• Helping Toddlers with Big Emotions in Public
    Jun 9 2025

    Handling Toddler Meltdowns: What Pancakes Taught Me About Emotions

    Heather Schalk shares insights and strategies on managing toddler meltdowns using a relatable pancake breakfast scenario that was a true story! She discusses the importance of modeling calm behavior, recognizing frustration tolerance, and teaching toddlers self-regulation techniques. Heather invites listeners to a free guide and class recording: The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast

    -Introduction and Overview
    -Free Guide
    -The Pancake Incident
    -Modeling Frustration Management
    -Conclusion and Free Guide

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.

    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    10 Min.
  • From Throwing to Lining Up: What Your Child’s Play Is Really Telling You with Ruth Vercoe
    May 7 2025

    There may just be a method to the madness after all!

    Our toddlers are constantly learning about the world around them. And the main way in which they learn is through play and play schemas.

    From throwing things and ripping pages out of books to tossing all their toys out of the bin and lining their cars up in a certain way, our toddlers are naturally moving through phases that help them better understand how the world works.

    Though it can be frustrating for us as parents, our children aren't just trying to annoy us but are, in fact, simply learning.

    Join Heather and Ruth in this mind-blowing episode where the method behind the madness is finally revealed and play schemas are explained!

    If your toddler has a knack for throwing, tearing, ripping, dropping, or climbing, then this is one episode you won't want to miss!

    About Ruth: Ruth Vercoe is a teacher-turned-mum on a mission to demystify child’s play through understanding play schemas. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why is my child doing that?”—whether it’s throwing soft toys, hiding stones around the house, or lining up crayons—you’re certainly not alone.


    It wasn’t until Ruth was in the thick of parenting that she realized she had entered this journey with an unfair advantage. Her unique edge was a deep understanding of play schemas—how they show up in young children and how to work with them, rather than against them. Now, she’s passionate about helping other parents gain that same insight.

    Ruth comes to this first and foremost as a wife and mum to two amazing young boys.

    She brings over 15 years of experience working with children, with the majority of her teaching career focused on junior-aged students. A lifelong learner, Ruth holds a Bachelor of Education, a postgraduate diploma in Special Education, a Certificate in Digital and Online Learning, and a Master’s in Education—not to mention a deep love of the outdoors.

    Connect with Ruth on Instagram @Play_Schemas; on her website, playschemas.com; or on her podcast "Demystifying Child's Play"!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Ready to get your toddler to listen in 2 seconds?

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children who listen in 2 seconds.

    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @twinmom_roadmap
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    56 Min.
  • Two Secrets to Enjoying the Toddler Years
    Apr 30 2025

    Two Secrets to Enjoying the Toddler Years

    In this episode, we reveal the two key factors that can help parents actually enjoy the toddler years:
    1. addressing shame and
    2. letting go of perfectionism.

    We discuss how these issues often go unnoticed but heavily impact our parenting experience.

    There's also an exciting announcement about the upcoming Free Class and Guide: 'Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Workshop' on May 8th, which offers practical solutions for 7 common toddler struggles. You can get it here.

    Learn about the Happy Toddler Confident Parent cohort starting in mid-May and how it aims to provide a supportive community and expert advice across various parenting challenges. Join us to understand how to shift towards a growth mindset and find joy in the beautiful imperfections of parenting, here.

    00:00 Introduction: Enjoying the Toddler Years
    00:29 Upcoming Workshop Announcement
    01:11 Common Toddler Struggles
    02:16 Understanding Shame in Parenting
    03:28 The Myth of Perfect Parenting
    08:32 Perfectionism vs. Shame
    09:41 Impact on Parenting Joy
    21:43 Breaking Free from Shame and Perfectionism
    23:31 Expert Support and Resources
    27:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like hitting... I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's HERE!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.

    • Sing up for 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges" Book Launch Special for $1.99 here!
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    28 Min.
  • Understanding Toddler Tantrums: Real-Life Stories + What Helped
    Apr 23 2025

    Understanding Toddler Tantrums: Real Life Stories + What Helped

    Welcome to the Toddler Toolkit podcast! In this episode, we delve deep into the world of toddler tantrums, exploring not just the outward emotional outbursts but the deeper unmet needs and expectations behind them.

