Explore every episode of the podcast Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn

Bringing home a new baby can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming for your older child. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares simple, practical ways to help your toddler feel secure, included, and deeply loved as your family grows. You'll learn how to prepare your child before the baby arrives, ease jealousy, strengthen your bond through everyday connection, and respond to big feelings with confidence.

If you're looking for more support, check out the Toddlers Made Easy course for step-by-step guidance on handling tantrums, bedtime, sibling rivalry, and more. You'll find the link in the show notes.

Resources:

Join my Toddlers Made Easy online course.

Follow me on Instagram

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Helping your child fall asleep without you doesn't have to mean tears, guilt, or leaving them to figure it out alone.

In this episode, I share why sleeping in your child's room often starts as a temporary solution but quietly becomes the new normal. You'll learn why these bedtime patterns become so hard to change, why waiting rarely solves the problem, and how small, gentle changes can help your child build independent sleep skills while protecting your connection.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why "just for tonight" often turns into months or years.

• How sleep habits become reinforced over time.

• One simple change you can make tonight to start moving toward independent sleep.

If you'd like a step-by-step plan, my 18-minute workshop, Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You, walks you through two gentle, connected approaches to help your child learn this important skill without turning bedtime into a battle.

Resources:

• Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You workshop

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your toddler waking up at 2 AM (again)? Instead of repeating “Go back to bed,” try this big-hearted, research-backed approach that helps your child feel safe and stay in bed — without tears or power struggles.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ Why toddlers wake at night

✅ A comforting strategy that builds self-soothing skills

✅ How to introduce a “Midnight Helper” stuffed animal

✅ What to say (and not say) during wake-ups

It’s simple. It’s powerful. And you can start tonight.

✨ Want more big-hearted sleep tools? Check out the masterclass:

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You

FREE Guide: How To End 2AM Wake-Ups

Until next time — stay big-hearted 💛

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Biting is one of the behaviors that worries parents most. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why little kids bite, why "biting back" isn't the answer, and what to do instead.

You'll learn:

• Why toddlers and young children bite

• What biting is really telling you about your child

• Why punishment often misses the root cause

• Three simple steps to handle biting in the moment

• Five ways to prevent biting before it happens

• How to teach the skills that make biting unnecessary

If your child has bitten a sibling, friend, or classmate, this episode will help you respond with confidence while maintaining clear boundaries without chipping away at your child's self-esteem. That’s exactly what you’ll find inside my course Toddlers Made Easy. Tap here to learn more

Order my book, Toddlers Made Easy, or listen to the audiobook today.

Like what you hear? Be sure to subscribe and leave a 5-star review. It helps other parents find the show.

Want one practical parenting tip each week? Join my free newsletter.

Looking for help with potty training? Check out Potty Training Made Easy.

Follow me on Instagram for daily big-hearted parenting tips and tools.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Potty training doesn't have to involve battles, pressure, or regret. In this episode, Today, I'm sharing the Big-Hearted Approach to Potty Training, a method that helps children build body awareness, confidence, and independence without sacrificing their dignity.

Learn why pressure often backfires and what to do instead.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why pushing harder often creates more resistance

• How to build body awareness instead of relying on reminders

• Why ownership helps children become independent potty users

• The hidden link between potty-training pressure and constipation

• How encouragement builds confidence and cooperation

Ready for a calmer and kinder approach? Join my free workshop, Potty Without Pushback:

You'll walk away with a plan on how to ditch diapers without chipping away at your child's self-esteem.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If your toddler is creeping into your room at 1am, 3am — or both — this episode is for you. Dr. Cathryn shares a simple, no-cry strategy that helped Katie sleep through the night in just one week, and gave Cecil's family a way into bedtime that finally felt collaborative instead of combative.

