Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

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

In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn breaks down why young children wake up at night—and what actually helps. She shares a personal parenting misstep that changed how she thinks about sleep, then explains the most common reasons night wakings happen, including sleep associations, fears, and separation anxiety. Dr. Cathryn also covers when medical issues—like sleep apnea, restless legs, or eczema—may be part of the picture. You’ll learn how much sleep toddlers truly need and walk away with practical, realistic steps to improve nighttime sleep—without pressure or blame. RESOURCES: Order my new book ⁠Toddlers Made Easy ⁠ Join the ⁠Big-Hearted School of Parenting⁠ Follow me on ⁠Instagram⁠ Sponsor ⁠Acorns Early⁠

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: Order my new book ⁠Toddlers Made Easy ⁠ Join the ⁠Big-Hearted School of Parenting⁠ Follow me on ⁠Instagram⁠ Sponsor ⁠Acorns Early⁠

Food battles usually are not about food. They are about your child’s brain doing its job: protecting them from anything that feels unfamiliar. In this episode, I share Mikey’s story (a spirited 4-year-old who refused every vegetable), why pressure and “just one bite” backfired, and what is actually normal toddler eating—tiny appetites, changing preferences, and a strong need for control. You will learn three simple, big-hearted strategies that prevent picky habits: Let your child decide how much to eat Let your child choose what to eat from what is served Build a calm, positive mealtime environment (connection over consumption) Plus: bonus tips like screen-free meals, predictable snacks, no grazing, and the “No Thank You Bowl” that lowers pressure fast. Takeaway: When kids feel pressured, intake goes down. Resources: Order my new book Toddlers Made Easy Join The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram Get Toddlers Made Easy course Sponsor: Acorns Early

Dr. Cathryn talks about why toddler fears are so common — and how to support your little one without minimizing their feelings or rushing them through fear. You’ll learn simple, big-hearted ways to help your child feel seen, safe, and supported, while also building the confidence they need to move through scary moments at their own pace. We cover: Why fears show up in toddlerhood How to respond when fears feel inconvenient or confusing What to say (and what to skip) How naming and narrating emotions help kids process big feelings Ways to empower your child without pushing them RESOURCES: Help! My Child Will Only Poop In A Diaper Toddlers Made Easy course Follow me on Insta Get Dr. Cathryn's emails packed with big-hearted tools, developmentally-strategies, and practical tools straight to your Inbox. Grab Dr. Cathryn's bestselling book, Toddlers Made Easy Sponsors: Acorns Early