Episodios

  • The 7 Types of Toddler NO’s (and How to Respond to Each One)

    The 7 Types of Toddler NO’s (and How to Respond to Each One)
    Nov 20 2025

    The 7 Types of Toddler NO’s (and How to Respond to Each One)

    "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!

    Recommended Podcast Episodes Referenced in the episode:
    How Your Child’s Hurtful Words Reveal the #1 Thing You Need Most
    What “No!”, “Go Away!”, and Other Toddler Phrases Actually Mean

    In this Toddler Toolkit podcast episode, we discuss the seven types of toddler 'no's and the best strategies for each one.

    We'll cover types like transition 'no', routine 'no', social 'no', connection 'no', cognitive load 'no', sensory 'no', and fatigue 'no'. Understanding these can help parents avoid power struggles and better support their child's needs. Also, get details on the Black Friday special and the Calm Superpower cohort.

    00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast
    00:15 Understanding Toddler Behavior
    01:35 The Seven Types of Toddler Nos
    02:08 Special Announcements and Offers
    03:22 Deep Dive into Toddler Nos
    03:55 Transition Nos
    04:55 Routine Nos
    06:32 Social Nos
    08:00 Connection Nos
    09:22 Cognitive Load Nos
    10:41 Sensory and Fatigue Nos
    14:15 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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    20 m
  • 5 Mistakes Parents Make When Their Toddler Says ‘No’ (and What to Do Instead)

    5 Mistakes Parents Make When Their Toddler Says ‘No’ (and What to Do Instead)
    Nov 12 2025

    5 Mistakes Parents Make When Toddlers Say No (And What to Do Instead!)

    Welcome to the 100th episode of Toddler Toolkit Podcast!

    Join the Calm Superpower Cohort HERE!
    In this 3-week live experience, starting November 3rd, we’ll walk through the three biggest areas of toddler struggle:
    1️⃣ Listening and cooperation
     2️⃣ Meltdowns and emotional coaching
     3️⃣ Triggers and your own calm superpower

    You’ll get live Q&As, short lessons, and strategies that actually work in real life.

    In this episode, we discuss the five common mistakes parents make when their toddlers say 'no' and provide effective strategies to handle these situations. From avoiding saying 'no' too often, to understanding the root cause behind the behaviors, and the limitations of offering choices, we cover it all. Tune in for practical tips to navigate your toddler's challenging moments and improve your parenting approach. Plus, don't forget to check out our free guide on the Seven Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast. See you in the next episode!

    00:00 Welcome to the 100th Episode!
    00:14 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit
    00:54 Mistake #1: Saying No Too Much
    02:03 Mistake #2: Trying to Change Too Many Behaviors
    03:57 Mistake #3: Misunderstanding the Root Cause
    05:49 Mistake #4: Teaching What Not to Do
    06:52 Mistake #5: Assuming Choices Are the Only Fix
    10:48 Recap 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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    12 m
  • Moms, You Don’t Need More Patience—You Need More Presence (w/ Katie Krimitsos)

    Moms, You Don’t Need More Patience—You Need More Presence (w/ Katie Krimitsos)
    Nov 5 2025
    Moms, You Don’t Need More Patience—You Need More Presence (w/ Katie Krimitsos) If you’ve ever whispered to yourself, ‘I just need more patience,’ this episode is your permission slip to stop striving and start being. Katie Krimitsos, founder of the Women’s Meditation Network, joins us to share how presence—not perfection—is what actually brings calm in motherhood. Say goodbye to Anxiety with Katie!Download the 5 Secrets to Unleashing Your Meditation Magic, HERE!Listen to Dailly Affirmations with Katie:I Am Proud of the Mother I Have Become-HereIn this special episode of the Toddler Toolkit podcast, we sit down with Katie Krimitsos, founder of the Women's Meditation Network. Katie's meditations have been downloaded over a hundred million times by women worldwide. Join us as Katie shares her inspiring journey from recording in her bedroom closet to reaching nearly 200 million downloads. We discuss the power of stillness amid motherhood chaos, moving from reaction to reflection, and embracing the idea that we already are love. This episode is full of grounding and emotional wisdom for every overwhelmed or disconnected mom. Katie also shares practical tips on building a meditation practice, the importance of self-love, and intentional parenting. Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful conversation that will resonate with moms everywhere.00:00 Welcome to Toddler Toolkit Podcast00:05 Meet Katie Krimitsos: Founder of Women's Meditation Network01:07 Katie's Journey: From Bedroom Closet to Global Impact02:55 The Turning Point: Pregnancy and Intuition04:26 Launching the Women's Meditation Network04:56 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome07:04 Balancing Motherhood and Meditation10:36 The Power of Meditation in Motherhood12:29 Debunking Meditation Myths17:34 Connecting with Intuition Amidst Chaos21:13 Mindful Parenting: Handling Meltdowns with Grace22:54 Struggles with Reading and Self-Perception24:06 A New School Brings New Beginnings25:36 The Power of Meditation in Parenting28:14 Intentional Parenting and Family Values30:35 Self-Compassion and Overcoming Mom Guilt37:37 Modeling Love and Self-Acceptance42:20 Closing 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!Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • How Your Child’s Hurtful Words Reveal the #1 Thing You Need Most

