Securely Attached Q&A: Is it normal for my toddler to want to wear the same outfit every day?
Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg, Dr. Emily Upshur, and I talk about...
- Why toddlers often get intensely attached to a single outfit and why this kind of rigidity is usually a totally normal part of development.
- How to understand the difference between a sensory preference, a sensory processing challenge, and everyday toddler stubbornness.
- What "system load" is and why kids become more rigid when they are navigating stress, transitions, or big developmental leaps.
- How to reduce morning battles by planning ahead, building flexibility skills, and getting curious about what is really driving your child's resistance.
- What to do on the days when nothing works, including how to ride out meltdowns with less guilt and more grounded presence.
If you are struggling with daily clothing standoffs or wondering whether your child's rigidity means something is wrong, this episode will help you make sense of what is developmentally typical, when to consider sensory support, and how to navigate tough moments with more confidence and clarity.
REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES:
💥 Tired of constant battles with your child? Watch my ✨FREE✨ workshop, Overcoming Power Struggles, where I'll teach you the exact strategies I use in my clinical practice to help parents break free from the cycle of yelling, threats, and negotiations—and instead foster cooperation, connection, and calm. Just visit drsarahbren.com/powerstruggles to get instant access to this workshop.
CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:
🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about understanding your toddler with Devon Kuntzman
🎧 Listen to my podcast episode on how to mindfully parent a threenager
🎧 Listen to my podcast episode on strengthening your child's distress tolerance
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:
Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!