The Parenting Clubhouse Podcast

We all feel it. Christmas is right around the corner. You see it everywhere. The ads, the to-dos, the cleaning, the lists, all the hype.  But what is it that you want to get out of this holiday season? What is it that you want to give to your kids this holiday season?  Today on the show I'm sharing some of my personal parenting philosophy with you. I'm sharing what I want to teach my kids this holiday season, the meaning I want them to get out of it, so that it's not just another time, another season, another holiday that comes and goes like a flash.  So let's talk about gratitude, gifts, and giving, shall we? Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares her personal parenting philosophy for this holiday season and what she wants to cultivate for her family; She explains how you can teach your child to have a heart of gratitude; and  She shares a memory of giving from her own childhood and how she is passing that down to her kids.  SHOW NOTES What do you want this holiday season? If it's peace, if it's clarity, if it's a happier mama life, I've got your back. I'm still offering one-on-one 30-minute coaching calls, so if you need help with potty training, I've got you. If you need help with the chaos right before dinner time, I'm here for you. If you need just one next step to have less yelling at home, I'm your person. Pick a date and time and let's chat. www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

I'm getting a little personal on today's show as I share with you why I haven't potty trained my two (almost three) year-old yet.  But the reason why I'm sharing this stuff with you is not to justify myself, but to show you how to not feel guilty about your own potty training decisions, or any parenting decisions for that matter.  Sometimes we need a reminder that we're the parents of our own kids here, and that when it comes to our kids, we - - YOU - - are the best experts.  Now come into my head and hear about my personal life and the reasons why I haven't started potty training. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the three main reasons for why she hasn't potty trained her daughter yet;  She explains why she doesn't feel guilty about not starting potty training yet; and  She walks you through how to not feel guilty when it comes to your own potty training and parenting decisions.  SHOW NOTES If you are struggling with potty training or in any area related to parenting toddlers, I invite you to schedule a one-on-one consult call with me so that you don't have to do this parenting thing alone and so that you can get to your solutions fast. www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme.   Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Reactive parenting. Maybe most of us couldn't give it a dictionary-worthy definition, but we all know what it looks like.  What comes to mind is the image of a parent lashing out, yelling at, at waving her fists at her kid following some unwanted behavior the child does, but reactive parenting can be much more subtle than this.  For all of us parents, we likely have some reactive tendencies simply because we're quick to respond, especially when we've got a lot on our mind and are doing a million things at once. So whether your reactive parenting is subtle or not so subtle, I want to talk about the signs of reactive parenting, the signs of proactive parenting, and some reasons for why proactive parenting is going to be the best approach for you and your child.   Remember, I help you make parenting easier. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn reviews the signs of reactive parenting and the reasons for why you want to get out of it;  She explains the signs of proactive parenting and why this is likely the parenting approach you want to adopt; and   She shares why it's common to have moments of reactive parenting, so no need to feel guilty because of it.  SHOW NOTES If you're at your wits end in your parenting and managing the typical toddler behaviors and you just don't know what to do about it or what to try, sign up for a 30-minute coaching call to get some insight into the problem you're experiencing and some guidance on what to do next. www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

We all know that parenting can feel hard sometimes. And parenting can BE hard sometimes, including when you realize that you are responding to your children differently. Maybe you give your younger child - the obedient and quiet child - the benefit of the doubt. Whereas for your child who is loud, fast-moving, and who pushes your boundaries, you're much more quick to blame.  Today I want to talk about this type of scenario in which you find yourself treating your children differently and what you can begin to do to address this pattern of your own behavior.  Don't forget my announcement from last week. I'm now offering single one-on-one 30-minute  calls! Sign up for a 30-minute call at www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme.  Now let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains how it's easy to treat our children differently especially if they are at different stages of development;  She shares the one thing you can begin to do now to change how you respond to your children; and  She shares a personal example from her own life in which she created a new story for herself in order to change how she thought and felt about a situation.  SHOW NOTES Need some quick one-on-one help and guidance? Sign up for a 30-minute coaching call! Pick a date and time and sign-up. It's that easy. www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Potty training. Data to keep track of throughout your child's journey. How to make your potty training journey easier over all. That's what we'll be talking about in today's episode.   And, BIG NEWS!  I am now offering one-on-one private 30-minute coaching calls! That means if you have a question about potty training, about behavior, or about parenting, you can schedule one 30-minute call with me, we'll chat and you'll get your questions answered. Super easy. Super convenient. I'm here for when you need me most. Learn more at www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme .  Now let's talk about tracking those important key pieces of data during potty training. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the four pieces of potty training information that she tracks throughout potty training; She explains why you'll want to keep track of these pieces of data, especially if your child struggles throughout the process; and  She shares how tracking your child's potty training journey can help you know your child's true progress. SHOW NOTES Need some quick one-on-one help and guidance? Sign up for a 30-minute coaching call! Pick a date and time and sign-up. It's that easy. www.lauralynnlapointe.com/workwithme.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Does your toddler have a lot to say like mine do? It's like the talking never stops, and it can leave you feeling exhausted.  But what happens when your little one interrupts you…. More often than not?  Today on the show I want to share how this behavior of interrupting happens at my house and what I'm doing to overcome it, to reduce the interrupting, and to teach appropriate waiting.  If your toddler is a talker and an interrupter, this episode is for you. Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares why toddlers are prone to interrupt and how it's a common behavior;  She explains how to respond in the moment when your toddler interrupts you; and She shares ways you can prevent your children from interrupting before it starts.  SHOW NOTES It's time for you to enjoy the seemingly ordinary parts of motherhood. Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you enjoy your role as a parent and see behavior improve. www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

