, big feelings, emotional regulation, challenging behaviors, transitions, routines, and learning how to communicate
How to Reduce Your Mental Load during the Back to School Transition with Dilaini co-founder of Anna
What if you could hand off the endless mental checklist of family life and finally be more present with the people you love? In this episode, Diliani Kahawala unpacks the invisible mental load parents carry—from meal planning and school forms to schedule changes, reminders, and constantly anticipating what everyone needs next. We explore how Anna, an AI-powered personal assistant, can help parents
Why Your Toddler Says "Mama" 400 Times a Day (And What to Say Back)
Could that endless chorus of “Mama, mama, mama” actually be an important milestone in your toddler’s language development?In this episode, we explore why toddlers repeatedly say a parent or caregiver’s name before nearly every sentence as they practice the connection between attention, communication, and relationships. Rather than a behavior meant to frustrate you, this repetition is a development
The Fourth C of Collaborative Discipline - The Art of Compromise
How important is compromise with your child? In this final episode of our five part series on the four Cs of collaborative discipline, learn to transform the way that you connect with kids, problem solve with them and completely avoid power struggles. Download the free 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline PDF now! Looking for more 1:1 help? Book your complimentary connection call and we will
The Third C of Collaborative Discipline - Collaborate to Problem Solve
How important is collaborating with your kids?In this episode, I discuss the third C of Collaborative Discipline: Collaboration. I share that it's the togetherness is where you problem solve. Let's turn the daily tantrums into teachable moments that align with your core values as you raise whole kids in my Transforming the Toddler Years Course.The course is six modules and it dives d
The Second C of Collaborative Discipline - Intentional Communication
Curious about collaborative discipline?In this episode, I talk about the second C of collaborative discipline- communication! I share why it is a cornerstone of the collaborative discipline framework and share an example of it in action. Download the free 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline PDF now! Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video training, where I guide you through the pr
The First C of Collaborative Discipline - Connect Before You Expect
Want to know how to really connect with your child?In this episode, I talk about connection being the key first step in the collaborative discipline cycle. Spoiler alert: connection is not made with words!Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video training, where I guide you through the process of writing your personalized mission statement for raising and to teaching extraordinary human
The 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline
Join me as I discuss the four C's of collaborative discipline, starting with a positive definition of discipline. I then give an overview of the four intentional steps of collaborative discipline and share a story where I recently practiced this approach. Ready to Adopt the 4 C’s of Collaborative Discipline?Grab your free download and embrace connection before correction! Get it here.Check
Teaching Toddlers the Art of Compromise
What if the missing piece to raising cooperative kids isn't sharing, but learning how to compromise? In this episode, we explore why compromise is a skill that develops through emotional regulation, not simply expecting children to "work it out." You'll learn how helping children understand another person's perspective creates the foundation for genuine collaboration. We also
How to Teach Your Toddler Time Management
What if teaching your toddler to manage time isn't about timers at all, but about giving them the chance to make their own decisions? In this episode, I explain why toddlers are capable of developing time management skills much earlier than most people realize when we shift from directing to guiding. I share practical strategies for setting clear expectations, asking thoughtful questions, and
Raising Proud Kids Without Raising Prideful Children
Can the way we talk about pride shape a child's confidence, resilience, and lifelong motivation? In this episode, we explore the two very different meanings of pride and why helping children develop an internal sense of accomplishment is essential for healthy growth. You'll learn how creating small pockets of child-led time and using intentional language can nurture genuine confidence inst
Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 4 - Questions That Teach Perspective
What happens when your child has to navigate relationships with people they simply don't click with? In this episode, I take a deeper dive into relational intelligence, exploring how children can learn empathy, compassion, and perspective-taking when faced with challenging interpersonal dynamics. Drawing from my own experience supporting a child through a difficult teacher-student relationship
Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 3 - Relational Intelligence
What if your child's future success depends less on what they know and more on how they connect with others? In this episode of the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World series, I explore relational intelligence and why strong, authentic relationships are essential for learning, resilience, and personal growth. I explain how children develop their understanding of trust, respect, communication
Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 2 - Cultivating Their Character
What if the most important thing you can teach your child is who they are, not what they can do? In this episode, I continue the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World series by exploring how self-awareness and identity form the foundation of emotional intelligence and lifelong learning. I explain why children are born with unique temperaments, strengths, and character traits, and how parents can n
Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 1 - Emotional Intelligence
What if the key to raising resilient, capable kids isn't academic achievement, but emotional intelligence? In this first episode of the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World, I explore why emotional awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence and ultimately learning itself. Through relatable parenting examples and real-life observations, I explain the difference between reacting to e
AI in Education - What This Means For Your Family
Is the education system preparing our children for the future—or failing them before they even begin? In this episode, we explore the growing challenges facing families, from soaring childcare costs and declining school enrollment to the rapid transformation of education in the age of AI. Discover why character, self-management, and human-centered skills may be the most important tools children ne
A Vunerable Story: My Daughter, Her Wedding & Letting Go of Expectations
What does it feel like when the independent, world-ready child you raised begins building a life far beyond what you imagined? In this deeply personal episode, I share the emotional journey of supporting my daughter’s upcoming wedding in Japan while navigating the heartbreak of not being able to attend in person. I reflect on the powerful parenting lesson of separating our expectations from our c
Building Your Family Culture - Parenting On Purpose with Nancy and Steven Shapiro
What if the secret to raising resilient, emotionally healthy kids starts with intentionally creating your family’s culture? In this heartfelt conversation, educators Nancy and Steven Shapiro share how families can move from parenting by default to parenting by design through simple daily practices rooted in shared values and connection. Drawing from nearly a century of combined experience in educ
The Power of Complimenting Parents in Public
What if one heartfelt compliment could completely change another parent’s day? In this episode, I explore how quick we can be to notice parenting struggles in public while often overlooking the moments of patience, connection, and love happening all around us. The conversation highlights the importance of remembering that every family has a story we cannot see and that one difficult moment never d
Child Led Learning - What it Really Means
What if the most powerful learning moments happen not in classrooms, but during everyday adventures with your child? In this episode, I explore the concept of child-led learning and challenge the traditional belief that learning is simply the accumulation of knowledge. Instead, learning is reframed as a child’s natural process of exploring, connecting, experimenting, and making sense of the world
Raising Dreamers: Nurturing Creative Intelligence in the Age of AI with Bradley Scheel
What if the key to raising successful kids in an AI-driven world isn’t more academics, but stronger imagination? Bradley Scheel joins me to explore how creativity is a learnable skill that too often fades as children grow, especially after age five. He breaks down how brain development, cultural norms, and education systems unintentionally suppress imagination, and what parents can do to reverse t
When Toddlers Refuse To Say Thank You - Do This!
What if your toddler’s refusal to say “thank you” isn’t defiance but a clue about how their brain actually works? In this episode I unpack a real-life moment where prompting gratitude backfired, revealing why young children often can’t express thankfulness on command. You’ll learn how true gratitude is an internal feeling that toddlers are still developing, not a social script they can reliably pe
What to Say to Toddlers When They Run Away
What happens when your instincts scream danger, but the reality says your child is safe? In this episode, I share a heart-racing moment in a parking lot that became a powerful lesson in balancing fear with intentional language. You’ll hear how one caregiver managed her own emotional response while staying connected to her child’s experience. I demonstrate how reflective statements can turn chaotic
Accessing Mental Wellness as a Toddler Parent with M.J. Murray Vachon, LCSW
What if calming your child actually starts with calming yourself?MJ Murray Vanchon, creator of the Inner Challenge mental wellness program, joins me to explore practical ways parents can build inner calm for themselves and their kids. MJ shares simple, effective mindfulness tools like grounding and intentional breathing, as children rely on co-regulation and adults must regulate first. MJ is a lic
Why Questions are Stressful for Kids & What to Say Instead (Little Linguists Part 12)
What if a simple shift in how you speak could transform a child’s confidence and development? In this episode, I wrap up the Little Linguists series by introducing a powerful strategy: turning “are you” questions into “you are” statements to reduce stress and improve communication with young children. I demonstrate how everyday interactions can be reframed to support understanding and autonomy. Ca
What to Say When Kids Refuse - Expectation vs. Permission Based Statements
