A child’s transition into toddlerhood is both magical and mystifying. They’re mobile, on-the-go, and constantly absorbing new information from the environment and people around them. Jennifer Gillette is a child development and family specialist who is also the founder and owner of The Loved Child Family Center, an organization that offers education, community, and support to parents-to-be and parents of kids of all ages. Jennifer joins the podcast to talk about all aspects of a toddler’s development. She walks us through some of the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social changes that happen at this pivotal time for a child and a parent. And, she answers some of our listeners’ most pressing questions – everything from bedtime routines to picky eating to dealing with the dreaded tantrum.

Listen to this episode to learn:

-What’s going on inside a toddler’s brain and how to react accordingly

-Techniques on how to handle a tantrum like a pro (really!)

-How to regulate your own emotions and behaviors when a toddler exhibits challenging behaviors, like biting, hitting, and not sharing

-Ideas for how parents can prepare their toddlers for the arrival of a new brother or sister

-Picky eating – what’s normal, when to worry, and how to set healthy mealtime routines

-The right time to start potty training, and how to set a toddler up for success

-The importance of routine and choice for toddlers