Ever feel like your toddler is trying to break you? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re joined by the incredible Devon Kuntzman—toddler parenting expert and author of the brand new book Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Handle Tantrums and Power Struggles and Raise Resilient Kids Without Losing Your Mind. We dive into the real talk about toddler behavior, emotional regulation, and how we as parents can stay sane and connected in the chaos.

Whether you’re in the thick of toddlerhood yourself, preparing for grandparenting, or just love understanding the "why" behind those tiny tornadoes, this conversation is packed with empathy, science-backed strategies, and hope. Devon gives us a totally refreshing reframe on discipline, tantrums, and screen time—and we also explore how much has changed (and how much hasn’t) in parenting over the decades.

 

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Meet Devon and her just-launched book on toddlerhood
 [3:06] Redefining what “toddler” really means
 [4:33] What’s changed in the way we understand toddler behavior
 [7:48] Why toddler meltdowns aren’t bad behavior—they’re communication
 [9:47] Parenting styles: from controlling commander to confident guide
 [12:49] Real-world scenario: what to do when your toddler hits you
 [15:24] Teaching kids to cope with emotions instead of just punishing behavior
 [17:19] The importance of reparenting yourself while raising your child
 [18:24] How to avoid permissiveness while still setting healthy limits
 [21:08] It’s okay to be overwhelmed—and why repair is more powerful than perfection
 [25:00] Devon’s 4-step process for repairing relationships after a parenting slip
 [27:27] Generational gaps: parenting now vs. then
 [29:53] Navigating boundaries with your child and your parents
[32:04] Real talk: toddlers and restaurants are not always a match
[33:53] What’s the deal with screens? Devon breaks down screen time and brain health
[35:32] Parenting isn’t passive—it’s the hardest job you’ll ever love
[37:56] Self-compassion, strong-willed toddlers, and hilarious parenting fails
[39:44] Final takeaways: discipline that connects, teaches, and sets limits

 

Links and Resources: 

🍼 Transforming Toddlerhood by Devon Kuntzman: https://www.transformingtoddlerhood.com/book/

📲 Follow Devon on Instagram: @transformingtoddlerhood

 

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