What if giving children more choice is actually the key to better behavior and deeper connection? In this episode I celebrate the Week of the Young Child, highlighting the importance of early learning and the communities that support it. Through real-life moments, I demonstrate how offering children permission, rather than control, can transform their willingness to participate and feel safe. I of
Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy with Rebecca Rowe, SLP
Rebecca Rowe joins me in this episode, as we explore what it truly means to provide neurodiversity-affirming speech therapy, with a focus on supporting families navigating an autism diagnosis. Rebecca shares how SLPs and OTs can guide and empower parents throughout the diagnostic process, while helping them find providers who align with neurodiversity-affirming values. We also break down key diffe
A Fresh Take on How To Encourage Sharing (Little Linguists Part 11)
What if the words you use with your child every day are quietly shaping who they believe they are?In this episode, I emphasize that the words adults use with young children shape their identity and sense of self, not just their behavior. I encourages parents and caregivers to pause, observe, and use intentional language that validates feelings while teaching empathy and co-regulation. Ultimately,
What Your Toddler Really Means When They Say NO! (Little Linguists Part 10)
Wonder why your toddler is always saying No!?In this episode I discuss why toddlers frequently use the word “no,” not as defiance, but as a limited-language way to express preferences, opinions, or discomfort. I encourage parents and caregivers to respond with curiosity and empathy instead of reacting negatively, as it’s an opportunity to understand what the child truly means. Longing for more com
How to Parent Better By Doing Less - The Power of Distress Tolerance with Joanna Hardis
How much distress tolerance do you and your children have?Joanna Hardis joins me in this episode to discuss distress tolerance, or the ability to handle emotional discomfort without letting it control behavior or relationships. In this exciting conversation we talk about the idea of “microdosing” discomfort—practicing small, manageable moments of challenge to gradually increase resilience. We also
Meltdown in Aisle Two! How to Talk to Toddlers in the Moment. (Little Linguists Part 9)
How do you talk to a toddler when they are in the middle of a meltdown?In this episode I explain how using intentional language helps caregivers connect with toddlers and guide their behavior more effectively. I emphasize the idea that connection is the foundation for cooperation, especially in challenging moments. Giving children space, empathy, and involvement leads to better outcomes and strong
Why Won't Toddlers Listen? The 4 Steps to Active Listening- Little Linguists Series Part 8
What if toddlers are actually listening—but simply choosing a response we didn’t expect?This episode redefines what it truly means for toddlers to “listen,” challenging the common belief that listening equals immediate compliance. I explain the four steps of active listening and highlight that a child may listen yet still choose not to follow a direction. I emphasize that adults can shift expectat
Children's Doodles: What They Tell You About Their Feelings & Identity with Dr. Josephine Deguara
Wonder what your child's doodles mean?Dr. Josephine Deguara joins me to discuss how children often use drawing as an early language to express thoughts and emotions before they can fully use words. We talk about how adults should avoid interpreting drawings themselves and instead ask open-ended questions to understand the child’s meaning. When children are given time, materials, and attentive
My Toddler Can't Follow Simple Directions. Is Something Wrong? Little Linguists Series Part 7
Ever feel like your toddler has "selective listening"? In this episode I share how toddlers may struggle to follow directions when their receptive language skills or emotional regulation are not fully developed. Children move through three brain states—physical safety, emotional safety, and learning, and they can only process instructions and learn when they feel both safe and loved. Be
A Girl and Her Dog: Why Toddlers Seem 'So Smart' Overnight - Little Linguists Series Part 6
What if your toddler understands far more than they can say—and they’ve been quietly learning from you since the day they were born?In this episode I explain how toddlers develop receptive language (what they understand) long before they can fully express themselves and have been absorbing words, tone, body language, and environmental cues since birth. I emphasize that communication is a two-way,
Breathe, Sleep, Thrive - The Healthy Connection Between Airway Health and Successful Kids with Dr. Lim
Ever wonder how breath and sleep affect our kids? Dr. Shereen Lim joins me to discuss the connection between breath and sleep. We explore how healthy breathing shapes your child's brain and behavior and also talk about tongue ties and healthy mouths. Dr. Shereen Lim is the Founder and Principal Dentist at Sparkle Dental, the author of Breathe, Sleep, Thrive and is one of Australia’s first dentis
The Antidote to Anxiety - Little Linguists Series Part 5
What's the antidote to anxiety?In this episode, I explain that energy—especially nonverbal communication—plays a powerful role in how adults connect with toddlers. Fear, anxiety, and worry about new situations or repeated challenging routines (like naptime) subtly shape our tone, body language, and facial expressions, which children quickly mirror. Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety by ac
My Public Apology to My Daughter - What I Said vs. What I Should Have Said
