🎙️ Why “No” Doesn’t Work—And What to Say That Actually Does

Why does “no” stop working with toddlers—and what should you say instead?

In this episode, Dr. Cathryn breaks down why “no” becomes background noise, what to say that actually works, and how small language shifts can transform power struggles into cooperation.

You’ll learn:

• Why toddlers tune out “no”

• Simple swaps that get better results

• Real-life examples you can use today

Ready to go deeper? Check out the Big-Hearted School of Parenting for practical, loving strategies that make parenting easier.

RESOURCES:

• Follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram:⁠@healthiest_baby⁠
• Join Dr. Cathryn's live workshop, Help! My Child Will Only Poop in a Diaper, and get a proven, pediatrician-backed plan to finally move past the diaper-to-potty standoff—for good.

Sponsors for this episode:

Acorns Early

OSEA

Toddlers Made Easy online course

Potty Training Made Easy online course

The Big-Hearted Sleep Solution mini-class

Toddlers Made Easy book

200 Big-Hearted Scripts

FREE WORKSHOP: Potty Without Pushback

FREE GUIDE: 5 Must-Dos Before Starting Potty Training

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Cathryn on Instagram.