Why Your Toddler Resists Everything (And What to Do About It)

Toddlers Made Easy with Dr Cathryn · Dr. Cathryn

October 22, 202510m 55s

Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (rss.art19.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.

Show Notes

Struggling with toddler resistance? This episode breaks down why your child says "no" to everything and how to work with their natural instincts instead of against them.

What You'll Learn

What the "You-Can't-Make-Me" reflex is and why it's actually healthy
Why toddler brains react with automatic resistance
Common triggers (commands, transitions, feeling rushed)
What makes things worse (power struggles, taking it personally)
Practical strategies for daily routines

Key Takeaways

The reflex is developmental, not defiance
Invite cooperation instead of demanding it
Connection is the strongest antidote to resistance
Stay calm and confident—you're the CEO
Give choices to preserve their sense of control

Quick Tips

Replace commands with invitations
Give transition warnings
Pause when resistance peaks
Use collaborative language
Fill their connection tank with one-on-one time

Resources

Toddlers Made Easy

Help! My Child Will Only Poop In A Diaper Waitlist

Toddlers Made Easy, the book