    How Your Child’s Hurtful Words Reveal the #1 Thing You Need Most
    Oct 27 2025
    How Your Child’s Hurtful Words Reveal the #1 Thing You Need MostJoin the Calm Superpower Cohort HERE!In this 3-week live experience, starting November 3rd, we’ll walk through the three biggest areas of toddler struggle:1️⃣ Listening and cooperation 2️⃣ Meltdowns and emotional coaching 3️⃣ Triggers and your own calm superpowerYou’ll get live Q&As, short lessons, and strategies that actually work in real life.And when you enroll by October 31st, you’ll save $100 and get a free Toddler Toolkit T-shirt while supplies last.Listen to a related and helpful episode, 'The Hidden Reason You Snap and 4 Things That Stop the Cycle' here.Back to the Episode:Ever feel stung by your toddler's words? In this episode, we talk about why toddlers say hurtful things like 'Go away, Mommy' and 'I don't love you,' and how these moments reveal what you need most as a parent. We'll discuss toddler tantrums, emotional boundaries, and the hidden fix-it loop that can leave you feeling drained. Learn how to stay calm and ensure your peace doesn't depend on your child's behavior. Plus, join the Calm Superpower cohort starting November 3rd for strategies to handle listening, meltdowns, and triggers. Sign up by October 31st to save $100 and get a free Toddler Toolkit T-shirt!00:00 Introduction: The Hidden Fix-It Loop00:31 Understanding Toddler Tantrums and Hurtful Words00:58 Introducing the Calm Superpower Cohort02:19 Exploring Emotional Boundaries06:51 The Hidden Fix-It Loop Explained10:14 Nervous System Link: Safety vs. Seeking11:30 Emotional Boundaries vs. Emotional Walls18:26 Practical Responses to Hurtful Words20:25 Conclusion and Next Steps------------------------------------------------------"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!Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • The New Way to Handle Toddler Tantrums and Big Emotions w/ Devon Kuntzman, Transforming Toddlerhood

    The New Way to Handle Toddler Tantrums and Big Emotions w/ Devon Kuntzman, Transforming Toddlerhood
    Oct 21 2025

    Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Embrace and Enjoy Parenting with Devin Kuntzman!

    Follow Devon Kuntzman here on Instagram
    Get Devon's new book, Transforming Toddlerhood here!

    Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have modern parenting expert Devin Kuntzman.

    Devin is well-known for her work on Instagram as the original toddler parenting coach, trusted by millions of parents worldwide.

    Devin shares her mission to shift the narrative around toddlerhood, viewing it as a stage filled with opportunities rather than challenges. She discusses her comprehensive new book, 'Transforming Toddlerhood,' coming out on October 21, 2025, that's packed with actionable advice for caregivers.

    Devin also talks about the importance of understanding toddler behavior as communication and shares practical tips for dealing with power struggles and tantrums. Join us as we explore ways to navigate the ups and downs of toddlerhood with confidence and joy.

    00:00 Introduction to Toddler Behavior Challenges

    01:05 Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit Podcast

    01:11 Meet Devon Kuntzman: Transforming Toddlerhood

    03:59 Understanding Toddler Behavior as Communication

    09:03 The Importance of Realistic Expectations

    12:54 Practical Tips for Positive Parenting

    22:40 Behavioral Red Flags to Watch For

    25:23 Navigating Parenting Overwhelm

    26:33 The Messiness of Toddlerhood

    27:31 Empathy and Parenting Challenges

    29:11 Balancing Discipline and Emotional Wellbeing

    31:00 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting

    34:17 Real-Life Parenting Struggles

    38:35 Building Awareness and Growth Mindset

    42:15 The Impact of Transforming Toddlerhood

    46:10 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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • Stop Trying to Get Your Toddler to Listen: Right Intention, Wrong Strategy

    Stop Trying to Get Your Toddler to Listen: Right Intention, Wrong Strategy
    Oct 20 2025

    Stop Trying to Get Your Toddler to Listen: Right Intention, Wrong Strategy


    The Calm Superpower Cohort starts the week of November 3rd.
     It’s three weeks, three live Q&As on Zoom (recordings available after), and one calm superpower that changes everything.

