Healing Your Body After Baby with Clare Samol and Heather Thompson

Why Your Toddler Isn’t Talking More & What You Can Do About It w/ Paige O'DwyerIn this episode of Toddler Toolkit, Heather chats with Paige O'Dwyer, a speech language pathologist and the founder of Talk First Words.Paige shares her journey into the field and how her platform helps parents empower their late talkers. With insights into how parents can turn daily routines into language-building opportunities, she explains the benefits of a parent coaching model over traditional speech therapy. Paige also touches on the importance of early intervention and offers practical, easy-to-implement tips for nurturing communication skills in toddlers. Don't miss out on her valuable advice and resources!00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:02 Meet Paige O'Dwyer: Speech Language Pathologist and Founder of Talk First Words00:39 Paige's Journey into Speech and Language Development01:25 The Birth of Talk First Words02:10 Challenges and Innovations in Speech Therapy04:11 Inclusive Play School: Partners in Play06:05 Motherhood and Its Impact on Paige's Work07:53 Common Mistakes Parents Make in Speech Development14:32 The Power of Parent Coaching19:25 Balancing Speech Therapy with Everyday Life24:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents28:08 Where to Find More Resources and Connect with PaigeConnect with Page, send her the word "toolkit" on Instagram for her special toddler toolkit bundle for our listeners. ➤ Instagram: @talkfirstwords ➤ Website: www.talkfirstwords.com------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

4 Elo 202533min

How to Get Your Toddler to Cooperate Without Bribes or Threats!"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit podcast! In this episode, we explore how to get your toddler to cooperate without using bribes or threats. Learn practical strategies for setting clear expectations and creating cooperation before conflict ever starts. I'll share my personal experiences with my own toddler twins, especially in challenging situations like grocery store visits. We'll discuss the common pitfalls of relying on consequences, threats, and bribes, and why being proactive is the game-changer. Don't forget to check out the link in the show notes for more tools and strategies!00:00 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:37 The Power of Setting Clear Expectations01:52 Reality Check: The Role of Consequences03:00 Proactive Strategies in Action04:17 Grocery Store Example: Setting Expectations09:52 The Importance of Clarity and Roles10:57 Contrasting Threats and Bribes12:21 Real-Life Analogies: Why Bribes and Threats Fail16:08 Building Habits and Skills Over Time19:04 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

30 Heinä 202522min

Celebrating 10k Downloads on Toddler Toolkit: Top Episodes, Advice and Mic Drop Moments!Welcome to a special celebration episode of the Toddler Toolkit podcast! We've hit 10,000 downloads and we're diving into the most downloaded episodes of all time to help you navigate toddlerhood. ✨Join the Toddler Mom Community, and Share your Toddler Wins and Struggles!✨Read the blog and get Notes from the Show! We'll also share the top six mic drop moments from our guests, filled with humor and insights to make your parenting journey smoother. Shout outs to our top listener locations and heartfelt thanks to our amazing listeners. Join us for this special milestone and get ready for some great takeaways!Top Episodes: 🎧 Top Toddler Toolkit Episodes (Most Downloaded of All Time)-Click the Links to Listen!1. Handling the "No" Phase: How to Get Your Toddler to Listen Without a Battle Do you feel like you're going to lose your cool if you hear your toddler shout, "NO!" one more time? Here's how to navigate the resistance phase without constant battles.2. Navigating Meltdowns: When Toddlers Don’t Get What They Want Why do toddlers melt down even after getting what they asked for—or flip-flop between yes and no? This episode breaks down their brain wiring and how to guide them through it.3. Toddlerhood: Navigating 18 Months to 2 ½ Years A big-picture look at what’s happening developmentally and emotionally during this stage—plus how to respond in ways that support growth and reduce chaos.4. 5 Common Pitfalls of Toddler Boundaries and How to Avoid Them Boundaries are helpful—but not magic. Learn the common ways they backfire and what to do instead to see real behavior change.The Insightful and FUNNY Mic Drop Moments: 💬 “Your body deserves healing, not just surviving.”– Clare Samol & Heather Thompson, Healing Your Body After Baby💬 “You are not failing. You’re in the messy middle of figuring out what works for your family.” – Taylor Greenberg, From Books to Breakthroughs: The Parenting Advice That Changed My Life💬 “Feeding isn’t just about the bottle or breast—it’s about identity, overwhelm, and feeling seen as a mother.”– Roxie Alsruhe, Breast Milk, Bottles & Burnout: Surviving Baby Feeding OverwhelmThe Most Memorable and Insightful Mic Drop Moments:💬 “Sleep battles are rarely about sleep—they’re about trust and transitions.”– Jensine Casey, My Toddler Isn’t Napping and Not Comfortable Being Alone to Fall Asleep💬 “Play tells us everything. If a child is throwing, lining up, or crashing toys—there’s always a story behind it.”– Ruth Vercoe, From Throwing to Lining Up: What Your Child’s Play Is Really Telling You💬 “Rest isn’t the absence of noise—it’s the presence of safety.” – Jonathan Martinez, End Bedtime Battles: One Shift to Reclaim Your Evenings00:00 Welcome to the Celebration Episode!00:48 Reflecting on the Podcast's Growth01:49 Top Cities and Countries Tuning In02:43 Most Downloaded Episodes Revealed02:55 Handling the No Phase03:46 Navigating Toddler Meltdowns04:40 Toddlerhood: 18 Months to 2.5 Years06:02 Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Toddler Boundaries07:30 Top Mic Drop Moments: Humor and Insights21:07 Final Thoughts and Encouragement"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the