Have you ever said something to your child and regretted it?In this episode, I share a recent and very personal example of a situation where I said something hurtful to my daughter. I share what happened, what I said and what I should have said in that moment. This episode is a reminder that parenting is a continual process and the importance of repair work, no matter our children's age. Want
Raising Futurepreneurs: Passionate, Purposeful, and Successful Kids with Krystal Popov
Want to raise a successful entrepreneur?This week Krystal Popov, founder of Futurepreneur joins me this week to talk about raising passionate, purposeful, and successful kids.Krystal is the owner of Futurepreneur and a passionate advocate for empowering kids and teens to become entrepreneurs. A mother of three, she believes young people have immense potential to start businesses but often lack the
Words That Create Connection, Collaboration, and Cooperation - Little Linguists Series Part 4
Did you know how you communicate literally helps design a child’s developing brain and sense of self?In this episode I expand on the idea that words are only a small part of communication and how intentional language shapes connection, especially with young children. I outline five connection outcomes for healthy communication—connection, identity-building, emotional regulation, brain engagement,
How to Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say - Little Linguists Series Part 3
Did you know that only 7% of communication is verbal?In this episode I explore the idea that speech is only 7% of communication, while 93% comes from nonverbal cues like tone, facial expressions, body language, and energy. I share how infants, toddlers, and even adults communicate meaningfully long before or beyond words, and how children are especially sensitive to these signals. Want to learn mo
Raising Good Writers with Pediatric Occupational Therapist Helene Lieberman
Want to raise a good writer?Helene Lieberman from BlackBack Writing joins me this week to discuss how to raise good writers. We discuss early habits, creating good habits and how to get little hands ready to write. Helene is a MS, OTR/L and has been a pediatric Occupational Therapist for 36 years. She has participated in researching the effect of sensory integration treatment in preschool and the
Dysregulated Kids Can't Learn (Here's What To Do) Little Linguists Series Part 2
Why dysregulated kids can't learnJoin me in part 2 of the Little Linguists Series where I discuss that meaningful learning begins with connection, not curriculum. I explain why children are not born with the ability to regulate their emotions and why dysregulated children are simply not available to learn. The episode explores how children learn regulation through modeled behavior, responsive
Toddler Caregivers - You Have One Job (And It's Not What You Think) Little Linguists Series Part 1
What happens when strong relationships become the foundation for emotional regulation, language growth, and positive behavior?This episode introduces Chapter One of Talk to Them Early and Often, exploring the science behind infant and toddler language development. It emphasizes that all caregivers are teachers and play a powerful role in shaping early communication through emotionally available re
Developmental Delays or Autism - How to Spot Red Flags with Dr. Theresa Lyons
Wondering how to tell the difference between typical toddler behaviors and early developmental red flags?In this guest episode, I’m joined by Dr. Theresa Lyons for an insightful and reassuring conversation about early childhood development. Together, we explore common toddler behaviors that often worry parents—and how to recognize when those behaviors are a normal part of development versus when t
3 Kids Under Two - And 1 On The Way! This Story & More in the Book's Introduction
What if every parent, caregiver, and teacher understood that language is the foundation of emotional regulation and learning before age five?In this episode, I introduce my new book by sharing the deeply personal story that shaped my work in early childhood education, including my journey into home-based childcare and the loss of my first child. I explain why the birth-to-five years are critical,
The Story Behind The Book (And the Courage it Takes to Say Yes Before You're Ready)
What happens when you say yes before you’re ready? This episode explores the journey behind my upcoming book, Talk to Them Early and Often, the doubts along the way, and the courage it takes to begin before you feel fully prepared.Be the First to Know When Talk to Them Early and Often is Available For Preorder. Get on the list here! January 6, 2026Episode 3013 Years In And We
3 Years In And We're Just Getting Started! Big Reveal for 2026
What happens when we look back at three years of growth and step boldly into a brand-new chapter?In this special New Year episode, I pause to reflect on the last three years—lessons learned, growth, and moments that shaped our journey. I also look ahead to what’s coming next, including the exciting release of a new book created especially for toddler parents, caregivers, and educators. Join me as
New Approach to Managing Meltdowns for the New Year
Meltdowns and tantrums are inevitable with toddlers. How you handle them is up to you. In this episode, I explore a new, conscious approach to handling toddler meltdowns that shifts away from control and punishment and toward collaboration, connection, and mindset.Ready to master meltdowns? Download my free 5 Mindful Mantras for Conscious Parents Managing Toddler Meltdowns here!December 30, 2025Ep
Gift Giving Season - Stop Asking, "What Did You Get?". Ask This Instead!
