Do your evenings disappear into chaos—feeding, cleaning, and collapsing into bed exhausted? Are you wondering how to stay calm and connected while parenting toddlers who seem to need you every second?

In this episode, Greg & Rachel reveal the mindset and framework behind calm parenting toddlers—how to meet your child’s needs without losing yourself, gently transition from co-sleeping, and end night wakings without cry-it-out. You’ll learn why the 0–5 window shapes your child’s identity, confidence, and future emotional health—and how your calm presence now builds secure attachment and independence later.

They also share why dads don’t babysit—they lead, and how fathers can bring energy, joy, and true relief to moms in the toddler trenches. You’ll leave with practical, doable shifts that make family life lighter, calmer, and far more fulfilling.

🗝️ Key Takeaways

✅ Calm parenting toddlers builds trust and independence. Meeting needs early reduces clinginess.

✅ Co-sleeping transitions can be gentle and peaceful. Move step by step without trauma or tears.

✅ Night weaning works best with connection. Stay near, soothe with presence, and stay patient.

✅ Dads don’t babysit—dads lead. Real help means engagement and energy.

✅ Self-care fuels capacity. Movement, nutrition, and recovery make calm possible.

✅ Presence > perfection. Toddlers sense your energy more than your words.

🕒 Chapters

00:00 Embracing the Chaos of Parenthood

01:08 The Importance of Mindset in Parenting

03:20 Understanding Child Development and Needs

05:40 The Long-Term Investment of Parenting

08:07 Balancing Self-Care and Family Needs

09:46 Creating a Secure Environment for Children

10:47 Navigating Relationships and Priorities

13:18 The Value of Minimalism in Parenting

15:40 The Evolution of Parenting Practices

17:38 Creating a Safe and Secure Environment for Children

23:29 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents

29:14 Building Strong Foundations for Future Relationships

💬 Memorable Quotes
🗣 “Dads don’t babysit—dads lead. Be the king of your kingdom.”

🗣 “Attachment now creates freedom later.”

🗣 “You can’t spoil a child under three—you can only secure them.”

🗣 “Your calm nervous system is your child’s safety net.”

The topics discussed in our episodes are intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. They should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for any medical concerns or questions.

RESOURCES:

Let us help you in your extraordinary family life journey.

• How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles (+ get THE CHECKLIST: Things We Do Every Day to Raise Well-Adjusted Kids)

• Rachel’s ⁠⁠Must-Read Booklist for Well-Read Moms⁠⁠

• Greg's ⁠⁠Recommended Reading List for Parents & Youth⁠⁠

• Join the 12-Week Habits Challenge for parents of kids 13+

• Don’t miss out on the Extraordinary Parent Mentoring Method class!

• Get Greg’s NEW Formidable Family Man BOOK!

• Get Rachel's ⁠⁠Family Systems & Charts⁠⁠

• Get Rachel’s Extraordinary Family Life Planner

• Follow us on Instagram: ⁠@worldschoolfamily⁠ or ⁠@greg.denning⁠

• Gather with us at the ⁠World School Family (Beach & Farm) Resort⁠ in Portugal