28 Heinä 202524min

5 Strategies that are more Powerful than Time OutThe Toddler Toolkit Podcast, is so close to 10k downloads, please help support the podcast by downloading a helpful episode or sharing the podcast with a friend or family member in need- so these free resources can reach & support more families."If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!Join us on the Toddler Toolkit Podcast as we explore five powerful strategies to manage toddler behavior more effectively than traditional timeout. Discover the reasons why timeout can backfire and learn actionable techniques to address your child's needs, build essential skills, and foster a positive parent-child connection. This episode offers reflective questions for parents and practical advice on teaching and reinforcing the right behaviors. Tune in and gain valuable insights to navigate your parenting journey with confidence!00:00 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit Podcast01:25 Why Timeout Often Fails03:09 Reflective Questions for Parents09:27 Five Strategies Better Than Timeout15:18 Closing Thoughts and Additional Resources------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

23 Heinä 202516min

What “No!”, “Go Away!”, and Other Toddler Phrases Actually MeanYou wont want to miss out on my 'tug-of-war' metaphor that changes how you show up for your toddler during tough moments!The Toddler Toolkit Podcast, is so close to 10k downloads, please help support the podcast by downloading a helpful episode or sharing the podcast with a friend or family member in need- so these free resources can reach & support more families."If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit Podcast! In this episode, we discuss the deeper meaning behind your toddler saying 'No' or 'Go away.' I share a personal update and emphasize the importance of support and community, revealing my journey as a bestselling co-author. We explore how to interpret your child's challenging moments as a cry for safety and connection rather than rejection. Learn practical strategies to respond effectively, ensuring you maintain strong, supportive bonds with your little ones. Plus, discover useful phrases and tools to help both you and your toddler navigate big emotions. Stay tuned for insights that can transform your parenting approach and strengthen your relationship with your child.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:02 Personal Updates 01:46 Supporting the Podcast and Special Ask from Listeners02:46 Understanding Toddler Rejection05:14 Reframing Toddler Behavior06:12 Why Toddlers Say 'Go Away' or 'No'07:30 Interpreting Toddler Language14:03 Responding to Toddler Outbursts14:24 The Tug of War Metaphor23:20 Long-Term Impact of Emotional Support24:03 Conclusion and Resources------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

