Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Why Won't My Child Go To Sleep Without Me? Part 2 Jan 17, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, Dr. Cathryn delves into the 'Easy Does It' method, a big-hearted approach to helping your toddler fall asleep independently. Building on the emotional support strategies from Part 1, we discuss practical steps to ease bedtime struggles and how to gradually reduce your involvement. Listen in for practical tips and insights for creating a supportive and peaceful bedtime routine. 🌟

Links and Resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW 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!

FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Why Won't My Child Go To Sleep Without Me? Part 1 Jan 10, 2024

Show notes

Bedtime is tough! Dr. Cathryn talks parents through one of the most common and challenging aspects of parenting – bedtime struggles. Are you lying next to your child for hours just to get them to sleep or facing a nightly battle of wills? Dr. Cathryn explores why toddlers resist bedtime, common sleep issues, and shares empathetic, effective strategies to help your child (and you!) get a better night's rest.

Links and Resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW 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!

FREE: Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

REVISIT: My Favorite Way to Encourage Good Toddler Behavior Jan 03, 2024

Show notes

Dr. Cathryn shares one of her favorite strategies for dealing with unwanted toddler behaviors. This tactic is a healthy alternative to yelling, threats, time-outs, and warnings. Listen for some great tips on dealing with unwanted behaviors when raising your toddler.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Q&A Special: Tackling Toddler Myths, Sibling Prep, Behavior Bumps, and Potty Puzzles Dec 27, 2023

Show notes

Question 1: Dealing with False Accusations

- A parent shares concern about their 2.5-year-old falsely claiming to be hit by them.

Answer: Understand that toddlers often blur fantasy and reality. It's their way of expressing discomfort with parental disapproval. Focus on the underlying emotions rather than the details, and reassure them with love and understanding.

Question 2: Preparing for a New Sibling

- A parent asks for advice on their toddler who doesn’t want a new sibling.

Answer: Early in the pregnancy, it's okay to wait before discussing the new sibling. When the time comes, involve your toddler in preparations. Acknowledge their mixed feelings about growing up and becoming a big sister while allowing them to still feel like your baby.

Question 3: Handling Defiance and Aggression

- Concerns about a nearly 3-year-old showing defiance and occasional aggression.

Answer: This behavior is a part of testing limits. Use the EASY approach: Evaluate your calmness, Acknowledge feelings, Set boundaries, and offer Yes alternatives. Focus on positive redirection.

Question 4: Potty Training Challenges

- A parent struggles with their 3.5-year-old's reluctance to start potty training.

Answer: Pause the potty training discussion for a while. Model toilet use, focus on pre-potty skills, and choose a start date for training. Make the bathroom environment fun and inviting. Use a no-pressure approach and understand the child's perspective.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Raising Kids With A Healthy Body Image Dec 20, 2023

Show notes

Body Positivity and Image in Young Children

Summary:

- Discussing the importance of fostering a positive body image from a young age.

- Exploring how children as young as three begin forming opinions about body shapes.

- Strategies for promoting a healthy body image in toddlers and young children.

Key Points:

1. Early Impressions: Children start to form opinions about ideal body shapes at a surprisingly young age.

2. Parental Influence: How parents talk about their own and others' bodies can significantly impact a child's body image.

3. Empowering Language: Use positive affirmations about health and abilities instead of focusing on weight or appearance.

4. Celebrating Diversity: Encourage acceptance of different body types and appearances.

5. Function over Form: Emphasize physical capabilities rather than appearance.

6. Understanding Concerns: Engage in conversations when children express body image concerns.

7. Addressing Name-Calling: Teach respect for others' physical differences.

8. Leading by Example: Model body positivity and healthy habits in daily life.

9. Healthy Eating Habits: Involve children in food choices and meal preparation.

10. Positive Potty Training: Use techniques that encourage a child to listen to their body.

Practical Tips:

- Avoid making appearance-based comments.

- Discuss body comments your child makes, opening a dialogue.

- Be photographed with your child, showing you're present in their life.

- Discuss exercise as a means to gain strength, not just lose weight.

- Replace negative comments about body size with positive health-focused messages.

Closing Thoughts:

- Body image issues can start early; awareness is key.

- The way we discuss bodies around children shapes their perceptions.