Worried your child is more focused on what they'll get this holiday season?In this episode, I dive into the idea of instead of saying, "what do you want?", you say, "what would you like to give?". I talk about raising thoughtful gift gives and trying to balance out the receiving and the giving. Ready to Adopt the 4 C’s of Collaborative Discipline?Grab your free downlo
How to Travel with Kids: 3 Ways to Make it Easier
Nervous about travelling with kids this holiday season?In this special replay episode I discuss the challenges of traveling with kids during the holiday season. I explain the cognitive process that children go through and how travel tests their executive functioning skills. I also emphasize the importance of seeing it through your child's perspective and making it about the journey, not the de
Teaching Toddlers How to Give and Receive
Want to raise a child that is truly grateful and generous?In this episode, I explore how giving and receiving are the two sides of the coin of gratitude and thankfulness. I share a recent example of teaching kids to give and how the lesson does not settle in our kids' souls unless we tap into their feelings and the emotions around it. Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video traini
The 4 A's of Gratitude - Teaching Toddlers How to Show Thankfulness
How can we inspire true gratitude to come from within our toddlers?Join me in this episode as I talk all about inspiring gratitude from our children, even in the middle of struggle. I share ways to use language, motivation and inspiration to use with your kids. Teachers and ECE Professionals- what type of professional development would you benefit most from?I do early childhood education
Teaching Toddlers the Difference Between Needs vs. Wants
It's that time of year when buying can be excessive and kids want everything! Join me in this episode as I discuss the valuable lesson of teaching our children the difference between a need and a want. I share examples and give some simple tips on how to practice teaching this skill! Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video training, where I guide you through the process of writing
The Power of Risky Play (Why Your Child Needs It) with Dr. Joanna Spotts
Worried about your child's risky play?Dr. Joanna Spotts joins me in this conversation to talk about the benefits of risky play and why it is essential for development. We also discuss ways to safely provide opportunities for risky play.Joanna Spotts, EdD has been an educator for over 20 years. Dr. Joanna discovered her passion for risky play during her doctoral journey and seeks to use her voi
What Are Toddler's Grateful For? A Thanksgiving Episode
How can we help little ones feel genuine gratitude? In this Thanksgiving episode, I explore how to nurture the inner core of a child so they can receive with grace, kindness, and confidence. This episode shows parents how to model thankfulness and guide little ones toward a lifelong habit of heartfelt appreciation.Parenting is hard – support shouldn’t be. Get my weekly dose of encouragement &
Being a Better Working Parent with Hunter-Clarke Fields
Feeling like you're struggling as a working parent?In this special episode, I share my guest interview on the Mindful Mama Mentor podcast with Hunter Clarke-Fields. We discuss mindfulness, parenting as leadership, and the impact of language on a child's identity. I also share practical strategies for emotional awareness, connection, screen time management, and reframing parental guilt.Read
It Feels Like My Toddler is Judging Me! What Do I Say?
Ever feel like your child is judging you?In this episode I share a story of a family interaction I recently witnessed and break it down. I also share a simple trick you can use when you feel like your child says something that triggers you. Please take a minute to rate and review the show, suggest a topic, and leave a comment so we can get the word out to as many conscious parents as possible.Nove
How Music Builds Your Child's Brain for a Lifetime of Success with Esther Bertram from MiniMaestros
Curious about the importance of music for your child?In this episode, Esther Bertram joins me to discuss Mini Maestros' mission of nurturing young minds through musical learning. We talk all about how music enriches your child's brain, setting them up for a lifetime of success. Esther Bertram has served as Chief Marketing Officer at Mini Maestros for over 10 years. As a professional singer
How Will My Child Handle "NO" From Others If I Never Say It?