21 Heinä 202526min

In this heartwarming episode of The Toddler Toolkit, Heather sits down with Jonathan Martinez—dad of two, former special education teacher, registered nurse, and creator of Yawnimals, a soothing bedtime audiobook series helping families find calm at the end of the day.🎧Listen to Yawnimals on SpotifyJonathan shares how his unique path—from caring for patients on their hardest days to leading classrooms with compassion—inspired him to create stories that are more than bedtime entertainment. They’re a way for parents to be the emotional anchor, the steady mountain children can lean on.Together, they explore why rest is about more than sleep, how setting clear expectations creates security, and why helping kids wind down isn’t a battle—it’s a bridge to connection. You’ll hear Jonathan’s perspective on bringing entrepreneurship into parenting, thinking creatively to serve others, and modeling resilience and presence for your kids.Whether you’re struggling with bedtime meltdowns or simply want to make evenings more peaceful, this conversation will inspire you to approach bedtime as a time to connect, restore, and show up as your child’s safe place—even on the toughest days. Tune in to hear about his innovative bedtime strategies, his children's involvement in the project, and insights about maintaining compassion and regulation as both a parent and professional caregiver.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast01:03 Meet Jonathan Martinez: A Multifaceted Journey02:35 Lessons from Special Education06:51 From Teaching to Nursing08:09 The Birth of Yawn Animals12:07 Creative Entrepreneurship with Kids16:46 Bedtime Challenges and Solutions22:35 The Power of Imagination in Children's Bedtime23:51 Transitioning Through Toddler Years25:01 Engaging Bedtime Routines26:21 Parental Strategies for Bedtime30:30 The Importance of Rest for Parents36:58 Emotional Regulation and Compassion40:44 New Projects and Social Media45:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsListen to Yawnimals: Yawnimals on SpotifyYawnimals on HooplaYawnimals on LibbyYawnimals on AudibleYawnimals on Apple BooksYawnimals on Amazon (Kindle Addition)Follow Yawnimals on Social Media: InstagramFacebookYoutubeTikTokX------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. She's the Toddler Toolkit Podcast Host, a co-author of the #1 International Best Selling Book, The Perfectly Imperfect Family & the founder of the Happy Toddler, Confident Parent Cohort and Course.  You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

16 Heinä 202548min

Navigating the Toddler Years: Ages 3-4"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!Hey parents! Welcome to Toddler Toolkit. Struggling with your three to four-year-old's listening skills? You're not alone. In this episode, we share real parent struggles and provide insights to help you navigate these challenging years. From cognitive development to handling big emotions, we cover the key skills your toddler is building. Plus, check out our 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast guide for practical tips. Join us as we break down what's normal at this stage and how you can support your child's growth. Don't miss out on essential advice for this unpredictable but important time in your child's life.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit00:58 Common Toddler Struggles03:04 Understanding Toddler Development03:40 Cognitive Development in Toddlers06:41 Physical Development Milestones07:28 Social and Emotional Growth09:02 Managing Big Emotions13:47 Common Challenges and Solutions20:05 Final Thoughts and Resources------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

14 Heinä 202523min

How to Stay Calm When Your Child Loses It - Practical Tips for Parents"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting & not listening... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE! When your child is screaming, throwing toys, or melting down in public, it can feel impossible to stay calm. But what if you didn’t have to be the “perfect” parent to handle big emotions with steadiness?In this episode, we’ll unpack what really makes it possible to keep your cool—even when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or triggered yourself. You’ll hear stories, fresh perspectives, and the mindset shifts that change everything in those heated moments.If you’ve ever wondered how to be the calm anchor your child needs, this is for you.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:14 The Importance of Staying Calm00:22 Personal Anecdote from The Voice01:33 Understanding Calmness and Patience02:20 Managing External Pressures06:36 Defining Calmness09:28 Reflecting on Personal Experiences11:03 Proactive Parenting Strategies11:43 Daily Habits for Calmness12:09 The Power of Self-Reflection14:36 Emotional Buttons and Childhood Experiences18:11 Building Calmness as a Skill25:14 The Role of Self-Compassion29:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsStudy Citations:Citation: Kross, E., & Ayduk, O. (2011). Making meaning out of negative experiences by self-distancing. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 20(3), 187–191.Citation: Gross, J. J., & John, O. P. (2003). Individual differences in two emotion regulation processes: implications for affect, relationships, and well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 85(2), 348–362.Citation: Slade, A. (2005). Parental reflective functioning: An introduction. Attachment & Human Development, 7(3), 269–281.Citation: Neff, K. D. (2003). Self-compassion: An alternative conceptualization of a healthy attitude toward oneself. Self and Identity, 2(2), 85–101.------------------------------------------------------Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastCheck out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Join the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

9 Heinä 202531min