- Parenting is challenging; our courses offer valuable insights (see show notes for details).

Check out our courses for more support in navigating these formative years.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Toddlers and Chores: Yes or No? Dec 13, 2023

Show notes

Do you dream of having a child who naturally pitches in around the house without being asked? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explores the impactful role of chores in a toddler's development and how these early experiences can shape such proactive behavior.

Chores are more than just tasks; they're opportunities for toddlers to build self-esteem, feel valued, and develop a sense of belonging. We dive into how age-appropriate chores play a crucial role in nurturing emotional and social growth in young children.

We discuss the inherent eagerness of toddlers to help and how parents can harness this to teach valuable lessons about teamwork and responsibility. From simple activities like tidying up toys to setting the table, these tasks are stepping stones in a child's journey toward independence and empathy. Join us as we provide insights and strategies for parents to encourage their toddlers' involvement in household chores, setting the stage for them to become responsible, initiative-taking individuals in the future.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

When Toddlers Grab Toys: Navigating Sharing Struggles Dec 06, 2023

Show notes

When Toddlers Grab Toys

- Discover why toddlers struggle with sharing and how it's tied to their developmental stage.

- Learn about the 'sportscasting' technique and how it can guide children to resolve conflicts and develop empathy.

- Understand the benefits of turn-taking and how it can stretch a child's attention span and aid in learning.

- Get tips on how to support your child through the turn-taking process and why stepping back sometimes can be beneficial.

Resources:

- Check out our courses for in-depth guidance on navigating toddler behaviors and other parenting challenges.

Connect:

- Share your stories or questions at drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com.

Remember, you're already doing great as a big-hearted parent. Join us for more insights and let's continue growing together.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Prevent Picky Eating Nov 29, 2023

Show notes

Navigating picky eating in toddlers is a common challenge rooted in their developmental journey toward food independence and exploration of tastes.

To ease this phase, it's crucial to avoid pressuring a toddler to eat and instead adopt a relaxed approach. Create a positive mealtime atmosphere by emphasizing enjoyable family gatherings, focusing on the meal experience over food, and keeping mealtimes technology-free for bonding. Steer clear of pressure-inducing phrases and avoid labeling foods as 'good' or 'bad.'

Encouraging children to make some food choices can fulfill their need for independence, and remember that your role is to decide what, where, and when they eat while a child determines how much they eat. Involving kids in meal planning, cooking, and grocery shopping can engage them with food.

Patience is key, as changes in eating habits take time. If picky eating is accompanied by significant behavioral challenges, consulting a doctor is advisable.

Actionable takeaways:

- Avoid pressuring kids to eat.

- Create a positive mealtime atmosphere.

- Refrain from using pressure-inducing phrases.

- Encourage children to make food choices.

- Involve kids in meal planning and cooking.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.

Does Sugar Really Make Kids Hyper? Nov 24, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we explored the common belief that sugar causes hyperactivity in children. We delved into the origins of this myth, tracing it back to Dr. Ben Feingold's 1975 book "Why Your Child Is Hyperactive." The episode unpacked the historical context of the 1970s, when concerns over ADHD medications like Ritalin were rising, making the idea of dietary control over hyperactivity attractive to parents.

Key points covered include:

Early Studies:

Initial research suggests a link between sugar intake, insulin production, adrenaline boost, and hyperactivity.

Pivotal 1994 Study:

A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found no connection between sugar consumption and changes in children's behavior or cognitive functions.

Continued Belief in the Myth:

Despite the scientific evidence, the persistence of the sugar-high myth.

Importance of a Balanced Diet:

Emphasizing the benefits of limiting sugar intake for overall health, beyond behavior management.

DM us on Instagram with your opinions or experiences related to this topic.

Stay tuned for more parenting insights and discussions.

Remember, while sugar might not be the culprit behind hyperactivity, it's still crucial to maintain a balanced diet for your child's overall health and well-being.

Links and resources:

Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram: @healthiest_baby

Check out our bestselling online course: Toddlers Made Easy Course

Our NEW Potty Training Made Easy course is here!

Get the Dynamic Duo: Toddler Tamining + Potty Training courses and save $20

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!

Watch our FREE Tame Tantrums workshop and stay calmer with tricky toddler moments.

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.

RESOURCES
Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Independently mini-class