    You’ll learn how to handle meltdowns, power struggles, and those “push your button” moments with tools that actually work in real life.
    Enroll before October 31st to get the Sweet Treat Deal — $97 (regularly $197) and a free Toddler Toolkit T-shirt (value of $30 USD) for the first 5 sign-ups. Sign up here!


    In this episode of the Toddler Toolkit podcast, we’re exploring the true meaning of 'listening' when it comes to toddlers.
    Learn how to distinguish between mere compliance and genuine cooperation, and discover why the latter is crucial for your child's long-term development.

    Join us as we discuss practical tips for fostering cooperation, the hidden costs of enforcing compliance, and the importance of connection in shaping resilient kids. Plus, get all the details on the upcoming Calm Superpower cohort starting the week of November 3rd, designed to equip you with real-life tools for handling toddler meltdowns and power struggles.

    00:00 Introduction to Toddler Toolkit Podcast
    00:02 Understanding Listening vs. Cooperation
    00:56 Introducing the Calm Superpower Cohort
    02:38 Back to the Episode: Listening vs. Compliance
    04:04 The Importance of True Cooperation
    06:26 Compliance vs. Cooperation Pathways
    12:07 The Hidden Costs of Good Listening
    16:51 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

    ------------------------------------------------------
    "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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    20 m
  • The Hidden Reason You Snap and 4 Things That Stop the Cycle

    The Hidden Reason You Snap and 4 Things That Stop the Cycle
    Oct 13 2025

    The Hidden Reason You Snap and 4 Things That Stop the Cycle | Toddler Toolkit Podcast

    "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, I reflect on a key insight inspired between my personal life and by an interview with Katie Krimitsos (coming on air soon!): why is it easier for moms to show compassion to their children than to themselves?

    We dive into real-life scenarios where self-criticism depletes our patience, explore the concept of 'compassion leaks,' and discuss how this imbalance affects our ability to care for our kids effectively.

    I share personal stories and offer practical steps for practicing self-compassion and maintaining emotional balance. Join me for an honest conversation about the importance of giving yourself grace and how it benefits both you and your family.

    00:00 Introduction: The Compassion Dilemma
    01:11 A Real-Life Example: Nighttime Meltdown
    04:28 Understanding Compassion Leaks
    04:44 Common Compassion Leak Scenarios
    08:30 The Importance of Self-Compassion
    12:47 Practical Steps for Preventative Regulation
    14:44 Conclusion: Embracing Imperfection

    ------------------------------------------------------
    "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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    17 m
  • Toddler Fighting You? 3 Ways Parents Accidentally Shut Down Kindness

    Toddler Fighting You? 3 Ways Parents Accidentally Shut Down Kindness
    Oct 6 2025

    Toddler Fighting You? 3 Ways Parents Accidentally Shut Down Kindness

    🎤I’m so honored to be a speaker in the Happily Family Online Conference (Oct 9–13) alongside Dr. Daniel Siegel,
    More than 100,000 families are already joining in. Together, we’ll hear from 25+ parenting experts sharing practical tools for real family life—the messy, imperfect, beautiful kind.
    👉 Get a Free Ticket Here. 🎫

    ------------------------------------------------------


    In this episode of the Toddler Toolkit Podcast, we explore why toddlers often seem defiant and how parents might unintentionally suppress kindness in their children.

    Learn the three common mistakes—missing the care, shaming the care, and focusing on the negative—and find out how to reframe these moments to foster kindness instead of conflict.

    I'll share real-life examples, exact words you can use, and practical tools for parenting.

    Plus, don't miss insights from the upcoming Happily Family Conference, featuring experts like Dr. Daniel Siegel. Tune in to strengthen your parent-child bond and nurture emotional intelligence in your kids.

    00:00 Introduction: Understanding Toddler Behavior
    01:00 Common Parenting Challenges
    01:47 The Concept of Invisible Care
    04:04 Three Ways Parents Shut Down Kindness
    05:28 Real-Life Examples and Reframes
    12:32 Biology and Negativity Bias
    16:20 Growing More Kindness
    18:05 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

    ------------------------------------------------------
    "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!

    Watch us Chat for the Podcast Interviews with YouTube Video 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 Fast
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Más Menos
    22 m