• Middle-of-the-night wake-ups are biologically normal — the goal isn't to stop your child from waking, it's to help them comfortably drift back to sleep without coming to find you.
• The Big-Hearted Ask works by turning your child from the scared one into the rescuer — giving them a stuffed animal that "needs their help" at night taps into their natural empathy and gives them a job to do at 2am.
• Four steps to set it up: introduce the animal during the day (not at bedtime), make tucking it in part of the wind-down routine, practice comforting it before lights out, and leave a simple reminder as you walk out the door.

Whether your child is sneaking into your bed or battling bedtime from the very start, this strategy meets them where they are — and it's simpler than anything you've probably tried.

RESOURCES

How To Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You (the smarter, kinder way)

My Big-Hearted approach is a calm, step-by-step way to help your child fall asleep independently—without cry-it-out.

Potty Without Pushback FREE workshop

Learn a proven approach to ditch diapers that doesn’t chip away at a child’s dignity.

The Potty Training Made Easy Program

Finally ditch diapers without battles, pressure, or moments you wish you could take back.

A pediatrician-designed approach trusted by 1M+ families to potty train with confidence instead of conflict.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why do little kids melt down over things that seem so small? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares one mindset shift that can completely change the way you respond to tantrums, resistance, aggression, and emotional outbursts. When you stop seeing your child as “the problem” and start seeing the skills they’re still developing, parenting becomes calmer, clearer, and far more connected. This episode will help you hold boundaries without chipping away at your child’s confidence or dignity.

• Why toddlers can understand a rule and still completely fall apart trying to follow it

• How interpreting behavior differently helps you stay calmer during hard moments

• Why support, co-regulation, and connection often work better than punishment

RESOURCES

The Potty Without Pushback workshop

Finally, A Kinder, Calmer Way To Ditch Diapers For Good

YOU'LL WALK AWAY KNOWING HOW TO:

• Potty train without tears, tantrums or tension
• Avoid potty resistance altogether
• Handle accidents or setbacks calmly 
• Teach your child, "I'm the boss of my body!"

Save Your FREE Seat Here

*

*

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares the biggest mistake parents make during tantrums and why trying to reason, explain, or “fix” the meltdown too quickly often makes things worse. Through a personal story from her years as a pediatrician and mom, she explains what’s really happening inside a child’s brain during a tantrum and how a calmer, big-hearted response helps children build emotional regulation over time, without chipping away at their dignity or self-esteem.

• Why tantrums often get bigger when parents talk too much during the peak of the meltdown

• What children actually need when the emotional part of the brain takes over

• How to stay calm, hold boundaries, and help your child through overwhelming feelings without becoming permissive

Planning on potty training soon? Dr. Cathryn also shares details about her free Potty Without Pushback workshop, where you’ll learn a calmer, big-hearted approach to potty training that encourages cooperation and better behavior without chipping away at your child’s self-esteem or dignity.

RESOUCES

The Potty Without Pushback workshop

Finally, A Kinder, Calmer Way To Ditch Diapers For Good

YOU'LL WALK AWAY KNOWING HOW TO:

• Potty train without tears, tantrums or tension
• Avoid potty resistance altogether
• Handle accidents or setbacks calmly 
• Teach your child, "I'm the boss of my body!"

SAVE YOUR FREE SEAT HERE

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your little one is missing you. Maybe it's daycare drop-off. Maybe it's 2 am. Maybe it's a sleepover at Nana's with a lot of very loud feelings.

This episode is about the simple things that make separation easier — not just in the hard moments, but all the time.

Dr. Cathryn shares the 10-second ritual she uses with her own granddaughter, plus four practical tools to help little kids carry the feeling of connection with them wherever they go.

You'll learn:

• A simple breath-and-kiss ritual that calms the nervous system fast
• Why family photos at eye level in the bedroom do more than you'd think
• The recordable button that lets your child hear your voice whenever they need it
• Why these tools only work if you're not saving them for emergencies

The goal isn't just getting through the hard moment. It's building a belief your child carries with them: I am loved. I am connected. The bond never breaks.

