Transforming The Toddler Years- Parents and Educators Raising Calm, Connected, Capable Kids

Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed, Creator of The Collaborative Parenting Methodology
  • 4.9 (74)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Biweekly

Transforming the Toddler Years is the go-to podcast for parents, caregivers, and educators who see tantrums as opportunities for learning. Hosted by Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. early language expert, author, parent educator, and founder of Core4Parenting, each episode blends the science of early childhood and the soul of human connection to raise emotionally intelligent kids. Learn to use intentional language to connect in the chaos and turn tantrums into teachable moments. If you want to raise kids who feel seen, heard, and secure this podcast is for you.

  1. 1d ago

    The 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline

    Join me as I discuss the four C's of collaborative discipline, starting with a positive definition of discipline. I then give an overview of the four intentional steps of collaborative discipline and share a story where I recently practiced this approach. ⁠Ready to Adopt the 4 C’s of Collaborative Discipline?⁠ Grab your free download and embrace connection before correction! Get it ⁠here. Check out Episode #1 of my first series Raising Successful Kids: Skill #1 - Waiting July 28, 2026 Episode 339 The 4 C's of Collaborative Discipline About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠

  2. Jul 21

    Teaching Toddlers the Art of Compromise

    What if the missing piece to raising cooperative kids isn't sharing, but learning how to compromise? In this episode, we explore why compromise is a skill that develops through emotional regulation, not simply expecting children to "work it out." You'll learn how helping children understand another person's perspective creates the foundation for genuine collaboration. We also discuss why jumping in with solutions can actually limit problem-solving and how curiosity can empower children to create their own win-win plans. By teaching the process of compromise from an early age, we help children build lifelong skills in communication, empathy, and healthy conflict resolution. Don't miss a thing! Sign up for my weekly newsletter and get parenting tips, podcast episodes, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox every Monday morning. ⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠ July 21, 2026 Episode 338 Teaching Toddlers the Art of Compromise About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠

  3. Jul 14

    How to Teach Your Toddler Time Management

    What if teaching your toddler to manage time isn't about timers at all, but about giving them the chance to make their own decisions? In this episode, I explain why toddlers are capable of developing time management skills much earlier than most people realize when we shift from directing to guiding. I share practical strategies for setting clear expectations, asking thoughtful questions, and giving children enough time to process and plan their actions before transitions. You'll discover how small language shifts can strengthen executive functioning, build independence, and reduce power struggles around everyday routines like cleaning up before dinner. Plus, I remind parents that time management is just one of several essential life skills—and it's okay to focus on one developmental goal at a time. Don't miss a thing! Sign up for my weekly newsletter and get parenting tips, podcast episodes, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox every Monday morning. Sign up here. July 14, 2026 Episode 337 How to Teach Your Toddler Time Management About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠

  4. Jul 7

    Raising Proud Kids Without Raising Prideful Children

    Can the way we talk about pride shape a child's confidence, resilience, and lifelong motivation? In this episode, we explore the two very different meanings of pride and why helping children develop an internal sense of accomplishment is essential for healthy growth. You'll learn how creating small pockets of child-led time and using intentional language can nurture genuine confidence instead of external validation. We also unpack why phrases like "I'm so proud of you" may have a different impact than you think—and what to say instead to encourage lasting self-belief. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on raising children who are motivated from within and equipped to thrive. Interested in a Toddler Tribe Community full of resources and connection? ⁠DM ⁠me "Community" on ⁠Instagram ⁠so we can connect! July 7, 2026 Episode 336 Raising Proud Kids Without Raising Prideful Children About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

  5. Jun 30

    Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 4 - Questions That Teach Perspective

    What happens when your child has to navigate relationships with people they simply don't click with? In this episode, I take a deeper dive into relational intelligence, exploring how children can learn empathy, compassion, and perspective-taking when faced with challenging interpersonal dynamics. Drawing from my own experience supporting a child through a difficult teacher-student relationship, I share practical strategies for helping children understand that different perspectives and personalities don't make someone "bad"—just different. Discover how teaching perspective-taking today can help your child build stronger, more respectful relationships throughout life.This week’s challenge: When your child faces a challenging relationship or conflict, use “What do you think…” and “I wonder…” questions to help them step into someone else’s perspective and build empathy, respect, and understanding of differences. June 30, 2026 Episode 335 Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 4 - Questions That Teach Perspective About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

  6. Jun 23

    Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 3 - Relational Intelligence

    What if your child's future success depends less on what they know and more on how they connect with others? In this episode of the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World series, I explore relational intelligence and why strong, authentic relationships are essential for learning, resilience, and personal growth. I explain how children develop their understanding of trust, respect, communication, and connection through their earliest relationships—especially those they observe at home. Through practical examples, I highlight the powerful role parents play in modeling healthy interactions and creating a foundation of honesty, respect, and meaningful conversation. Read or revisit the section on the Core Four Connectors in Talk to Them Early and Often and apply the principles of collaborative discipline and relationship-building discussed! June 23, 2026 Episode 334 Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 3 - Relational Intelligence About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

  7. Jun 16

    Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 2 - Cultivating Their Character

    What if the most important thing you can teach your child is who they are, not what they can do? In this episode, I continue the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World series by exploring how self-awareness and identity form the foundation of emotional intelligence and lifelong learning. I explain why children are born with unique temperaments, strengths, and character traits, and how parents can nurture these qualities through observation and intentional language. Tune in to discover how recognizing and affirming your child's natural gifts can strengthen relationships, build character, and support their long-term success. Want to take your parenting journey to another level?⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Book your complimentary connection call now! June 16, 2026 Episode 333 Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 2 - Cultivating Their Character About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠

  8. Jun 9

    Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 1 - Emotional Intelligence

    What if the key to raising resilient, capable kids isn't academic achievement, but emotional intelligence? In this first episode of the Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World, I explore why emotional awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence and ultimately learning itself. Through relatable parenting examples and real-life observations, I explain the difference between reacting to emotions and recognizing, naming, and managing them. You'll learn why toddlers can't develop emotional skills during meltdowns and how calm, connected moments create the best opportunities for teaching emotional awareness. Tune in to discover practical ways to observe, support, and strengthen your child's emotional intelligence from the inside out! Your task for the week: Check out your kids. Watch them in action. Watch them in play. Listen to them as they communicate with you. Have moments where your only goal is to assess their energy and to see where they are on this scale. June 9, 2026 Episode 332 Raising Smart Kids in a Digital World - Part 1 - Emotional Intelligence About Your Host: Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. is a mom or three, early childhood author, parent educator, and founder of⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Core4Parenting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠ A former preschool and kindergarten teacher with degrees in ASL, Linguistics, and Education, she created the Collaborative Parenting Methodology™ to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand the power of intentional language in shaping a child’s identity, confidence, and future success. As host of the top-ranking podcast Transforming the Toddler Years, Cara blends science and soul to show adults how to “talk to kids before they can talk back,” turning tantrums into teachable moments and everyday challenges into opportunities for connection. She is also the author of the new book ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠T⁠alk to Them Early and Often⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠

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Transforming the Toddler Years is the go-to podcast for parents, caregivers, and educators who see tantrums as opportunities for learning. Hosted by Cara Tyrrell, M.Ed. early language expert, author, parent educator, and founder of Core4Parenting, each episode blends the science of early childhood and the soul of human connection to raise emotionally intelligent kids. Learn to use intentional language to connect in the chaos and turn tantrums into teachable moments. If you want to raise kids who feel seen, heard, and secure this podcast is for you.

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