The 4 Tantrum Styles: Which One Are You (and How to Handle Meltdowns Better)
Understanding Your Toddler's Tantrums: Find Your Parenting Style"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!This episode was referenced for you to also listen to: What You Do in Your Child’s 'Big Emotional Moments' Changes EverythingWhy Your Toddler Can’t Hear You in a Meltdown & What to Do InsteadWelcome to the Toddler Toolkit podcast! In this episode, we tackle toddler tantrums and the different styles parents use to handle them: the fixer, the shusher, the avoider, and the controller. We discuss why these behaviors happen, what might be missing in each approach, and introduce the balanced parent style for a healthier way to manage meltdowns. We'll also reflect on how our own upbringing influences our reactions and offer insights to help you become more intentional and self-aware in your parenting. Don't forget to grab the free guide 'Seven Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast' from the show notes.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:22 Understanding Tantrum Styles04:02 The Fixer Tantrum Style07:45 The Shusher Tantrum Style13:01 The Avoider Tantrum Style15:13 The Controller Tantrum Style18:01 Becoming a Balanced Parent22:26 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 YouTube channelCheck out the blog
25 Aug 25min
Why Your Toddler Can’t Hear You in a Meltdown & What to Do Instead
Why Your Toddler Can’t Hear You in a Meltdown & What to Do Instead"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!This episode was referenced for you to also listen to: What You Do in Your Child’s 'Big Emotional Moments' Changes EverythingIn this episode of the Toddler Toolkit podcast, we dive into the power of holding space for your toddler's big emotions without trying to fix or debate them. Learn three core practices: holding space, matching and leading the energy down, and repairing over perfection. Discover practical steps to calm your child's nervous system, turning meltdowns into teachable moments. Get insights on how to use your presence, body language, and tone to create safety and connection. Plus, hear a real-life story about handling playground dynamics effectively. For more resources, check out the free guide on solving toddler struggles in the show notes.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:03 Understanding the Power of Holding Space00:52 Mindset Shift: You Don't Have to Fix Every Meltdown01:50 Core Practice 1: Holding Space05:32 Core Practice 2: Match, Then Lead the Energy Down06:45 Core Practice 3: Repair Beats Perfection08:15 Real-Life Example: Holding Space at the Park12:22 Five Lessons from the Story15:47 Final Thoughts and Resources"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
18 Aug 18min
Bribes vs. Earning: Get Your Toddler to Cooperate Without Candy
Bribes vs. Earning: Effective Toddler Parenting Strategies"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!Listen to this episode that pairs with this one, Get Your Toddler to Cooperate Without Bribes or ThreatsIn this episode of the Toddler Toolkit Podcast, we explore the critical difference between bribing and helping toddlers work towards something. The podcast covers why this distinction matters, real-life examples, and effective strategies to foster intrinsic motivation in children. We also discuss why bribes often backfire, the hierarchy of motivation, and provide practical tips from the host's background as a special education teacher and toddler parenting coach. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:13 Understanding Bribes vs. Earning Rewards03:01 Examples and Real-Life Analogies05:42 Proactive Strategies and Habit Building16:31 Hierarchy of Motivation19:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts"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
11 Aug 22min
Why Your Toddler Isn’t Talking More & What You Can Do About It w/ Paige O'Dwyer
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 Aug 33min
Get Your Toddler to Cooperate Without Bribes or Threats
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 Jul 22min
Toddler Toolkit: Best Episodes, Game-Changing Advice & Mic-Drop Moments
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 Jul 24min
5 Strategies that are More Powerful than Time Out
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 Jul 16min
What “No!”, “Go Away!”, and Other Toddler Phrases Actually Mean
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 Jul 26min