📖 Mentioned in this episode: The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

🚀 Potty training is one of the moments connection matters most. My Potty Training Made Easy program gets you from diapers to dry in 30 days — with no pressure, no shame, and no power struggles. Because how your little one feels during potty training matters just as much as whether they get there. Tap Here

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your little kid pees on the potty just fine — but when it comes to poop? Diaper only, thank you very much.

You haven't done anything wrong. This is one of the most common potty-training hiccups, affecting 20–25% of little kids.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down exactly why it happens and what actually helps.

You'll learn:

• The real reason most kids resist (hint: it's fear, not stubbornness)
• What to say — and what not to say
• Simple ways to make the potty feel safer and less overwhelming
• How to move toward the potty in tiny, low-pressure steps
• Why stool softness matters more than most parents realize

This isn't about saying enough is enough. It's about understanding what's driving the resistance — and meeting your child there.

🎓 Ready to go deeper? Mini-course: Help! My Child Will Only Poop in a Diaper →

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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:

I’m running a short class for exhausted parents who want more sleep (without cry-it-out). Want the details? TAP HERE

Order my book ⁠⁠Toddlers Made Easy ⁠⁠

Follow me on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 5:1 rule is one of the most practical tools a parent can have — and it's simpler than you think.

Originally researched by psychologist John Gottman in marriages, the principle maps directly onto parenting: for every correction, aim for five positive interactions first. Not a tally. Just an intention to tip the balance toward warmth.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why your relationship with your child works like a bank account
• How our negativity bias works against us as parents — and how to counteract it
• What a positive interaction actually looks like (hint: it's not empty praise)
• How the way you talk to your child becomes their inner voice

The goal isn't perfection. It's just tipping the balance.

🎙️ Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a parent who needs to hear it.

👉 Join me live April 30th for Potty Without Pushback — my free workshop on how to go from diapers to dry without the power struggles, overwhelm, or feeling like you're doing it wrong.

Save your spot here

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you stuck in the potty training start-stop loop? You try, it falls apart, you stop — and now you're dreading starting again. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why potty battles happen, why your first attempt wasn't a failure, and how one simple shift can change everything.

In this episode:

• Why kids push back against potty training (it's not stubbornness)
• The real reason accidents happen more than you think
• Kyle's story — and the one change that made all the difference
• How to reintroduce the potty without pressure or battles
• The simple phrase that puts your child back in control

Ready to restart or start for the first time? Join Dr. Cathryn's free workshop, Potty Without Pushback — April 30th at 10am EST.

RESOURCES

Potty Without Pushback Workshop: TAP HERE TO SAVE YOUR SEAT APRIL 30th, 10 AM EST

YOU'LL WALK AWAY KNOWING:

• A kinder, quicker way to ditch diapers for good
• How to potty train without the power struggles 
• Why your child needs to know "I'm the boss of my body"
• The big-hearted way to promote independence, body awareness, and boost your child's confidence. 
• What to do when things go sideways — accidents, setbacks, refusals

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Being a toddler is tough—and parenting one can feel just as hard.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down why toddlers struggle with impulse control, what’s really behind their behavior, and how to respond in ways that actually work.

You’ll learn how to guide—not punish—using simple, developmentally-smart strategies that reduce chaos and build cooperation.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why toddler impulsivity is normal (not “bad behavior”)
• How to prevent challenges before they start
• Why supervision beats discipline every time
• Simple ways to handle transitions and big emotions
• How noticing the good changes behavior fast

👩‍⚕️ Join me on Instagram

🧡 Toddlers Made Easy Course – Get expert guidance on handling tantrums, power struggles, and discipline.

🚽 Potty Training Made Easy – A stress-free approach to potty training.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Every parent hits a breaking point. Here's how to stop before you get there.

In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn shares three simple steps to stay calm — even when your toddler is pushing every button you have.

