Decoding Toddler Behavior: A Guide for Parents

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, host Ann McKitrick dives into a question many parents rarely pause to consider: “What do you really want?” Amid the demands of daily life, parents can lose sight of their own desires and needs. Ann shares insights on reconnecting with yourself and introduces a simple exercise to help clarify and prioritize what truly brings joy and fulfillment. Tune in to explore how reclaiming your wants can enhance not only your well-being but also your parenting journey.Download 20 Ways to Power Your Parenting and Reclaim Your Life and get started today! https://www.annmckitrick.com/

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, I’m talking with early childhood expert Dan Wuori, author of The Daycare Myth. Dan brings a fresh perspective on the world of daycare, breaking down the misconceptions and explaining why every environment—whether at home or in childcare—shapes a child’s early learning. We chat about how to spot high-quality childcare, why nurturing interactions matter so much for little ones’ brain development, and the challenges early educators face in a broken system. If you’re a parent, educator, or just passionate about giving young children the best start, this conversation is for you! Here's the show notes where you'll find a link to purchase Dan's new book, The Daycare Myth.

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, Ann McKitrick welcomes fitness expert Desi Bartlett to discuss how new moms can find strength and balance during the early years of parenting. With insights from her work with celebrities like Ashley Tisdale and Kate Hudson, Desi shares practical tips for incorporating fitness into your daily routine—even with a baby or toddler in tow. Tune in to hear Desi's wisdom on juggling motherhood and self-care, the connection between mental and physical health, and how to stay strong through life’s transitions. Click here for links to Desi's books, Your Strong Sexy Pregnancy and Total Body Beautiful: Secrets to Looking and Feeling Your Best After Age 35.

In this episode Ann McKitrick sits down with Audrey Rowland, founder of Greenspace Learning and president of the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children, to explore the biases we often hold against childhood. Audrey shares her insights from her powerful South by Southwest presentation, "Confronting Our Bias Against Childhood," and helps us understand why we sometimes feel pressured to make our children act beyond their age to meet adult expectations. This episode will challenge your perspective, freeing you from the need to rush your child's development, and encourage you to celebrate who they are in the moment. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom about honoring childhood and trusting your child's unique journey. Click here for the show notes, where you can learn more about Audrey. We've got lots of resources for you at Nurtured Noggins. Check it out!

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, Kelly Coleman, a feature film executive turned author and disability advocate. Kelly shares her personal parenting journey raising a child with disabilities, offering invaluable insights and practical advice for parents who are navigating similar experiences. Ann and Kelley discuss everything from the emotional challenges of receiving a diagnosis, finding community support, and managing the day-to-day responsibilities of caregiving. Kelley also provides helpful strategies, including how to prepare for travel with a disabled child and ways to educate others about disabilities. Tune in to hear Kelley’s inspiring story and her hopeful message for parents of disabled children: you are exactly the parent your child needs.

In this episode of Parenting in the First Three Years, host Ann McKitrick talks with Dr. Joel Warsh, a holistic pediatrician and author of Parenting at Your Child's Pace. They discuss practical tips for preventing and managing common childhood illnesses like the flu, colds, and RSV, especially as kids return to school and daycare. Dr. Warsh shares insights on boosting children's immunity, the role of natural remedies, and when it's necessary to visit a doctor. Tune in to learn how to keep your little ones healthy during the cold and flu season! Here's the show notes. Get Dr. Warsh's book, Parenting at a Child's Pace, The Integrative Pediatrician's Guide to the First Three Years

Did you know your baby is born ready and equipped to connect with you? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful memory of caring for a tiny foster baby named Desmond. The experience brought me back to the awe-inspiring abilities of newborns that often go unnoticed! Join me as I explore three things that your newborn instinctively knows how to do from the moment they're born. Discover how their scent triggers deep emotional responses, the significance of their gaze, and their incredible ability to learn and imitate from day one. Plus, I'll debunk four common myths about newborns that new parents often hear. Tune in to learn more about these tiny wonders and how to best care for them during those sweet early days.   Links How to Give Your Newborn a Bath Go to Nurtured Noggins for lots more about your newborn!

Do you feel like you're the one responsible for making sure your baby meets all their milestones at the right time? That it's a reflection on you as a parent if they're not talking, walking, or playing with others at the same time as other kids? If you answered yes, then take heart - we've got great news for you! In this episode, Rae Pica, a renowned expert in the early childhood community helps debunk some of the most persistent myths about early childhood development, particularly the belief that "earlier is better." Together, we explore the natural process of child development and emphasize the crucial role of play in fostering healthy growth. And most importantly, the importance of letting go and trusting that healthy growth and development is happening, even if it's a different pace for your child. Here's a link to Rae Pica's free Resource Library Here the show notes!

What are some creative things you can add to your daily routines to support your toddler a little later when they start big school? In this enlightening episode, we welcome back Gabrielle Holt, Infant Toddler Program Coordinator at Montessori Country Day School in Houston, Texas. Gabby is a trainer for Montessori teachers across the country and works as a research assistant at the Lilac Lab at the University of Texas at Dallas. Join us as we dive into the world of early literacy and explore practical tips for parents to foster learning at home. Topics Discussed:    Defining Early Literacy The Power of Storytelling Engaging in Storytelling Early Literacy Activities Supporting Writing Skills Practical Tips for Parents Here's the show notes where you'll find lots more helpful information!

How can understanding your child's temperament help you tailor your responses to their behavior, and what specific strategies can you use to support a child with a more reactive or less adaptive temperament? Reflective parenting is about observing, understanding, and thoughtfully responding to your child's needs. By using the Reflective Cycle, parents can foster a nurturing environment that supports their child's emotional and social development. Remember, the key is patience, observation, and maintaining a calm presence. In this episode, we explore a powerful approach to parenting called the Reflective Cycle. Using an engaging story from a wonderful little school, the Infant Development Center, we delve into practical strategies to support your child's social-emotional development. Here's the show notes where you can find links mentioned in the podcast.