There is no sweeter moment while raising toddlers than the moment you see an oh-so-precious behavior from your four year-old.  For a lot of us, these moments don't seem to come by often, so when they do, they're extra special.  Today I want to share with you the positive behavior I've been seeing recently in my four year-old son and the reason for why I'm seeing this behavior.  This episode is about creating and cultivating that peaceful, loving, and learning environment in your own home. This is something you can create as well, and you'll soon find that your four year-old is behaving similarly.  Now let me share with you the positive behavior I'm seeing in my four year-old. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the positive behavior she's seeing in her four year-old toward his younger sister;  She describes the reason for why her son is displaying this positive behavior; and She shares how your intentional role of motherhood can produce positive effects on your children.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you create the peaceful, intentional, and loving environment in your own home that both helps you and your child thrive! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Communication. The smallest changes in how you communicate can make all the difference in the world.  It's true for marriage, it's true for your own mindset, it's true for work and leading a team, and it's definitely true for parenting.  Today I want to share with you one of the ways you should be communicating with your toddlers to increase those good, appropriate behaviors and to get rid of those typical unwanted behaviors.  The strategy is easy. It's all about practicing speaking in this way and getting consistent with it.  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn describes the easy-to-use strategy to help get your toddlers to do those good, appropriate behaviors;  She shares how the strategy is useful at getting rid of unwanted toddler behaviors; and  She describes how this strategy helps create a learning ground in your home environment.   SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you thrive in your own motherhood on your terms and feel confident while doing it! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Are you considering switching up or changing the potty training method that you are using with your child?  Maybe you thought your child would get the hang of this whole potty thing right away, but that's not what it's looking like, considering that you're cleaning up pee pee accidents more times in a day than you'd like to count.  A parent recently asked me if she should switch the more hands-off potty training method that she was using with her son to a much more structured method. The conversation was so enlightening that I wanted to share with you all here so that you're not left second guessing yourself if you should do something different about potty training.   Should you change up your potty training method? Let's find out. Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn describes the reasons for when you should change your potty training method.  She shares some of the typical ways that you can change your method if your child is not making progress; and  She shares when you may NOT want to change your potty training method.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you thrive in your own motherhood on your terms and feel confident while doing it! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Parenting can feel downright hard.  Dealing with tantrums. A toddler who talks your ear off nonstop. The kid who only wants mommy.  It's easy to feel overwhelmed, drained, exhausted, and at your wits end.  And I'm here to remind you that parenting doesn't have to feel this hard. It can be easier. You can let those tantrums roll off your back. You can respond to that non stop talking toddler simply. You can deal with the child who only needs mommy with ease. We can get you there.   Now the real reason parenting is hard? Let's find out. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn described what a lot of moms feel in their parenting;  She shares the reasons for why parenting can feel so hard; and  She gives you specific journal prompts to get to the bottom of what feels hard about parenting so you can determine what to do about it.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you thrive in your own motherhood, on your terms! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If you ever feel like you're just checking off the boxes of to-dos as a mom, this episode is for you.  This week on the podcast I share with you how I'm connecting more with my kids and why I'm prioritizing that.  Focusing on this connection has not only helped my children, but I've seen how it has become very helpful for me as a mom.  I think you will relate with what I share today. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares why she is focusing on connecting more with her kids;  She explains how she practically connects with her children; and  She shares how this connection impacts the future.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you thrive in your own motherhood, on your terms! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

No one likes to do something that they don't want to do, and that goes for our toddlers as well.  You don't like to pay bills, schedule another doctor's appointment, run to the grocery store, or prep dinner, but you do it anyway, without a fuss, without a tantrum…. Well, at least sometimes.  Our toddlers, they're a different story.  There are a lot of things that they don't like but they need to do it anyway: going potty, getting dressed, cleaning up toys, heading inside for the night.  And when they don't like something but need to do it anyway, this is when you'll likely see that full-blown tantrum. They're not as good as you at controlling their emotions.  So how can we make this easier on them - and us - when they need to transition to something that they don't like to do. That's what we'll be talking about today, and I'll be giving you specific strategies that you can use to help ease that transition.  Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares common parenting strategies you can use to help your child complete a task or transition to something that your child doesn't want to do;  She explains your key response if your child has a tantrum or some other unwanted behavior when needing to complete a task; and  She shares why our kids may have a tantrum when needing to do something they don't want to do.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you learn to apply parenting strategies that work to many different situations at home with your toddler!  www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Picture this…  You're done with daytime potty training, your child is fully pee and poop potty trained for daytime and nap, and now all of a sudden your child isn't doing a good pee when she sits on the toilet. She sits, goes some, and then runs off.  Maybe she's rushing to the bathroom a little while later because she has to go. Maybe she suddenly has some pee pee dribbles in her underwear.  And you're thinking, what gives? You had this whole potty training thing down months ago.  If you ask me, “What gives?” is a great question.  Why is your child suddenly doing this, and what can you do about it? That's what I'll be answering today.  Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn reviews the potential reasons your child is not fully eliminating when she sits on the potty to go pee; She shares the questions you should ask yourself to figure out why your child is not fully eliminating to help you determine what to do next; and  She gives you different strategies you can begin trying at home to solve this not fully eliminating problem.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you more fully step into the role of being the expert on your child! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If you have a two-year-old, three-year-old, or four-year-old, you may have noticed the nasty “no” word coming out of your sweet toddler's mouth maybe a little too often.  It's not super surprising. Your toddler is growing in independence, being in control is something she's aiming for, and she's learning that her behavior - her response - can be used for her good.  So today on the show I want to talk about how we should respond to the ever common “no” that our toddlers throw at us.  Your child saying this may absolutely drive you mad, but it doesn't have to.  Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the two common reasons for why a child may say “no” to you; She explains why it's important to understand the reason for why your toddler may be telling you “no”; and  She shares how you should respond when your child says “no” to your instruction, your transition, or your positive comment.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you parent smarter, not harder, and create the parenting life you love! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Are you into the whole idea of picking a word for the year?  If you are, at the beginning of January you probably chose a word to help you align yourself to who you want to be - or at least working towards being - for the new year.  I'm not super into this trend or idea like other people are but for the past two years I did choose a word to focus on at least temporarily.  The word that I chose for 2022 is BRAVE because, at the time when I chose the word, I needed to be grounded in the concept of bravery, and I felt the nudge to be brave in all areas of life, in my marriage, in my personal life, in my business, and in parenting.  So today I want to share with you what being brave looks like for me in my parenting, and I'm sharing this with you in the hopes of inspiring you to be brave in your own life, and to remind you that you're definitely not alone.  You're not the only parent who struggles with toddler meltdowns - I dealt with that just last night - you're not the only mom who finds it easier to take care of her kids than herself, you're not the only parent finding it difficult and challenging to raise two different kids.  So today I'm happy to share with you what a very raw and real brave form of parenting looks like. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares why she picked BRAVE as her word for 2022; She shares four different ways she's practically being brave with raising her two toddlers; and She illustrates what questions you need to ask yourself and reflect on so you can determine what life looks like for you when you're embodying a new outlook.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you parent smarter, not harder, and create the parenting life you love! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