What You'll Learn:

✔ Why toddlers don't listen (and how to work with their development, not against it)

✔ The real reason parents snap — and it's not just about your toddler's behavior

✔ 3 practical steps to keep your cool when you feel triggered

✔ A bonus tip that makes staying calm even easier

Join me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/

ONE thing you can do right away to get your kids to listen tap here

Toddlers Made Easy, our bestselling course

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Potty pushback doesn't mean you're doing it wrong — it means your toddler is doing exactly what toddlers do. In this episode, we dig into why resistance happens and what actually works to move through it.

• Potty resistance is developmentally normal. Toddlers are hardwired to seek control, and the bathroom is one of the few places they have it — once you understand that, the pushback stops feeling personal.
• More pressure almost always makes things worse. The stories of Chelsea and Eli show how escalating effort led to zero progress — and how easing up was the real turning point.
• Four strategies that actually work: prompt less (every 2 hours max), offer two real choices, lead with play and silliness, and build a routine by pairing potty time with something your child already loves.

Whether you're in the thick of training or just getting started, these research-backed, kid-forward tools will help you stay out of the power struggle — and on your toddler's team.

Resources:

Potty Training Made Easy

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Is your toddler waking multiple times a night and ending up in your bed? You're not alone — and more importantly, it's fixable.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down the real reason most toddlers wake at night (hint: it's not to drive you crazy), and what you can do to help them sleep through — gently and without the tears.

You'll learn:

• The sleep cycle science that explains why toddlers wake — and why how they fall asleep matters so much
• The "pillow and blanket" analogy that finally makes it click
• 3 common mistakes that make night wakings worse
• Why sleep deprivation is more serious than most parents realize
• Other causes of night wakings — from new siblings to medical issues worth discussing with your pediatrician

Mentioned in this episode:

• Why Won't My Child Go to Sleep Without Me? Part 1
• Why Won't My Child Go to Sleep Without Me? Part 2
• Sleep Masterclass: → Tap Here

Have a question or story to share?

DM Dr. Cathryn on Instagram or email us at drcathryn@healthiest-baby.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do toddlers really need chores?

In this episode, I share why young children want to help — and why letting them contribute builds confidence, responsibility, and a deep sense of belonging.

You’ll hear:

• Why toddlers are naturally wired to help

• How tiny tasks build big confidence

• Why you don’t need chore charts at this age

• How early participation shapes responsible teens later on

Chores at this stage aren’t about productivity. They’re about connection, competence, and feeling valued in the family.

If this resonates, explore my Toddlers Made Easy course for more big-hearted, practical strategies that make parenting life easier.

RESOURCES:

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Toddlers Made Easy online course

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox

Sponsor:

Laundry Sauce

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we talk about what to do when toddler tantrums turn physical—hitting, kicking, or throwing things.

When you understand what’s happening inside your child’s brain, it becomes much easier to stay calm and respond in a way that protects both safety and self-esteem.

You'll learn:

• Why aggressive tantrums happen: Toddlers feel big emotions but don’t yet have the impulse control or problem-solving skills to manage them.

• What to do in the moment: Focus on safety first, stay close and calm, and avoid lectures while your child is overwhelmed.

• How to help long-term: After the storm passes, teach simple skills—like asking for a turn or using words—to handle big feelings next time.

  This episode is made possible by our partner, Laundry Sauce.

  
  

  RESOURCES

  👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

  👉 Tantrum Crash Course mini-class

  👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletter

  
  

  
  

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bedtime was easy… until it wasn’t.
And suddenly your 3-year-old is fighting sleep, stalling, crying — and maybe even climbing out of the crib.

In this Q&A episode, I answer two common parent questions:

#1. Why a great sleeper suddenly starts resisting bedtime at age 3
#2. Why toddlers throw things — and how to respond calmly and effectively

We’ll talk about sleep changes, dropping naps, big transitions (like a new sibling or starting school), and what throwing really means and how to stop it.

