From dealing with toddlers who constantly say "no!" to navigating three-year-old stubbornness, today Karen is answering your questions and sharing practical strategies to help you respond with consistency and grace. You’ll learn how to set boundaries that stick and understand why repetition is key to laying a foundation of obedience. Whether you're managing meltdowns or guiding a strong-willed child, this episode will equip you to keep calm and parent on!

Episode Recap:

2:43 - Is age two or three more difficult?

4:41 - My four yr old doesn’t listen and it puts him in danger! How can I get him to take me seriously?

7:15 - Toddlers HAVE to know that you are going to follow through!

8:50 - I’m constantly threatening my 2.5 yr old daughter with consequences for not obeying, is she only obeying out of fear?

11:00 - My 7 year old daughter has no motivation to do anything! How do I get her to get moving? 

14:25 - Talk to your child’s teacher if their homework seems to take them forever at home, there could be something to pay attention to there.

18:55 - Help! My husband and I are at our wit’s end with our combative 4 year old. 

Scripture for Reflection: Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Questions for Discussion:

1. What are some challenges you face with your toddler or preschooler’s strong emotions? How do you typically respond?
2. How do you balance immediate consequences with teaching long-term obedience?
3. What strategies have you found helpful for setting boundaries with strong-willed children?
4. How can you maintain consistency when it feels like your child isn’t getting the message?

Resources:

• Download the BOAW app to send us your questions! https://apps.apple.com/us/app/birds-on-a-wire-moms/id1419899927
• Don’t miss the boat! Register for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.com
• Kathleen Edelman’s A Grown Up’s Guide to Kids’ Wiring: https://amzn.to/4lmF5VF
• Wire Talk episode 433 with Wellesley Jongko: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/433-you-can-set-your-child-up-for-readin