You've conquered the daytime potty training - or are in the midst of conquering it - and now you're wondering how the heck do you get your child potty trained for nap.  If you've followed my daytime potty training plan, what I recommend for naptime is going to sound quite familiar to you because a lot of the strategies that you use for daytime training you will also use for naptime training.  The steps are simple, the how-to is simple, and you'll gleam a lot from today's episode as I review the how-to for naptime potty training.  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn outlines five strategies to follow for successful  naptime potty training;  She reviews how some of your child's learned daytime potty training skills can carry over to naptime training and make the process easier for you; and  She shares what notes or data you can collect during daytime potty training to help you determine when to begin naptime potty training.  SHOW NOTES There's a lot more to potty training than the typical daytime potty training that most parents think of. The whole potty training process is a lot easier when you have an expert who can give you the how-to, give you the rundown, and support you through it. Sign up for a free call with me to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you potty train in ease: www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Summer is coming to an end and it's about time to send your toddler back to preschool - or maybe to preschool for the first time.  I've really, really enjoyed the extra time with my kids at home this summer, much more than I was anticipating, so sending my oldest back to preschool will be a bit of an adjustment for the first month or so.  So today I want to talk about easing that transition, preparing our kiddos to go back to preschool. I'll be sharing some specific action steps you can take to help prepare them mentally and physically for that school-time season.  Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn outlines five easy ways you can physically and mentally prepare your child to transition back to preschool;  She shares another person you may need to mentally and physically prepare for this transition; and  She shares how she's personally feeling about this transition with her own kid.  SHOW NOTES Parenting is easier when you have the knowledge, tools, and resources that can set you and your child up for success. Sign up for a free call to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help set you up for success: www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

You tackled the big to-do of potty training your child this summer and now you're left wondering…  Okay, is my child ready to wear underwear to preschool?  When is a child ready to wear underwear to preschool? That's what I'll be answering in today's episode. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares three important criteria that your child should meet in order to be ready to wear underwear to preschool; She outlines what you should consider if your child is not fully potty trained but may be ready to head to preschool in underwear; and She specifically shares when your child should NOT wear underwear to preschool. SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free call to learn how my Coaching Program for Moms can help you potty train (and parent) with ease! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

A concept about parenting that I've really been focusing on with the parents that I coach is the idea of you being the expert of your own child. And not only that, but you being the BEST expert of your own child.  Do you feel like you're an expert on your child?  Maybe you've never thought about it. Maybe your gut reaction is that no, you don't feel like the expert of your own child. Maybe you have a lot of questions, a lot of doubt, a lot of uncertainty surrounding how you're parenting or the decisions you make regarding your child.  Maybe it's a little too easy for you to see the areas where you feel that you're struggling in your parenting, and it's a little too hard to see the areas where you're thriving, where you are, indeed, the expert of your child.  I love developing this thought with moms and specifically to help you to hone in on your own parenting genius with your child.  I think one of the best ways that we can do this - that we can feel like the expert of our child and hone in on our parenting genius - is to build trust with ourselves and with our child.  It doesn't have to be hard. It's a baby step. But this one step can be that first thing to get that pendulum to swing in the opposite direction - away from the uncertainty, the fear, the self-doubt, the frustration, the confusion.  Which leads us to today's episode. Let's talk about creating trust for yourself and your child. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the strategy you can begin practicing today to build trust with yourself and with your child; She sheds light on why it's important to avoid using threatening statements with your child; and She shares how practicing this skill now will serve you in the future as you continue to learn and use other parenting strategies. SHOW NOTES Learn how to become the expert of your own child in my Coaching Program for Moms. Sign up for a free call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If you're in your potty training journey with your toddler and you're concerned or worried that maybe your child is just not getting the hang of it or you feel that your child is struggling to learn the process or you feel that maybe they aren't making the progress that you think your child should be making, the very first thing that I would look at and trouble shoot is the reward you're using.  And if you're concerned about progress and aren't using rewards at all, then by all means add those rewards in.  The reason that I say that rewards is the first thing that you should troubleshoot in your potty training journey is that it's a pretty dang easy thing to fix or to change, and that one small change with rewards in potty training can actually make a huge difference.  That's my go-to when it comes to troubleshooting typical potty training progress issues because one small, easy change can make such an impact. Now let's talk about using rewards in potty training so that they can actually work for you and help your child become potty trained. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the best practice strategies for effectively using rewards in potty training; She shares when you should NOT deliver a reward to your child; and  She shares the strategy for how to make your reward the most effective and most motivating for your child throughout potty training.  SHOW NOTES Learn how to parent with ease in potty training and all of toddlerhood in my Coaching Program for Moms. Sign up for a free call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

My 2- and 4-year old really love to go to the library, and one of the big problems that comes up for my kids is who is going to push the button to automatically open the door when we walk in and walk out.  It can be a battle, and if I don't use the right strategies, there will for sure be a loud tantrum in the quiet library. So today on the show I want to walk you through my tried-and-true AND easy to use strategy that has saved me frustration and that has consistently prevented any public tantrums from occurring for both of my kids in this situation.  The strategy is incredibly easy, and it can be applied in a lot of different situations to save you headache and heartache and give your kiddos the support that they may need.  Now on to my tried-and-true strategy. Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the parenting strategy she uses to prevent public tantrums in the library with her two toddlers; She outlines the step-by-step process for effectively using this strategy so that you can easily apply it in your own parenting; and She explains what you need to do to figure out what strategies could help you prevent unwanted behavior. SHOW NOTES Parenting is easier when you have tools in your back pocket that actually work. Schedule a call with me to learn how my coaching program can support you in your parenting. www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If it's about time for you to start your potty training journey with your child, you may be wondering if you've “prepped” your child enough for the experience.  What do they need to know about the potty before they jump in?  How much do you need to mentally prepare them?  What should you tell them?  What should they experience?  I get lots of questions like this from moms who are about the jump into potty training for the first time. They want to make sure they set their child up for success when it comes to potty training, and I'm all aboard on that mentality.  So today let's talk about this exposure to the potty before jumping into potty training so that you can begin your journey in ease.   Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains how your child naturally gets some potty exposure prior to your potty training journey;  She shares why you may NOT want to do a structured potty exposure for your child so that fears do not develop; and  She shares what you DO need to do when you start potty training if your child has been sitting on the potty for fun.  SHOW NOTES Need potty training guidance and support? Schedule a call to learn how my Coaching program for moms can help you! www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What do you think would happen to your child's behavior, or maybe even to your relationship with your child, if you worked on what is negatively affecting or impacting YOU?  Take a couple of days and really think about that.  Think about the things that bother you, the things that keep popping up into your head, the irritations that drive you mad that are on repeat. What would happen if you started addressing those things in a positive way?  My thought is that when you begin tackling some of the things that are bothering you, when you begin to improve your personal self and your own life, then you may see positive changes in your child's behavior. I'll explain why in the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the #1 question that you need to ask yourself if you're wanting to address your child's unwanted behavior; She illustrates how your behavior can potentially influence your child's behavior; and  She shares her own reflection on how her behavior - the things she did or did not do - has recently impacted her children. SHOW NOTES Coaching program for moms of toddlers… sign up for a free call to see if it's a right fit for you at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

One of the biggest beefs that many parents have with using rewards for potty training is that they think that their child will ALWAYS require to earn a reward in order to go pee pee on the potty, and that's just not the case.  As you know, I'm a big fan of using rewards, especially for potty training, so today I want to guide you on how to effectively decrease those rewards after potty training is over.  To calm your fears, your child will NOT require a reward to go pee pee on the potty for the rest of her life.  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the key piece to SUCCESSFULLY decreasing the use of rewards for daytime potty training;  She goes in detail on how she decreased the use of rewards for daytime potty training for her son; and  She shares under what specific situation it may be a good idea to keep rewards in place.  SHOW NOTES It's nice to have someone walk you through this type of parenting stuff, like decreasing rewards following potty training, plus behavior and all of motherhood. Sounds like support you want?! Sign up at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn to learn about my coaching program.  Episode 165: So, When is Potty Training Over?! https://www.lauralynnlapointe.com/blog/165 Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What's your favorite behavior strategy to use with toddlers?  I asked this very question to my husband, and that's what I want to share with you today.  Plus, I want to let you in on the reasons that this strategy is his favorite strategy, to really let you see that parenting doesn't have to be hard, using good parenting strategies can be effective, and that you can actually enjoy your parenting.  Let's get right to it. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares her husband's favorite toddler behavior strategy and explains how to use the strategy effectively; She explains why this is her husband's favorite strategy and, thus, should be one of your top strategies as well; and  She details how this strategy can prevent unwanted behaviors from occurring.  SHOW NOTES Parenting doesn't have to be hard, using good parenting strategies can be effective, and you can actually enjoy your parenting. This is what I focus on in my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms. Come learn more at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

There's a lot more to potty training than just the typical stuff that gets talked about. There's more to it than readiness signs, how to respond to accidents, and what method to use.  So today, I want to talk about another topic of potty training that isn't talked about very much. I want to talk about what life looks like when potty training is over. The days, the weeks, and the months following potty training.  Like last week, this episode will be very helpful if this is your first time potty training. So let's get to it. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains what the days after potty training looks like, including what you should and should not be doing;  She shares when your child can wear underwear to daycare; and  She shares what you should begin thinking about the weeks and months following daytime potty training.  SHOW NOTES There's more to potty training than we realize. Schedule a call with me to learn how my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms can support you during the potty training process. Sign up at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Episode 165: So, When is Potty Training Over?! https://www.lauralynnlapointe.com/blog/165 Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

We talk a lot about potty training: the how-to, readiness signs, how long it will take.  We think about the process and what life will look like during that process when you're actively potty training your child.  We also think about AFTER potty training is over… what life will be like, the freedom you'll have from not having to change diapers, the money that you'll save from not having to buy those diapers.  But one thing we don't often talk about is “When is potty training over?”  How do you know when you're done with potty training? When can you officially say you're done training?  That's what we'll be talking about today.  Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn gives you her criteria for determining when potty training is officially over;  She specifically outlines when potty training is over when using the timer method or the potty sit schedule method; and  She shares what life looks like once you're officially done with potty training.  SHOW NOTES There's more to potty training than we realize. Schedule a call with me to learn how my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms can support you during the potty training process. Sign up at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What can you do to parent in ease?  Even when your toddler is whining… Even when your toddler is having a tantrum… Even when you're trying to do 30 billion things at once AND deal with the kids who aren't sharing or taking turns… You can find ease and joy and peace in your parenting… EVEN when you've got littles at home… Even if they do behaviors that drive you nuts… Even if you currently feel stretched thin.  But how is that possible, you may ask.  There is a truth to your child's behavior that you have to keep in mind when you're in the thick of it, when you're dealing with the messy house, when you're again dealing with that typical toddler tantrum.  I'm here to empower you in your own parenting, so let's do that today. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares what you need to know about your toddler's development in order to parent in ease;  She explains why we use parenting strategies even when your toddler's behavior is typical and developmentally appropriate; and She gives you thought phrase examples that you can speak to yourself when you're in the thick of it and dealing with the typical toddler tantrum.  SHOW NOTES Let's bring some joy and ease back into your motherhood journey. Schedule a call with me to learn how my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms can give you the support you need. Sign up at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

It's potty training season and I'm a big, big fan of the potty training schedule method in which your child sits on the potty based off of a schedule, which is signaled by a timer.  One of the reasons why I love this method is because it tells both the child and the parent when it's time to sit on the potty, and you can easily see where your child is making improvements in their potty training journey.  So today on the show I'm going to walk you through this potty training schedule method and let you know how it works.  Alright, let's get to it. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the general flow of the potty training sit schedule method; She walks you through how to gradually increase the time in-between the scheduled potty sits; and She explains what to do in the method if your child is having too many accidents back-to-back. SHOW NOTES I offer potty training support in my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms! Schedule a call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn to learn if my coaching program is the right fit for you. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What do you do when you're dealing with the same behavior in the same situation day after day after day?  When you've got these recurring behavior episodes, even if they seem to be pretty mild situations, it can be so easy for your brain to land in the trap of negativity and feelings of loneliness.  So what do you do? What do you do when you have negative behavior on repeat? This is what we'll be talking about in today's episode.  I'll share how you can take control of these situations that are on repeat, and I'll share a few examples of how I've done this in my own home.  Now it's time to take back some control. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares different ways you can take back control when you're dealing with unwanted behaviors that are on repeat; She explains how she has used a reward system and a strategy called Pivot & Praise to take back control for two different behaviors; and  She describes how evaluating a strategy's effectiveness is important.  SHOW NOTES In my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms I teach you parenting strategies that actually work. Schedule a call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn to learn if my coaching program can help you parent smarter, not harder and bring some ease into your parenting. You can find Episode 129: Reward Systems with Toddlers: A Case Study at https://laura-lynn-lapointe.mykajabi.com/blog/129 Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If you plan to potty train your toddler this summer, this episode is for you.  I'll be going over three keys that you'll want to follow to get potty training started and DONE!  Let's talk potty training. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares how you can reduce your stress and anxiety about potty training before actually beginning the journey with your toddler;  She explains all of the different pieces to consider when formulating your potty training game plan; and  She describes the potty training method that she used to train her son and how that specific method informs you on your child's progress throughout potty training.  SHOW NOTES In my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms I teach you the potty training method that I used to potty train my own son. For potty training and parenting support and encouragement, schedule a call with me  at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Today's episode is all about the blame game that we mamas play. Yep, I'm including myself as a participant in this blame game bucket.  It's so easy to blame ourselves, but today I want to talk about how we can move past this very common parenting struggle so that you can parent in ease and actually enjoy being a mom.  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains three keys she follows as an alternative solution to the blame game; She illustrates those three keys with a recent example from her own life; and  She describes what actions she took to be more calm, more positive, and yell less in a very difficult season of her own life.  SHOW NOTES Have you heard about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms? Schedule a call with me to learn more at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Today on the show we are talking about two fundamental strategies you will want to follow if you are using rewards to potty training your toddler.  I'm a big fan of rewards, I used rewards to potty train my now 4 year-old son, and I will definitely be using rewards when I potty train my 2 year-old daughter. But here's the thing about rewards… They can work really, really well at helping your child learn a new skill - in this case potty training- but we have to use them in the right way.  It's not rocket science, but you don't know what you don't know, right?!  Now onto the two keys when using rewards in potty training. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the three different rewards she used when potty training her son;  She explains why it's important for your child to be motivated to earn a certain reward; and  She describes why it's important to ensure that your child only has access to that potty training reward in potty training only.  SHOW NOTES Come learn about my potty training strategies that can easily be applied to the rest of your parenting in my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms! Schedule a call with me to learn more at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

In my own parenting I am ALL about using strategies that are easy to use, that work at improving behavior in the moment I'm with my toddler, and that help my child with skill development and improve behavior long-term.  So today on the show I want to share with you the strategy that I use daily with both my 2-year-old and my 4-year-old to decrease whining and to increase appropriate communication.  Who wouldn't want less whining and more appropriate communication?!  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the parenting strategy that she uses in her own home to decrease whining and increase appropriate requests;  She gives examples of how she uses the strategy with a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old; and   She describes how this strategy decreases unwanted behavior like whining and improves desirable behavior like appropriate asking and requesting.  SHOW NOTES Bring ease and confidence to your parenting! Schedule a call with me to learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms where I teach strategies to help you confidently parent in ease at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Since Spring and Summer are key times for potty training for most parents, for the next foreseeable future I'll be adding in extra potty training episodes on the podcast to give you some additional support. I'll be talking about the how-to of potty training, using rewards, outlining when potty training is over, and describing what life really looks like when potty training is over, which will be very helpful if your child is the first one you're potty training. Don't forget that I do have a lot of previous episodes on potty training, so search my episodes to see if any of those episodes can give you some guidance when it comes to potty training. But today I want to get a little personal and talk about what I would change about my own potty training journey.  Even if your potty training journey resulted in successfully potty training your toddler, there may still be some things you'd do differently, and I, as a real mama, am in the same boat as you; there's something major that I would change, and I'll share that with you today.  I'll also be reviewing the method that I used so that you can get a better understanding of what my potty training journey looked like.  Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the method she used to potty train her son; She shares the struggle she had during potty training and what she would change so that the struggle wouldn't be so hard; and   She describes why potty training has more to do with the parent than with the child.  SHOW NOTES Potty training doesn't have to be stressful! Schedule a call with me to learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms where I teach the ins and outs of potty training and strategies to help you confidently parent in ease at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If your child's behavior isn't the problem, then what do you think IS the problem?  Today I'm putting on my sassy pants for a little bit - which I rarely do - but I do it for a good reason.  I want you to understand your toddler's behavior or your preschooler's behavior in a better way, in a more true way, which will bring so much clarity and peace to your motherhood journey.  Alright, the sassy pants are coming on. I hope you enjoy. Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the real problem to your child's typical toddler behaviors;  She shares what you have to keep in check to keep your calm and your cool when dealing with toddler behaviors; and  She describes why it is so important to understand toddler behavior from a develop and behavior standpoint.  SHOW NOTES Parenting can be easy! Schedule a call with me to learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms where I teach you the science of behavior, the strategies that will save you tons of heartache and headaches, and how you can confidently parent in ease at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Does your toddler do the potty dance?  Even if your child is wearing underwear and is mostly or completely potty trained, she may still be doing the potty dance.  When she has to go potty, she may fidget and dance around. Or she may walk around in a funny way because she's trying to hold it. Or she even could be holding herself because she has to go potty but won't go to the bathroom, or won't tell you.  This is one of the MOST frequent issues that mamas come to me with. Their child is fully potty trained, she doesn't have accidents, she's wearing underwear all day, and yet she won't ever tell you that she needs to go.  Why is it that your child does this potty dance, is fully potty trained, and won't tell you that she needs to go? And what can you do about it? That's what we'll be talking about today.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the reason for why a child can be fully potty trained but not request the need to go sit on the potty;  She shares why it's so important for newly potty trained children to have the skill of requesting the bathroom; and  She describes how to teach your child to request the potty during potty training AND if your child is already potty trained.  SHOW NOTES Parenting can be easy! Schedule a call with me to learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms where I teach you the science of behavior, the strategies that will save you tons of heartache and headaches, and how you can confidently parent in ease at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Does your toddler grunt or make some other similar noise when she's upset or frustrated about something that's going on around her?  Maybe her brother took away the toy that she was playing with. Maybe you told her that she can't have a snack right now. Maybe you're making her go inside from outside playtime.  What's really going on is that your child is responding to some irritating thing with sounds instead of words.  Is this normal? And what can you do about it? That's what I'll be talking about in today's episode.  Let's go to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains why children may grunt when they are frustrated instead of communicating with their words like they normally do;   She shares how you can respond to this grunting sound to aid your child in his or her development; and  She shares the communication tool that she uses in her home daily with her own children. SHOW NOTES Learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Do you have a toddler who just does NOT want to play alone?  He wants to play with you. He wants your interaction. He wants you near him during his playtime. He wants you to do most of the playing.  If this sounds like playtime at your house, keep listening to this episode.  Today I'll be sharing what you can do when your child relies on you for his playtime and specific tools you can use to begin teaching your child how to play without you. And, of course, I'll be reviewing that ever-important development piece that we must never forget when it comes to understanding our child's behavior.  Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the different ways that playtime can look if your child relies on you for playtime or doesn't like playing alone; She shares specific questions you should ask yourself to determine if there is an underlying problem regarding your child's playtime; and She gives you specific tools that you can use to begin teaching your child how to play alone.  SHOW NOTES Learn about my 90 Day Coaching Program for Moms at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Parenting should come with a manual, shouldn't it?  While that seems like a great idea and an opportunity that someone should have jumped on a long time ago, the reality of it is that every child is an individual. That means they have their individual personalities, their individual preferences, their individual idiosyncrasies, and their individual needs.  It's true for potty training as well. You may be holding a so-called potty training “manual” or book, you've followed it to a T, and yet your toddler is still not potty trained. What gives?  If you're in the boat of using more of a child-led or child-initiated potty training method and it's just not doing the trick, your toddler is still not getting the hang of it after a good consistent effort, keep listening to this episode.  Today I will be sharing what to do next if that child-led potty training method isn't cutting it and you're ready to have your child become potty trained already, with their individual needs, personalities, preferences, and all.  Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the differences between a child-led potty training method and a parent-led potty training method;  She shares the typical issues children may experience when the child-led potty training method isn't working for them; and  She outlines how you can remedy your child's struggles with the child-led potty training method to get them back on potty training track.  SHOW NOTES Learn about my 90 Day Mama Coaching Program at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Do you feel like you're just “getting through” this season of your motherhood?  This season of life - dealing with the terrible twos, struggling with the trying 3s, toddlerhood -  can feel so exhausting, so draining, and so frustrating.  If you feel like you have to hide out in the pantry to make a phone call or sneak away to your bathroom just to catch a break, this episode is for you.  Today on the show I want to share how you can create a season of motherhood that's a bit different - and much more positive - than this “just getting through” mentality.  Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares how easy it is to have this “just getting through” mentality with every stage of your child's development;  She answers the question, “Are you thriving?” for her own motherhood journey and shares her personal definition for “thriving”; and  She outlines how you can begin to thrive in your parenting by first determining what you want your “thriving” results to be for your own personal motherhood journey. SHOW NOTES Learn about my 90 Day Mama Coaching Program at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

If you have two or more toddlers running around your house, you already know what a battle it can be for your kids to share toys.  And you are well aware of increased noise, the stress, and the pressure that this not wanting to share behavior can bring up. So is it a big deal?  Is it a big deal that your toddler struggles with sharing? And what can you do about it to help your child learn appropriate sharing and make your home more peaceful in the process?  We'll talk about it in today's episode. Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares the important toddler development piece that you need to understand so that you don't get mad and yell at your toddler for not sharing;  She explains the different reasons for why a toddler may struggle with sharing; and  She outlines multiple easy-to-use strategies for managing and responding to your toddler's struggle with sharing, especially with siblings.  SHOW NOTES Learn about my 90 Day Mama Coaching Program at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

You CAN have control in your parenting. You CAN feel confident in your parenting. And you CAN experience stability in your parenting.  How?  By using strategies that work. By parenting smarter and not harder.  One of the practical ways that you can do this and achieve that success in your parenting and with your toddler's behavior is through the strategy of choice. Simply providing choices to your toddler.  I've talked about this strategy before but today on the show I want to show you how you can use this strategy to work for you and with your own preferences in mind. These strategies are like your best friend. They're on your side and they have your back. If you feel like these parenting strategies are out to get you or make your life worse, keep listening to the episode.  Alright, now onto the power of choice. Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains why the parenting strategy of providing a choice works at preventing unwanted behaviors; She outlines how you can use choice to work for you AND your toddler; and  She shares examples for how you can use choice in a flexible and outside-of-the-box way.  SHOW NOTES Learn how you can make the easy-to-use parenting strategies work for you in my 90 day mama coaching program. Sign up for a free clarity call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

One of the most frequent questions that I get asked about potty training is what types of rewards are good rewards to use for potty training.  It's a good question because if you're going to use rewards to help create a successful potty training plan, then you might as well use rewards that are actually going to work.  Maybe you've never considered it but using technology as a reward within potty training may be a dang good reward for your kiddo. But what does that look like? How do you use technology as a reward in potty training?  Today on the show I'll share how you can use technology as a reward and use it to your advantage. Of course, in my own personal and professional potty training experience, I have used technology A LOT as a reward. I'll share how it can be done.  Now let's talk about technology and potty training. Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains why she uses rewards to help teach the skills and train the child to be potty trained;  She shares different types of technology that you can use as a reward; and  She reviews the how-to for effectively and successfully using rewards in potty training to get your child to be potty trained.  SHOW NOTES Learn how you can parent smarter, not harder and actually feel like a confident parent in my one-on-one mama coaching package. To learn how I can help you create that ease in parenting, sign up for my clarity call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What I know from studying the research (and personally living it out) is that kids - and all people - love and thrive on routine and structure and consistency. But how can we create that structure, provide that consistency, and also tackle some of these typical unwanted toddler behaviors in our own homes in a practical way? Rules, my friends.  Contrary to what many people believe, rules actually provide freedom. That structure and that consistent expectation provides freedom, not the opposite.  So today on the show I want to give you the how-to for creating effective rules for your toddlers that you can use at home, and I'll walk you through two different rules I've successfully incorporated in my own home with my toddlers.  Yep, these rules actually got rid of some unwanted behaviors that were driving me nuts.  Let's create some effective rules. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains the steps to follow to create effective rules for your toddler; She reviews the key pieces to make them as effective as possible and actually work at increasing desirable and decreasing undesirable behaviors; and She shares in detail the two sets of rules that she has successfully used with her own toddlers.   SHOW NOTES Need help with creating these household rules? Sign up for your FREE coaching call and we'll walk through it together! Sign up at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Have you ever been in a situation in which your toddler asks for or requests your help in some way, you begin to offer that help, and then they freak out, whine, and get upset because you are helping them… and you're doing the exact thing they wanted help with.  You're left feeling, “uh, what the heck just happened?!”  These types of moments are not too surprising with our still-developing toddlers, and if we can understand this toddler behavior with a developmental lens, parenting becomes a heck of a lot easier, so much less irritating, and much more enjoyable for us.  But maybe you're still left questioning yourself: what on earth do I do in this situation? How should I handle the “I want help but I actually don't want help” scenario?  My main advice here: direct and clear communication is key.  Let's talk about that now. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn explains developmentally why toddlers ask for help but then get upset when you offer that help;  She walks you through how to handle and manage behavior within two different examples and demonstrates how you can respond in the moment; and  She shares how providing choices can help prevent the behaviors from occurring under these circumstances.  SHOW NOTES In order for you to bring ease to your parenting, in order for you to not lash out, get frustrated, or blame yourself for your toddler's behaviors is to understand your child's behavior in terms of development. Looking at behavior as science and looking at behavior with the developmental framework is what I dive deep into within my coaching sessions. Sign up for your FREE coaching call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Today's episode is all about the how-to for pee pee accidents that occur within potty training, and it's a pretty common question I get:  What do I do when my child has an accident?  How should I respond when my toddler has an accident in potty training? I'll tell you everything you need to know, and don't worry, it's not rocket science. It's pretty straight forward and makes sense.  Now let's get you out of that puddle. Let's head to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn gives you the step-by-step process for how to respond to accidents that occur within potty training; She explains why it's important for your child to have accidents in underwear (instead of diapers or pull-ups) in the potty training journey; and  She shares why accidents are a good thing for your child to experience within potty training.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a free 30-minute coaching call and get your potty training, behavior, and parenting questions answered. Free support… What more could you want? Sign up for your free call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

We are wrapping up this year, and with the end of one year comes the beginning of another year.  With a new year comes new goals, aspirations, improvements, and well-being.  So today on the show I want to share with you my personal reflection of my parenting this past year, specifically my biggest struggle with parenting two young toddlers, and how I plan to move forward so that the struggle doesn't stay as a struggle.  I'm certain you'll feel me in the struggle that I share today. You're not alone.  Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares where she struggles in her parenting as it relates to parenting two young toddlers;  She explains the process she used to discover the solutions to overcome her common parenting struggles; and  She shares the ways she plans to move forward in her struggles and how she plans to make improvements to her parenting journey.  SHOW NOTES Sign up for a FREE 30-minute coaching call so I can share with you my science-backed strategies at preventing the typical unwanted behaviors - hello tantrums - and the science behind how behavior works because, when you understand how something works, it's a heck of a lot easier to prevent, manage, and deal with. Let's bring some ease into your parenting. Sign up for your free call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.   Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Do you ever feel like your kids are acting like total nutcases, especially when you're out in public?  Maybe you're feeling that your kids are the only kids.  Your kids are the only kids who are loud and noisy. Your kids are the only kids who are touching everything in sight. Your kids are the only kids who are running all over the place.  It feels embarrassing and can be mentally exhausting.  Today on the show I want to talk about those kids of ours who are acting like nutcases while out in public and what we, as parents, can think about the whole situation.  Perspective is everything and today I'm here to give you some perspective.   Now onto the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares a situation when her own toddlers acted like nutcases in public and how she took perspective about the situation to bring ease in her own parenting;  She explains why it is crucial to take perspective and analyze what is going on within a situation with your child's behavior; and  She reviews why our children's unwanted behavior in public can be normal.  SHOW NOTES Whether you feel like your kids are, indeed, nutcases, you're overwhelmed with the toddler behavior, or you're feeling like a crummy parent who has no idea what she's doing, I've got your back. Schedule a free 30-minute call with me and I'll give you some insight and perspective to parenting and your child's behavior to help make you feel at ease and confident in your parenting. Schedule your free call at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn.   Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

What to do when you deliver a choice to your child, you're banking that it'll take care of all of that whining and toddler tantrum in that moment, and then flop: it all goes wrong. Or at least it seems that it all goes wrong.  As I always say, we can use all of the best parenting strategies out there but our kids are still kids, they're human, we're human, and the strategies aren't going to work 100% of the time.  Don't get me wrong, I firmly believe that strategies like providing choices are incredible and powerful and can have such a positive effect within your parenting, but the strategy may not work each and every time. This is normal and this is to be expected. That's why it's important to have an arsenal of good parenting strategies. So today on the show I want to walk you through how to handle a situation that seems to go completely wrong when using the strategy of providing choice and how you can turn it around so that the strategy can still work for you.  Situations aren't always perfect, but we can get better at picking up these pieces and putting them together in a way that they will fit, and that will save you a lot of headache and heartache in the long run.   Alright, on to providing choices. Let's go to the show. IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn reviews how to use the strategy of providing choice effectively; She explains how a toddler may respond imperfectly to the strategy, which the parenting textbook doesn't cover; and  She shares how you can respond to your child when he or she doesn't respond to the strategy perfectly and still get the strategy to work for you. SHOW NOTES Regardless of what strategy you're using that seems to not work or seems to all go wrong, you're not alone and there are ways to get these strategies to work for you, we just have to be open to learning the strategies and being flexible in the moment. I'll help you through it. Schedule a free 30-minute call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn and I'll walk you through whatever situation you're having with your toddler that makes you feel like you've been eaten alive so that you can see how a situation can get better and actually have the tools to do it.  Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe

Have you dabbled with potty training but you're ready to put the pedal to the metal, go all in, and ditch those diapers for good?  Maybe you've given your toddler the time and the space to get comfortable with the potty, to give it a try on their own, and to let them do it on their terms. But maybe, just maybe, your toddler isn't daytime potty trained.  Don't worry. It's not just your toddler and you're not the only one in this boat. Many, many parents have gone this route of being lax about potty training but soon finding that they need to ramp up the strategies a little bit to actually get their kiddo potty trained.  And guess what, some kids actually do need to be “trained.” They need to go through the potty training process. They may not be potty trained on their own or in their own timing, and that's okay.  So today on the show I'm going to answer the very common question of how to jump into potty training when you've dabbled with it a bit but you're ready to get it done for good.   Now let's talk about how to move beyond the dabble in potty training. Let's head to the show.  IN THIS EPISODE: Laura Lynn shares how dabbling within potty training can produce some benefits to the structured potty training method;  She explains why some children need to be formally potty trained; and She outlines what you need to do to begin formal potty training with your toddler. SHOW NOTES If you feel intimidated, stuck, or uncertain about this whole potty training thing, I have your back. Schedule a free call with me at www.bit.ly/chatwithlauralynn so we can hash out how you can get potty training done in ease. Let's connect!  On Facebook: www.fb.me/lauralynnlapointe  On Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/lauralynnlapointe