RESOURCES:

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You mini-class

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletter

SPONSORS:

Laundry Sauce:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a child is naturally kind and eager to help—especially with a new sibling—it can look beautiful on the outside… and still raise quiet worries on the inside.

In this episode, we talk about how to nurture empathy without teaching a child to disappear herself—and how to keep helping a choice, not a role.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The difference between helping as a choice and helping as a responsibility

• Why constant praise for being “helpful” can unintentionally teach self-sacrifice

• What to say (out loud) so your child knows caregiving is not her job

• How to praise self-advocacy—not just kindness

• Simple shifts that keep your child developmentally centered on herself

This episode is especially meaningful for parents of eldest children and those raising deeply empathetic kids.

🎧 If this big-hearted approach resonates with you, explore Toddlers Made Easy—my practical, developmentally informed course for everyday toddler challenges, in under five minutes a day.

RESOURCES:

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox

Sponsor:

Laundry Sauce

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your toddler should be able to listen, wait, share, or calm down—and felt frustrated when they couldn’t—this episode is for you.

In today’s episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about how unrealistic expectations quietly create power struggles, tantrums, and exhaustion—and how small mindset shifts can make parenting feel much easier.

You’ll learn:

• Why many common expectations don’t match toddler brain development

• How adjusting expectations can prevent tantrums and power struggles

• What to realistically expect from 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds

• How a big-hearted lens helps you stay calm while holding boundaries

🎧 If this approach resonates with you, explore Toddlers Made Easy—my practical, big-hearted course designed for real-life toddler challenges, and it takes under five minutes a day.
👉 Learn more at Toddlers Made Easy, the online course

RESOURCES:

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox

SPONSORS:

Laundry Sauce

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tantrums aren’t misbehavior—they’re a sign your child’s system is overloaded. In this episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about how your calmness (not your words) is the key to helping tantrums pass without escalating.

You’ll learn:

• Why reasoning and “calm down” don’t work in the middle of a tantrum

• When to stay close and quiet—and when to step in for safety

• How sharing your calm helps your child regain theirs

🎧 Want more big-hearted, practical tools for tantrums, bedtime, and everyday power struggles?
Explore Toddlers Made Easy online course.

RESOURCES:

👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn talks about why sharing is so hard early on, what toddlers are actually capable of, and how to handle toy struggles without forcing lessons their brains aren’t ready to learn.

You’ll learn how to support your toddler’s big feelings, keep everyone safe, and gently guide sharing skills as they develop—without pressure, shame, or power struggles.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why toddlers aren’t developmentally ready to share (and when that changes)

• What to say and do when your child grabs toys or melts down at the park

• How forcing sharing can backfire—and what works better instead

Want more big-hearted tools like this?
Check out Toddlers Made Easy, my online course with simple, practical strategies for tantrums, boundaries, sharing, sleep, and everyday toddler struggles—designed to make parenting calmer in just a few minutes a day.

👉 Learn more at Toddlers Made Easy

RESOURCES:

RESOURCES:

👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When kids ignore us, it can feel personal. Disrespectful. Triggering.
But what if “not listening” isn’t a behavior problem at all?

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains why toddlers and preschoolers struggle with cooperation, what’s really happening in their developing brains, and why yelling may work in the moment—but backfires long-term.

You’ll learn how to help your child cooperate without threats, bribes, or power struggles, using big-hearted strategies that help kids feel seen, safe, and more willing to listen.

Because when kids aren’t listening, they’re not being difficult—they’re developing.

RESOURCES:

👉 Join the Big-Hearted membership: ⁠The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting⁠

👉 Follow ⁠Dr. Cathryn on Instagram⁠

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: ⁠newsletter

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr Cathryn unpacks what to do before potty training starts—how to prepare your home, your child, and yourself— so the process feels calmer, easier, and more manageable.

• Set up your space to reduce stress
  Small home-prep steps—like easy cleanup, clear paths to the potty, and stable seating—lower frustration and support learning.