    Host Heather shares real-life tantrum stories from her own family to illustrate key parenting concepts such as the 'picture perfect mindset,'
    and the importance of letting toddlers feel their emotions fully. From a pizza meltdown to a playground blowup, Heather offers valuable insights and strategies to help parents navigate these challenging moments and foster emotional regulation skills in their toddlers.

    Plus, learn about the upcoming 'Happy Toddler, Confident Parent' cohort, designed to give parents the tools to better connect with and support their children.

    00:00 Introduction to Toddler Tantrums
    01:00 The Pizza Tantrum: Picture Perfect Mindset
    06:02 The Bubble Blower Incident: Frustration Unveiled
    10:27 The Pre-K School Visit Tantrum: Transitions and Expectations
    19:12 The Playground Meltdown: Overstimulation and Regulation

    Heather announced her upcoming co-authored book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges,' which offers practical wisdom from experts on navigating challenging family situations: https://www.heatherschalkparenting.com/signup-list-for-book

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like separation anxiety, I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's Coming Soon! So STAY TUNED!

    And be sure to grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children.

    • Sing up for 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges" Book Launch Special for $1.99 here!
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    25 Min.
  • Breast Milk, Bottles & Burnout: Surviving Baby Feeding Overwhelm with Roxie Alsruhe
    Apr 16 2025

    Whether you're a brand new parent or a veteran, keeping track of a baby's feeding schedule is not easy!

    Roxie Alsruhe discovered this first-hand while caring for her newborn son. When their baby started losing weight instead of gaining, Roxie and her wife did everything they could to help him get the nourishment he needed.

    Through the many sleepless nights and tiring days, Roxie kept careful track of each and every feeding, bottle, and expiration date.

    But when it started to feel overwhelming and downright impossible to do, Roxie began to wonder why something hadn't been created to help keep track of it all.

    And with that, Roxie set out to create it herself!

    Join Heather and her guest in this insightful interview as Roxie shares all about her parenting journey, how she got the idea to create the HoopDee app, and what this resource does to help all parents better care for their babies and beyond.

    If you're into learning about new ways to make your parenting journey easier, smoother, and less chaotic, then this is an episode you'll definitely want to tune into!

    About Roxie: Roxie Alsruhe (pronounced Als-roo) is the founder of HoopDee. HoopDee offers a free app that manages and tracks breast milk and baby formula so new parents never waste a drop. In the summer of 2025, HoopDee will launch a line of patent-pending products that automate the milk managing process even more and enhance your app experience. Roxie is a mom to a sweet 15 month old boy and two senior rescue pups. She is based out of Baltimore, Maryland. She and Heather met in 2nd grade at Cub Run Elementary in Centreville, VA.

    Connect with Roxie on her website, getHoopDee.com, or @getHoopDee on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Youtube!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Ready to get your toddler to listen in 2 seconds?

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children who listen in 2 seconds.

    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @twinmom_roadmap
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    39 Min.
  • This One Thing Shapes Your Toddler’s Behavior and Self-Esteem
    Apr 9 2025

    The One Thing That Shapes Toddler Behavior and Self-Esteem

    In this episode, we explore the key factor that shapes your toddler's behavior and self-esteem - your language and reactions. We'll discuss the concept of the toddler reactivity loop, how to set the stage for better behaviors, and why the attention you give is the attention you get back. Learn practical tips on redirecting rather than reacting and how to use positive praise to improve your toddler's behavior. Find out how your words and tone can shape your child's self-image and behavior over time. Plus, get a sneak peek into my upcoming book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family,' launching on May 8th.

    Heather announced her upcoming co-authored book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges,' which offers practical wisdom from experts on navigating challenging family situations: https://www.heatherschalkparenting.com/signup-list-for-book

    00:00 Introduction: The Key to Shaping Toddler Behavior
    00:55 Setting the Stage for a Positive Day
    01:39 Understanding the Toddler Reactivity Loop
    05:28 The Power of Positive Attention
    10:45 The Impact of Language and Reactions
    23:34 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like separation anxiety, I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's Coming Soon! So STAY TUNED!

