

Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn
Dr. Cathryn
Toddlers Made Easy is a short, 10 minute, bite-sized podcast that gives you the insight, tools, and confidence you need to not only handle anything toddler-related thrown your way —but prevent problem behaviors before they start. Toddlers Made Easy is hosted by Dr. Cathryn, a nationally recognized pediatrician (retired) with more than 35 years of experience and a mother of 4.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 6, 2025 • 8min
Why You Should Gossip With Stuffed Animals (Yes, Really)
In this sweet and surprising episode, Dr. Cathryn shares a playful, science-backed way to boost your toddler’s confidence and cooperation — all by whispering to their teddy bear. Learn why toddlers respond better to overheard praise, how to highlight the behavior you want more of, and how this simple shift can bring more calm, connection, and “yes!” moments to your day.

Jul 30, 2025 • 9min
How to Stay Calm When Your Toddler Isn’t: 3 Powerful Mindset Shifts
🎧 How to Stay Calm When Your Toddler Isn’t: 3 Powerful Mindset Shifts
Welcome back to Toddlers Made Easy—the no-fluff podcast for parents in the thick of toddlerhood. I’m Dr. Cathryn—pediatrician (just recently retired), mom of four, and your guide to big-hearted parenting that actually works.
Ever feel like you’re one meltdown away from losing it yourself?
In today’s episode, I’m sharing 3 mindset shifts that will help you stay calm even when your toddler isn’t. These small but mighty shifts will help you:
💡 React with less guilt and more confidence
💡 Understand misbehavior without taking it personally
💡 Build connection—even in the hardest moments
💭 You’ll learn:
Why thinking long-term helps you respond more lovingly in the moment
How your toddler’s brain development explains their wild behavior
Why “bad behavior” is often just a lack of skills—not defiance
💛 This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up with compassion—for your child and yourself.
Want more support?
Join The Big-Hearted School of Parenting—your private membership for weekly quick wins, expert coaching, and real-life toddler tools. Because loving your child comes naturally—but staying calm when they’re not? That’s something we can work on together.

Jul 23, 2025 • 17min
Potty Training Q&A: Pediatrician-Backed Answers
In this episode, I’m answering your top potty training concerns:
💩 What to do if your toddler asks for a diaper to poop
😣 Why over-hyping the potty can backfire
🧠 How kids learn to listen to their bodies
❤️ What to do if you lose your cool
🚫 Why I don’t recommend rewards (and what to do instead)
This is big-hearted, no-pressure potty support. I call my approach 'Unapologetically Lazy'—because it’s low-stress, yet high in success. ✨
👉 Ready for a step-by-step plan? Check out my course Potty Training Made Easy:

8 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 10min
3 Ways to Raise a Toddler Who Doesn’t Give Up
Explore three heartwarming strategies to nurture persistence in toddlers. Discover why facing frustration isn't a setback, but a stepping stone to growth. Learn how letting little ones help, even when it leads to messiness, fosters real confidence. Plus, find out how to offer praise that promotes perseverance rather than fear of failure. These insights aim to equip kids with the mindset to tackle challenges and say, 'I can do hard things!'

Jul 9, 2025 • 15min
Helping Toddlers Feel Loved When a New Baby Arrives
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares big-hearted, practical ways to help your toddler feel secure, loved, and included when welcoming a new baby. From sharing the news to handling jealousy and sibling meetings, this episode helps big feelings feel a little smaller — for everyone.
Resources:
The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting
Follow Dr Cathryn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthiest_baby/

Jul 2, 2025 • 14min
Readiness and other myths
Still waiting for your toddler to want to use the potty? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn shares why the traditional “wait for readiness” advice might be leading to more stress, not less.
You’ll learn:
🚽 Why your smart, capable toddler might be avoiding the potty
🧠 How readiness isn’t a fixed milestone—you can build it.
✨ 5 simple steps to set your child up for potty success (before you ditch diapers)
💪 Why Potty Prep reduces pressure and increases confidence—for both of you.
If you’re feeling stuck, this gentle, big-hearted approach is your next step.
RESOURCES:
FREEBIE: The 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training
Online Course: Potty Training Made Easy

Jun 25, 2025 • 11min
The Secret to Shorter, Fewer, and Less Intense Tantrums
Ever feel like your toddler’s tantrums come out of nowhere—and take forever to end? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, Dr. Cathryn shares a big-hearted, science-backed approach to handling tantrums that actually works.
Order my new book Toddlers Made Easy
Join the Big-Hearted School of Parenting
Follow me on Instagram

Jun 18, 2025 • 14min
REVISIT: The Loving Yet Firm Way Of Saying No
Struggling to set boundaries without caving or feeling that familiar pang of guilt?
In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explores the art of big-hearted parenting—where firm boundaries meet empathy and understanding.
Discover how acknowledging your child’s feelings and using clear, compassionate communication can turn even the toughest moments into powerful opportunities for connection.
You’ll walk away with practical strategies to stay calm, consistent, and confident, even when it feels challenging.
Ready to transform tricky parenting moments into meaningful growth?
Tune in for game-changing tips and insights!
RESOURCES
Get my new book Toddlers Made Easy today if you’re ready for more big-hearted solutions to toddler struggles!
Order Dr Cathryn's book: Toddlers Made Easy: Become The Parent Every Child Needs here or wherever you order books.
✔️ Follow Dr Cathryn on Instagram @Healthiest_Baby
✔️ Get our best-selling online course, Toddlers Made Easy Course
✔️ Learn how to potty train, the lazy way. Potty Training Made Easy
✔️ Join The Big-Hearted School of Parenting
FREEBIES:
👩⚕️ Get the 5 Must-Do’s Before Starting Potty Training guide. Follow these essential steps to make the process smoother and stress-free for both you and your toddler!

Jun 11, 2025 • 12min
My Toddler Keeps Waking Up At Night—Help!
In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn explores why children wake up at night and how to manage it. Drawing from personal experiences, including a notable sleep mistake with her daughter, Dr. Cathryn explains the impact of ineffective sleep associations, fears, and separation anxiety on night wakings. She also touches on medical causes like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and eczema. Learn about the recommended sleep needs for toddlers and discover practical tips for improving your child's sleep routine.
Resources:
The Big-Hearted School Of Parenting
Words That Work

8 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 12min
Why Toddlers Hit and How to Handle It
Discover the common challenges of toddler behavior, including hitting, biting, and kicking. Learn about the developmental joys of play and how imaginative toys can help. Gain insights into the reasons behind these actions through a compassionate lens. Embrace the EASY method for responding empathetically, fostering emotional intelligence, and strengthening connections with your little ones. This engaging guide will boost your confidence and calmness in navigating these tricky parenting moments.