Toddler Toolkit

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

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 Jul 48min

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 Jul 23min

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 Jul 31min

Toddler Car Battles: Why They Happen and What Helps"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!In this episode of the Toddler Toolkit podcast, we discuss common issues around car seat battles with toddlers, why they happen, and various strategies to manage them. Topics include potential causes like loss of control, transitions, sensory overload, and hunger, along with detailed solutions for different scenarios like route changes, difficulty getting in/out of the car, and sibling issues. We also talk about the importance of understanding the 'why' behind the behavior and provide tips for proactive measures and positive reinforcement. Join us for practical advice and support on managing these tough moments with your little ones, and don't forget to check out the Seven Toddler Struggles guide linked in the show notes for additional resources.00:00 Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:56 Understanding Car Seat Battles02:41 Handling Route Changes04:05 Dealing with Refusal to Get Out of the Car05:09 Managing Screaming During Car Rides06:00 Addressing Refusal to Get in the Car06:41 Meltdowns After School or Daycare07:52 Refusal to Get Buckled in the Car Seat09:34 Sibling Issues in the Car13:24 Preventing and Easing Car Battles14:17 Conclusion 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

7 Jul 16min

Big Emotions as the Map: Guiding Your Child’s Lifelong Coping Skills Because....What You Do in Your Child's 'Big Emotional Moments' Changes Everything "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!In this episode of the Toddler Toolkit Podcast, we dive into why your toddler's big emotions matter and how to respond effectively. The discussion covers why these emotions are developmentally appropriate, the impact of dismissing feelings, and practical strategies like co-regulation. Learn how to support your child's emotional growth and build healthy relationships by showing up with curiosity and connection. Don't forget to check out the guide to the seven toddler struggles and how to solve them quickly in the show notes.00:00 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:57 Why Big Emotions Matter02:27 Understanding Toddler Development05:14 Big Feelings Are Not Bad Behavior10:45 Consequences of Shutting Down Emotions14:50 Avoidant and Anxious Coping Strategies22:09 Lifelong Impact of Dismissing Feelings23:05 Co-Regulation Over Correction25:31 Encouragement for Parents29:10 Conclusion and Personal Reflections------------------------------------------------------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

2 Jul 31min

Kindergarten Readiness & Preschool Daycare Tips with Expert Amy Fieldman"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 today's episode, we share a clip from the Happy Toddler Confident Parenting Cohort featuring guest expert Amy Fieldman. Amy talks about kindergarten readiness, preschool daycare support, and tackles common toddler struggles. Learn practical tips on scaffolding for independence, managing transitions, enhancing storytime, and using classroom jobs to build confidence. For more in-depth advice, be sure to download the 'Seven Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast' guide from the show notes.00:00 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit Podcast01:47 Guest Expert: Amy Fieldman on Kindergarten Readiness02:30 Q&A Session with Amy Fieldman03:02 Supporting Toddler Independence04:22 Helping Toddlers with Transitions05:41 Fine Motor Skills and Writing Prep09:09 Engaging Toddlers in Story Time10:55 Using Fidget Tools for Focus12:29 Scaffolding for Art Projects15:01 Helper Jobs for Toddlers17:26 Conclusion 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.Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastJoin the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

30 Jun 18min

Handling Toddler Meltdowns: What Pancakes Taught Me About EmotionsHeather Schalk shares insights and strategies on managing toddler meltdowns using a relatable pancake breakfast scenario that was a true story! She discusses the importance of modeling calm behavior, recognizing frustration tolerance, and teaching toddlers self-regulation techniques. Heather invites listeners to a free guide and class recording:  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast-Introduction and Overview-Free Guide-The Pancake Incident-Modeling Frustration Management-Conclusion and Free Guide"If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting... 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. 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.Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!Grab the  The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them FastJoin the Toddler Mom CommunityFollow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparentingWatch the YouTube channelCheck out the blog

9 Jun 9min