    And be sure to grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Ready to get your toddler to listen in 2 seconds?

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children who listen in 2 seconds.

    • Sing up for 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges" Book Launch Special for $1.99 here!
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    25 Min.
  • The Toddler Discipline Script That Backfires & What to Do Instead
    Apr 2 2025

    The Toddler Discipline Script That Backfires & What to Do Instead


    In this episode, we're diving into the shortcomings of widely shared toddler discipline advice, particularly the 'validation boundary method.'

    Learn why popular scripts like 'It's okay to be mad, but we don't hit' can backfire, reinforcing unwanted behaviors and leading to parental burnout.

    We'll explore eight key reasons why this approach is ineffective and offer alternative strategies that focus on proactive, compassionate, and effective discipline techniques that are just a small tweak to change that could make a huge impact. Discover the importance of clear modeling, co-regulation, and addressing sensory needs to help toddlers manage their emotions constructively. Also, get a sneak peek into our upcoming book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family,' and how it can be a valuable resource for mindful parenting.

    Heather announced her upcoming co-authored book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges,' which offers practical wisdom from experts on navigating challenging family situations: https://www.heatherschalkparenting.com/signup-list-for-book

    00:00 Introduction to Toddler Discipline Issues

    00:46 The Validation Boundary Method Explained

    02:06 Why the Script Fails: Eight Reasons

    07:55 Upcoming Book Announcement

    09:41 Empathy and Emotional Attunement

    16:20 The Importance of Visual and Physical Cues

    18:29 Parental Burnout and Final Thoughts

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like separation anxiety, I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's Coming Soon! So STAY TUNED!

    And be sure to grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Ready to get your toddler to listen in 2 seconds?

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children who listen in 2 seconds.

    • Sing up for 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges" Book Launch Special for $1.99 here!
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    22 Min.
  • Finding a Good Fit Babysitter for your Toddler
    Mar 26 2025

    How to Find the Perfect Babysitter for Your Toddler


    In this episode, Heather shares valuable insights on finding a babysitter that suits your toddler's temperament and aligns with your parenting style. She discusses emotional fit, parenting style alignment, and offers tips on managing time duration and transitions. Heather shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of interview questions, setting expectations, and trusting your intuition.

    She also introduces her upcoming co-authored book, 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges,' which offers practical wisdom from experts on navigating challenging family situations: https://www.heatherschalkparenting.com/signup-list-for-book

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:59 Emotional Fit and Parenting Style Alignment

    10:35 Time, Duration and Separation Tips

    16:40 Logistical Fit and Final Thoughts

    21:21 Conclusion and Encouragement

    "If you’re struggling with toddler tantrums and behaviors like separation anxiety, I have a free guide for you! It’s called The Tantrum and Behavior Guide: 7 Toddler Struggles and How to Solve Them Fast—It's Coming Soon! So STAY TUNED!

    And be sure to grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Ready to get your toddler to listen in 2 seconds?

    Heather has her M.Ed, and a proud Twin Mama of busy toddlers. You might've tried advice tailored for one child, but that's not our journey, right? With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she's seen it all – from toddlers to teenagers in the classroom. Now, as a parent to toddlers, she's experiencing the flip side of the coin. She's discovered a toolbox to help parents with everything toddler times two!

    Let's unlock the secrets to understanding toddler behavior, preventing meltdowns, and raising intuitive, resilient children who listen in 2 seconds.

    • Sing up for 'The Perfectly Imperfect Family: Real Solutions for Mindful Parents Navigating Today’s Biggest Challenges" Book Launch Special for $1.99 here!
    • Check out the Transform Tantrums: A Listening Toddler In 7 Days mini-course!
    • Grab the 3 Steps to a Calm, Kind, and Caring Toddler Free Class and guide!
    • Join the Toddler Mom Community
    • Follow me on Instagram @heatherschalkparenting
    • Watch the YouTube channel
    • Check out the blog
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    23 Min.