Toddlers Made Easy is a short, 10 minute, bite-sized podcast that gives you the insight, tools, and confidence you need to not only handle anything toddler-related thrown your way —but prevent problem behaviors before they start. Toddlers Made Easy is hosted by Dr. Cathryn, a nationally recognized pediatrician with more than 30 years of experience and a mother of 4.
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Growing a family and a business with a Biblical worldview| Leading your family and your team with intentionality and wisdom
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Casual readings of great children’s books. Familiar recordings open toddlers to engagement and listening. My 2 yr old daughter, Escher, reads along and adds in her comments along the way. Cover art photo provided by Annie Spratt on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt
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Teach Your Littles At Home | Homeschool Preschool Activities for Busy Moms of Toddlers and Preschoolers
Laurin Brainard | Curriculum Creator and Owner at The Primary Brain
Do you wish there was a simple way to teach your 2 to 5-year-old children at home while they play? Are you looking for a simple roadmap you can follow to help guide you in creating the perfect learning opportunities that will fit into your busy days as a mom? Welcome! I’m Laurin Brainard from The Primary Brain and I am so glad you are here at Teach Your Littles At Home! I know how it feels to have little ones running around the house while caring for a new baby. I am always trying to find th ...
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Welcome! We are Chef Fer Candil and Pediatrician Marta Katalinas, coming together to bring you tips on tricks on how to cook good, healthy food for your toddlers and babies in under 30 minutes!! Please join us as we embark on this journey together, and don't be shy to send any ideas or comments you might have! From our homes to yours, Marta and Fer.
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Jelly and Gummy love to tell stories. They tell us stories that help us learn and talk about how we feel, about who we are, and about intelligent and strong people that have helped shape history and can inspire who we want to be.
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Me ramblin. This is a podcast about me and my life and my children and my husband. Just what I go through day-to-day basically at audio diary. I have no a hundred percent if interest in people listening to this but I'd like to just put that out there as a way to vent as a way to express myself.You will also hear me and my babies pillow talking before bed. That's when Charlotte has her bright ideas.lol. I think it be fun to listen to this mess in the future.
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In this episode, we explore the second pillar of the Proverbs 31 lifestyle: being profitable. Discover why the desire for profit is part of God's design and how being motivated by profit biblically differs from greed. Learn how the Proverbs 31 woman's approach to business and profit should guide Christian moms in their work. 🎧 Episode Highlights: -…
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In this episode of "Toddlers Made Easy," we're diving into the EASY method—a transformative technique to help you navigate toddler tantrums with grace and effectiveness. Inspired by my own experiences as a pediatrician and a mom, EASY is all about creating a calm and connected approach to those challenging moments. Let’s break it down: **E**valuate…
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Today we are talking all about how to make learning part of your daily routine with your little ones. Whether you are doing dishes, folding laundry, or out for a walk, there are so many opportunities for learning in these tiny moments of our day. Connect with Laurin in our Teach Your Littles at Home Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/grou…
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In this episode, we are talking about three transformational systems that have revolutionized how I manage my home with 6 kids while running a successful business. Whether you're juggling toddlers in diapers or teenagers going in all directions, these systems will help you create more order, build character in your children, and find the peace you'…
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Join Dr. Cathryn in this episode as she guides you through handling tough toddler moments with calmness and empathy. Learn to see past the surface behavior and understand your child's emotions. For example, if your toddler says "I hate the baby", instead of ignoring these feelings, acknowledge and understand them. Think about how you feel when some…
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Today we are talking about how to introduce Bible studies into your weekly routine with your preschoolers. You’ll learn 12 activities that you can rotate through each week to help give your children a greater understanding of the Bible. Links mentioned: The Beginners Bible: https://amzn.to/4ht1YEi Old Testament Bible Lessons Bundle: https://theprim…
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Today I am getting real with y'all about those seasons when productivity just isn't happening the way we want it to. I shared my own experience this past week of needing to reset after traveling + 3 unexpected snow days for the kids and how it affected my routines, energy, and mindset. What I want you to remember: - There's a big difference between…
