Mar 17
13m 50s
What if toddlers are actually listening—but simply choosing a response we didn’t expect?
This episode redefines what it truly means for toddlers to “listen,” challenging the common belief that listening equals immediate compliance. I explain the four steps of active listening and highlight that a child may listen yet still choose not to follow a direction. I emphasize that adults can shift expectations and reduce power struggles with toddlers.
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March 17, 2026
Episode 316
Why Won't Toddlers Listen? The 4 Steps to Active Listening- Little Linguists Series Part 8
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 forthcoming book Talk to Them Early and Often, a guide for raising emotionally intelligent kids who thrive in school and life.
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