What if giving children more choice is actually the key to better behavior and deeper connection?

In this episode I celebrate the Week of the Young Child, highlighting the importance of early learning and the communities that support it. Through real-life moments, I demonstrate how offering children permission, rather than control, can transform their willingness to participate and feel safe. I offer a powerful reminder that when we shift our responses, children naturally begin to engage, connect, and thriveReady to take the next step to start being on the same team as your kids and watch their behavior and their choices change?

I would love for you to go check out my Transforming   the Toddler Years Course. Six modules, one massive transformation rooted in the psychology of human connection and the science of early language and behavior management. Learn more about it here!

April 14, 2026

Episode 322

What to Say When Kids Refuse - Expectation vs. Permission Based Statements

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.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Want to book Cara for your next speaking event? Find all the details ⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!