• Warm up your child without pressure
  Simple, playful practice helps kids connect body signals to the potty before anything feels urgent.

• Focus on confidence, not control
  A big-hearted approach builds body awareness, minimizes power struggles, and keeps you connected through the messy moments.

🎉 Free Potty Party coming in early February!
I’ll be hosting a free 3-day Potty Party to walk you through big-hearted potty training and help you feel ready and confident before you begin. More details coming soon—stay tuned.

RESOURCES:

👉 Join the big-hearted membership: The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting

👉 Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram

👉 Subscribe to my free newsletter for big-hearted parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: newsletter

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Potty training doesn’t begin with underwear or sticker charts. It starts with you.
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explains how potty training isn’t just about whether your toddler is ready. Your readiness matters too.

Key takeaways:

• Mantras like "This phase won't last forever" anchor you mid-chaos.
• Cleanup baskets + simple mindset shifts make accidents no big deal.
• Accidents = lessons, not failures, helping you to respond warm, not rattled.

If you’re about to start potty training (or stuck in the middle of it), this episode helps you feel grounded, clear, and ready to lead with calm.

RESOURCES:

Grab the FREE 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training guide and get your child curious, confident, and excited before you begin.

Want more support. Get Potty Training Made Easy: the step-by-step big-hearted approach to saying goodbye to diapers. Special price-over 60% OFF for listeners only.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wired or Tired? Why Your Toddler Loses It at Bedtime

Learn the simple brain science behind overtiredness, the early signs that your child’s sleep window is opening, and why the “second wind” isn’t extra energy. It’s a stress response.

I’ll walk you through how to spot the subtle cues, how to shift bedtime earlier, and what to do when you’ve missed the window, and your child is bouncing off the walls.

You’ll also get a quick, big-hearted reset routine you can use anytime evenings go sideways.

This episode will help you understand your child’s behavior, calm the chaos, and make bedtime smoother for everyone.

RESOURCES:

Help Your Child Fall Asleep Without You!

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Body image doesn’t start in the teen years—it starts in the toddler years. And the words we use today become the beliefs our kids carry tomorrow.

In this week’s episode, I’m sharing how our language, reactions, and even the way we talk about our own bodies shape how little kids see themselves.

You’ll learn:
• Why kids as young as 3–6 already notice and compare bodies
• How to respond when your child asks, “Am I fat?”
• Simple phrases that build healthy body image (and what to avoid)

These strategies will help you raise a child who feels confident and comfortable in their body.

RESOURCES:

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If your child will pee on the potty but absolutely must poop in a diaper, you’re not doing anything wrong — and your child isn’t being stubborn.

This is one of the most common (and most confusing) potty roadblocks for parents.

In this episode, I walk you through why kids get stuck in the “diaper-only” pattern, what’s really going on in their bodies and brains, and the simple steps that help them move forward without pressure or power struggles. You’ll learn how to reset, what to stop doing, and how to make pooping feel safe again.

If you’re tired of waiting for your child to “be ready,” you’ll leave this episode with a calm, clear plan — and a whole lot of relief.

RESOURCES:

Help! My Child Will Only Poop In A Diaper waitlist

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If bedtime feels like a nightly battle of endless requests — more water, more hugs, more everything — this episode is for you.
Dr. Cathryn breaks down what’s really happening in your child’s brain at bedtime and why those stall tactics aren’t defiance but biology. You’ll learn simple, science-backed ways to calm your child’s nervous system, fill their “connection cup,” and finally make bedtime smoother, happier, and shorter.

In this episode:

• Why separation at bedtime triggers anxiety for toddlers

• How connection, not control, helps kids settle

• 5 simple ways to fill your child’s connection cup

• What to do when your toddler is wired and wild before sleep

• How to co-regulate and end bedtime battles for good

Resources:

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.

Get Dr. Cathryn's bestselling book, Toddlers Made Easy

Sponsors:

Acorns Early

Kidsy

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.