Ep.70: The New Rules of Parenting and Grandparenting Toddlers with Devon Kuntzman

Ever feel like your toddler is trying to break you? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re joined by the incredible Devon Kuntzman—toddler parenting expert and author of the brand new book Transforming Toddlerhood: How to Handle Tantrums and Power Struggles and Raise Resilient Kids Without Losing Your Mind. We dive into the real talk about toddler behavior, emotional regulation, and how we as parents can stay sane and connected in the chaos.Whether you’re in the thick of toddlerhood yourself, preparing for grandparenting, or just love understanding the "why" behind those tiny tornadoes, this conversation is packed with empathy, science-backed strategies, and hope. Devon gives us a totally refreshing reframe on discipline, tantrums, and screen time—and we also explore how much has changed (and how much hasn’t) in parenting over the decades. Episode Highlights:[0:00] Meet Devon and her just-launched book on toddlerhood [3:06] Redefining what “toddler” really means [4:33] What’s changed in the way we understand toddler behavior [7:48] Why toddler meltdowns aren’t bad behavior—they’re communication [9:47] Parenting styles: from controlling commander to confident guide [12:49] Real-world scenario: what to do when your toddler hits you [15:24] Teaching kids to cope with emotions instead of just punishing behavior [17:19] The importance of reparenting yourself while raising your child [18:24] How to avoid permissiveness while still setting healthy limits [21:08] It’s okay to be overwhelmed—and why repair is more powerful than perfection [25:00] Devon’s 4-step process for repairing relationships after a parenting slip [27:27] Generational gaps: parenting now vs. then [29:53] Navigating boundaries with your child and your parents [32:04] Real talk: toddlers and restaurants are not always a match [33:53] What’s the deal with screens? Devon breaks down screen time and brain health [35:32] Parenting isn’t passive—it’s the hardest job you’ll ever love [37:56] Self-compassion, strong-willed toddlers, and hilarious parenting fails [39:44] Final takeaways: discipline that connects, teaches, and sets limits Links and Resources: 🍼 Transforming Toddlerhood by Devon Kuntzman: https://www.transformingtoddlerhood.com/book/📲 Follow Devon on Instagram: @transformingtoddlerhood If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more! Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-bookRecognized by FeedSpot:Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts