#40: How do I use the toddler years to set the stage for body-positivity?
with Tovah P. Klein, PhD
In this episode we discuss…
tovah’s background and her work running the barnard toddler center
why ages 2 to 5 are a time of unbelievably rapid growth and development
how toddlers are developing a sense of self and independence for the first time
the toddler paradox of wanting to become independent while wanting to be secured by the parent
why the toddler years are key for building secure attachment and emotion regulation skills
brain development in toddlerhood
why toddler world is a different planet from adult world, and the benefits of looking from the toddler point of view
the importance of building a secure attachment - and why it can be so challenging
how to consider your toddler’s point of view but remain the adult in charge
why food and mealtimes are a hotbed for toddler battles over control
the value of setting up a regular mealtime routine
socializing toddlers into mealtime
how to help toddlers try new foods
how to understand and respond to toddlers throwing food or making a mess
tovah’s answer to the million dollar question
In this episode, “the Toddler Whisperer” Dr. Tovah Klein shares how parents can plant seeds for a child’s lifelong success during the toddler years. She explains the “toddler paradox,” gives us insight into the toddler mind, and shares practical tips for feeding toddlers without power struggles.
Tovah P. Klein is Director of the Barnard College Center for Toddler Development, a psychology professor at Barnard College and author of How Toddlers Thrive: What Parents Can Do Today for Children Ages 2-5 to Plant the Seeds of Lifelong Success. Dr. Klein has worked with parents and young children for nearly three decades. Her love of this age stems from a deep interest in the influences parents have on their children's earliest and most foundational development as well as the joy and curiosity of children. Her research looks at parenting challenges, including work and family; children’s play and emotional development; impact of parents and emotions on early learning and memory; and child trauma, including the impact of 9/11 on parents and young children. Her work focuses heavily on separation, need for security and emotional development.
Klein presents at professional conferences worldwide. She writes for and is frequently quoted in the media including NY Times, Washington Post, Today Show, NPR and numerous online venues. She has been called the ‘toddler whisperer’ by Good Morning America. She consults internationally to programs for young children, was a developmental advisor to Sesame Street, and is an advisor to Room to Grow, Ubuntu S. Africa, Children’s Museum of Manhattan, Hypothekids Harlem, and Hunts Point Alliance for Children. She lives in New York with her husband and 3 sons.
Connect with Tovah on her website, Facebook, and Twitter.
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