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Power struggles with toddlers can feel exhausting—but they don’t have to be inevitable. In this episode, I’ll share simple, big-hearted ways to prevent battles before they start. Learn how to give your child a sense of control, offer the right kind of choices, and use playfulness to shift the dynamic. Plus, I’ll answer a listener’s question about b…
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Today, we’re diving into an important topic: five essential preschool skills to master before starting kindergarten. I hope you enjoy learning with us as you play at home today! ⭐️ Download your FREE Preschool Activities Bonus Bundle: https://theprimarybrain.com/menu/podcast-bonus-bundle Episode Links: 11 – Fine Motor Skills: https://podcasts.apple…
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📝 Episode Overview: In Part 2 of "Her Energy for Productivity," we are continuing our discussion of the 8 essential energy habits that help Christian women steward their God-given resources well. This episode covers habits 5-8: nutrition, rest, self-awareness, and supplementation. You'll get practical biblical wisdom on how to maintain your energy …
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In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn dives into why toddlers hit, kick, or bite and how to respond with calm, big-hearted strategies. Learn the two-part approach to managing aggression: focus on safety in the moment and teach better responses later. Discover simple ways to prevent aggression, like prepping for playdates, staying tuned…
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We’re getting ready to celebrate 100 days of preschool learning! On today’s episode, I will help you create a plan to celebrate the 100th day of school in your home. Links mentioned: Grab your 100th Day of School Unit (Use code 100Days for 30% off): https://theprimarybrain.etsy.com/listing/1860811227/100th-day-of-preschool-activities-100 Use the co…
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In this episode, we dive into the biblical perspective on productivity and energy management, sharing the first four of eight essential habits that help maintain the energy needed to live a fruitful life. The Proverbs 31 woman intentionally "dressed herself with strength" and we as modern Christian women can do the same. Key Points Discussed: The d…
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Podcast Episode Show Notes: Toddler Sleep Q&A In this episode of Toddlers Made Easy, Dr. Cathryn answers some of the most common sleep challenges parents face with toddlers and preschoolers. Topics covered: A 22-month-old who won’t sleep without holding a parent’s hand A 3-year-old resisting bedtime and asking to go back downstairs A 5-year-old str…
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In this episode, I’m sharing 10 of my favorite indoor gross motor games for kids to keep on hand for the days you need to stay indoors. Links Mentioned: Episode 5: 6 Skill Areas to Teach Your Toddlers: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teach-your-littles-at-home-homeschool-preschool-activities/id1763629783?i=1000668890897 Cars Toddler Activitie…
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🎧 Episode Description: In this powerful episode, we dive into the first pillar of the Proverbs 31 lifestyle - productivity. Building on last week's foundation of glorifying God, we explore what it truly means to live a life characterized by producing rather than consuming. Through a detailed study of Proverbs 31:11-27, we uncover how this ancient w…
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In today's episode, Dr. Cathryn is tackling a question many parents grapple with: "Am I expecting too much from my toddler?" From tantrums to transitions, we’ll explore how adjusting expectations to match your toddler’s developmental stage can make parenting smoother and more enjoyable. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why toddlers aren’t mini ad…
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Happy 2025! In this first episode of the new year, I'm sharing 7 things you can do to set the tone for a wonderful year of learning with your little ones. Links Mentioned: Download your FREE toddler curriculum map: https://theprimarybrain.com/menu/podcast-toddler-curriculum-map Episode 2: Create Your Daily Routine: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/pod…
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In this vulnerable and foundational episode of the LeadHerShip podcast, Brittney Howard opens up about her journey from being a "fangirl" of the Proverbs 31 woman to understanding and living out biblical womanhood in modern life. She addresses the core foundation of what it means to be a Proverbs 31 woman while sharing her personal struggles with i…
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Dr Cathryn is tackling a topic that might seem simple but is actually a big deal for little ones: understanding time. Hear about Marcus, a 3.5-year-old who loves the swings but struggles when it's time to leave. Why? Because his mom is giving a warning like this: “We’re leaving in 5 minutes.” Kids can't see or touch time, so they don't understand i…
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Today, we’re diving into bedtime struggles and simple tweaks to make evenings smoother for everyone. What You’ll Learn: Why Bedtime Feels So Hard for Toddlers Separation anxiety, big imaginations, and FOMO are just a few reasons your child resists bedtime. Understanding these struggles is the first step to solving them. How to Build a Calming Bedti…
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Tired of time-outs and tantrums? In this episode, I’ll share why punishment doesn’t work and what to do instead so that you can handle tricky moments with calm and confidence. Why Punishment Fails: It stops behavior in the moment but hurts self-esteem and creates fear. What Toddlers Need: They’re not being “bad”—they’re still learning to manage big…
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On today’s final episode of 2024, I’m sharing what we will be doing for New Years and I hope it helps give you ideas for how to ring in the New Year with your little ones—without losing sleep. Links mentioned: New Years Toddler Unit: https://theprimarybrain.etsy.com/listing/1644883361/new-years-toddler-activities-tot-school Confetti Balloons: https…
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In this episode, Dr. Cathryn dives into three common toddler parenting challenges with big-hearted, practical solutions: Rudeness: Learn how to validate your toddler’s feelings without reinforcing rude behavior, teach social alternatives like waving instead of talking, and defuse attention-seeking behavior at home while modeling kindness and autono…
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In this episode, you can grab 10 simple Christmas activities you can do with your kids using items you already have at home. Links mentioned: Gingerbread Playdough Recipe: https://theprimarybrain.com/christmas/2018/12/11/Homemade-No-Bake-Christmas-Playdough/ Salt Dough Ornaments Blog Post: https://theprimarybrain.com/christmas/2019/12/04/Salt-Dough…
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Terrible Twos? Try Terribly Important Twos Welcome to Toddlers Made Easy with Dr. Cathryn! In this episode, we reframe the "terrible twos" as the "terribly important twos," highlighting why these challenging years are foundational for your child's emotional and mental health. What You'll Learn: Why toddlers are still big babies inside, needing gent…
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On today’s episode, I’m sharing a few December traditions that our family enjoys each year. I hope you feel inspired to kick off the holiday season with some fun new traditions of your own! Making gingerbread houses, getting a real tree, making ornaments, and a Christmas book advent are just a few of the topics you will enjoy. Links mentioned: Salt…
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Fewer, Shorter, and Way Easier Tantrums Tantrums are a normal and healthy part of toddlerhood! In this episode, we explore why tantrums happen and what they’re not. They aren’t signs of bad parenting, manipulation, or a lack of discipline—they’re your toddler’s way of expressing emotions they don’t yet have the skills to handle. We’ll share practic…
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Have you ever wondered what materials you need on hand to teach your child? Whether you are a homeschool preschool family or just starting to think about what to work on with your child, an activity basket will help you stay organized and make learning fun for your littles! So today on the show, I’m sharing all my tips and tricks for creating an ac…
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In this episode, Brittney shares big news about the future of LeadHerShip podcast and tackles the lie that says you have to choose between business success and being a good wife/mother. BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Starting in 2025, LeadHerShip is becoming your weekly guide to being a modern Proverbs 31 woman - someone who's present with her family, purposefu…
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Struggling to set boundaries without caving or feeling that familiar pang of guilt? In this episode, Dr. Cathryn explores the art of big-hearted parenting—where firm boundaries meet empathy and understanding. Discover how acknowledging your child’s feelings and using clear, compassionate communication can turn even the toughest moments into powerfu…
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What is the true meaning of why we celebrate Thanksgiving? Today we are talking about ways to make Thanksgiving memorable and special for your little ones. I’m sharing 5 ways to make Thanksgiving special with a few ideas from our own family traditions that we share each year. I hope you feel motivated to try a few new things this year! Links to Tha…
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Potty training is a huge milestone—but knowing when to start can feel overwhelming. Is your child ready? And how do you even tell? Today, we’re breaking it all down so you can start with confidence. What You’ll Learn: The truth about readiness: It’s not just about age—physical, emotional, and even parental readiness play a role. Key signs to watch …
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014 | 10 Simple Math Activities for Teaching Colors and Numbers for Toddlers and Homeschool Preschool
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In this episode, we are talking about 10 simple math activities you can do with your little ones to work on color names, number names, and counting using items you already have around the house. Links Mentioned: Numbers Playdough Book: https://theprimarybrain.etsy.com/listing/1796174894/numbers-to-120-playdough-mats-play-dough FREE Playdough Colors…
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🤗 Behind the Scenes of "Toddlers Made Easy" with Dr. Cathryn In this special episode, pediatrician and mom of 4, Dr. Cathryn, gives an exclusive look into her brand new book, "Toddlers Made Easy". Discover: • Dr. Cathryn's unique perspective as both a pediatrician and parent • Why she wrote this book to provide quick, actionable tips for busy paren…
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🍽️ Ever made the "perfect" meal for your toddler only to watch it land on the floor? In this episode, pediatrician Dr. Cathryn shares why toddler eating patterns are totally normal, even when they feel chaotic. Key takeaways: • Growth explains everything: Children's growth slows down naturally after year one. Some days they'll eat everything, other…
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In this episode, I share my favorite ways to teach alphabet activities to your toddlers and preschoolers. Links Mentioned: Foam Alphabet Letters: https://amzn.to/4eU8Fh8 Bath Paints: https://amzn.to/3NhE8yg Tub of Magnetic Letters: https://amzn.to/3zS9wAd Alphabet Cookie Cutters: https://amzn.to/3YfCvaL Letter Stamps: https://amzn.to/3BtnGrV Grab y…
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In this episode, Dr. Cathryn discusses how to avoid raising an entitled child and instead foster resilience. She begins by explaining the characteristics of entitled behavior in children while clarifying that normal toddler self-centeredness is different from entitlement. Dr. Cathryn provides real-life scenarios to illustrate entitled behavior befo…
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Today on the show, we are chatting about how you can create your own fine motor tool bin to have on hand any time you want to work on fine motor skills with your children. If you want to learn more about what fine motor skills are, make sure to listen to episode 11. Links mentioned: Dot markers: https://amzn.to/47YDAH9 Lacing cards: https://amzn.to…
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Ever find yourself starting calm, only to snap after your toddler ignores you again and again? It happens to the best of us—but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Dr. Cathryn is here to show you how to break the calm-snap cycle and manage tough toddler moments with patience and connection. **3 Key Points to Break the Calm-Snap Cycle:** ✔️ The Power …
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Have you ever wondered, what are fine motor skills? In this episode, we are talking about what fine motor skills are and how you can help your child develop strong fine motor skills. Connect with Laurin in our Teach Your Littles at Home Facebook community. Grab even more activities on The Primary Brain Blog. We're also on Instagram if you want to D…
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Is bedtime becoming a nightly struggle? If your child seems to be battling sleep, it’s not because they’re being difficult. In this episode, we dive into the real reasons kids resist bedtime and how to make evenings smoother for everyone. Key takeaways: ✔️ Separation Anxiety: Toddlers often feel anxious about being apart from you at bedtime, which …
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Have you found the magic of a sensory bin? Today we are talking about the ways to add learning components to your sensory bins to help your children learn a variety of skills as they play. The best part is, they will have so much fun, that they won’t even realize they are learning! You can listen to the first 3 episodes in this four-part series: Ep…
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You ever wonder what your kids will think about your network marketing business when they grow up? I always do 😂 One of the things I LOVE about network marketing is the opportunity to earn incredible experiences and trips!! We just got back from dreamy Maui, Hawaii! We were there for 10 days, and although I had only earned this trip for myself and …
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Ever wonder why your toddler keeps hitting, even though you’ve told them it’s not okay a million times? In this episode, I explain the real reasons behind toddler hitting and how you can respond without losing your cool. It’s all about guiding them with kindness, understanding, and big-hearted boundaries. Here are a few of the must-know insights fr…
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Today is part 3 of our sensory bin series. We are chatting about my favorite ways to set your little ones up for success as you first begin using a sensory bin. Links Mentioned: Sterilite Clip Boxes: https://amzn.to/3AvgxXQ *This Amazon link is a commissionable link. This means I make a small commission when you purchase with this link, without any…
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In this episode of *Toddlers Made Easy*, we dive into the art of setting firm yet loving boundaries with toddlers using the big-hearted approach. We explore how being kind and empathetic doesn’t mean being permissive, and how holding strong limits helps children feel safe and guided. Through real-life examples, like a store meltdown over a Snickers…
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On the show, we are chatting about why you should use sensory bins with your preschoolers. In case you missed part one of this sensory bin series, listen to episode 7: What is a Sensory Bin? Connect with Laurin in our Teach Your Littles at Home Facebook community. Grab even more activities on The Primary Brain Blog. We're also on Instagram if you w…
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In this episode of the Toddlers Made Easy podcast, Dr. Cathryn explores how to offer choices to toddlers in a way that empowers them without overwhelming them. She discusses the importance of allowing toddlers to make decisions, which helps foster independence, reduce power struggles, and build confidence. However, Dr. Cathryn also highlights when …
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Today we are diving into a 4-part series all about sensory bins. On today’s show I’m sharing what sensory bins are and how to put together a sensory bin using materials you likely have on hand. Links Mentioned: Sterilite Clip Boxes: https://amzn.to/3AvgxXQ Liquid Washable Paint: https://amzn.to/4czBpKL *These Amazon links are commissionable links. …
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