My 3-year-old was on the floor at 6:27 AM. No pants. Refused to put any on. We needed to leave in 20 minutes. I stood there watching her, thinking “How did my life get here?” Sound familiar? Morning battles with toddlers are the worst. I used to hear my alarm and think “Oh god, here…
Picture this: You’re in Target, just trying to grab diapers and milk. Your 2-year-old spots the toy aisle and loses their absolute mind when you say no. They’re screaming, throwing themselves on the floor, and every single person in the store is staring at you like you’re the worst parent alive. Been there? Yeah, me…
You’re Not Alone in This It’s 8 PM. You’re exhausted from the day, and all you want is to get your toddler to bed peacefully. Instead, you’re facing screaming, negotiations, endless requests for water, and that sinking feeling that you’re somehow failing as a parent. Let me tell you something: You are not failing. You’re…
Your toddler sobs over broken crackers. Rages when their tower falls. Becomes inconsolable over minor disappointments. Big emotions in small bodies overwhelm everyone. You feel helpless watching them struggle. Today you become their emotional guide. Big feelings become manageable with your support. The Big Feelings Navigation System Step 1: Stay Calm During Their Emotional Storms…
Tired of being a referee all day long? “He hit me.” “She took my toy.” “This isn’t fair.” Here’s what I learned: Don’t solve their problems. Teach them to solve their own. What this looks like: Your new fight phrase: “You both have big feelings. Let’s figure this out.” Why this works: They learn problem-solving…
Here’s what worked for us (and lots of other parents I know): Give Them Something Special Create excitement instead of dread. We started keeping a small toy that only comes out during car rides. My daughter now asks to get in her car seat so she plays with her “car elephant.” Ideas that work: •…