What happens when kids go into the real world outside our home and eventually face people who say no directly to their faces?In this episode I answer a very important question bout preparing our kids for situations and hardships they encounter in the real world, where they face different kinds of people and circumstances. Let's turn the daily tantrums into teachable moments that align with yo
Why Won't My Child Talk to Others? What is Selective Mutism with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum
What is selective mutism?Dr Elisa Shipon-Blum joins me in this episode to talk about communication, mutism and selective more! Dr Elisa Shipon-Blum, DO is the President and Director of the Selective Mutism Anxiety and Related Disorders Treatment Center (SMart Center) and is a board certified physician who specializes in Selective Mutism.Learn more about Dr Shipon-Blums work on her podcast, Unspoke
The Fourth C of Collaborative Discipline - The Art of Compromise
How important is compromise with your child? In this final episode of our five part series on the four Cs of collaborative discipline, learn to transform the way that you connect with kids, problem solve with them and completely avoid power struggles. Download the free 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline PDF now! Looking for more 1:1 help? Book your complimentary connection call and we will expl
The Third C of Collaborative Discipline - Collaborate to Problem Solve
How important is collaborating with your kids?In this episode, I discuss the third C of Collaborative Discipline: Collaboration. I share that it's the togetherness is where you problem solve. Let's turn the daily tantrums into teachable moments that align with your core values as you raise whole kids in my Transforming the Toddler Years Course.The course is six modules and it dives dee
Why Your Toddlers Behavior Isn't Changing with Tia Slightham
Is your toddler not cooperating?Tia Slightham joins me to talk about understanding the WHY behind your child’s behavior, to set you and your family up for success. We discuss shifting your parenting to shift your child’s behavior and how “forcing” kids to listen or cooperate won’t work!Tia is the founder of Tia Slightham- Parenting Solutions and The Parenting With Purpose Method, where she works w
The Second C of Collaborative Discipline - Intentional Communication
Curious about collaborative discipline?In this episode, I talk about the second C of collaborative discipline- communication! I share why it is a cornerstone of the collaborative discipline framework and share an example of it in action. Download the free 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline PDF now! Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video training, where I guide you through the proc
Your Toddler's Brain is a Parking Lot - Learn to Build Skills with Gretchen Camp
What if your child’s most powerful teacher has been you all along?In this eye-opening episode, I welcome back early childhood expert Gretchen Camp for a deep dive into one of the most fascinating — and misunderstood — topics in parenting: the toddler brain. We unpack how a child’s brain develops between ages 0–5, why those years matter more than any ABCs or 123s ever could, and how parents can bec
The First C of Collaborative Discipline - Connect Before You Expect
Want to know how to really connect with your child?In this episode, I talk about connection being the key first step in the collaborative discipline cycle. Spoiler alert: connection is not made with words!Ready to take the next step?Check out my short video training, where I guide you through the process of writing your personalized mission statement for raising and to teaching extraordinary human
Why Parenting Culture is Missing the Mark with Gretchen Camp
Are modern parenting styles helping us—or holding us back?Gretchen Camp joins me in this episode to explore what it truly means to raise and teach toddlers in today’s parenting culture. We reflect on how teaching and parenting overlap, how intuition is being drowned out by parenting “labels,” and why connection—not curriculum—is the foundation of learning for young children.Gretchen is a toddler b
The 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline
Join me as I discuss the four C's of collaborative discipline, starting with a positive definition of discipline. I then give an overview of the four intentional steps of collaborative discipline and share a story where I recently practiced this approach. Ready to Adopt the 4 C’s of Collaborative Discipline?Grab your free download and embrace connection before correction! Get it here.October 7
Balancing Maternal Hormones with Vanda Aubrey
Struggling with fatigue, mood swings, or feeling “off” after motherhood? In this episode, Vanda Aubrey joins me to discuss balancing maternal hormones and explore how functional medicine differs from traditional approaches. Learn practical ways to restore balance, reclaim your energy, and finally feel like yourself again.Vanda is a Functional Medicine Nurse and Board-Certified Nurse Coach speciali
How to Help Toddlers Navigate Unexpected Transitions
Does your toddler fall apart when there is a sudden change of plans?In this episode, I explore simple, conscious parenting strategies to help little ones feel safe, supported, and more adaptable during transitions and share mindful ways to guide your child through sudden changes with calm, connection, and confidence.Parenting is hard – support shouldn’t be. Get my weekly dose of encouragement &
How to Teach Toddlers to Self-Regulate with Lisa Danahy
Want to teach your littles self-regulation?Lisa Danahy joins me in this episode to discuss connecting on an energetic level as a great way to start building more positive and effective emotional regulation and communication, as we peel away authority and expectations and become co-creators in our children’s spaces. We also discuss emotions as energy in motion and co-regulation through mindful move
The Toxic Effects of Technology on Toddlers, Tweens, and Teens
Is tech helping or hurting your kids? In this episode, I unpack the toxic effects of screen time on toddlers, tweens, and teens. From AAP screen-time guidelines to real-life stories, we explore how early habits shape focus, social skills, and even addiction. Walk away with practical steps to set boundaries, foster connection, and rethink your family’s relationship with technology.Teachers and ECE
