Inspiring Terrific Toddlers 1: Why Do They Do That? Promoting Toddler Development to Reduce Frustrating Behaviors by Raelene Ostberg

Toddlers are curious, energetic, and full of joyful discoveries. And, their intense emotions, impulsive behavior, and constant drive to explore can also leave adults feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Why do toddlers push, grab, scream, or demand attention? What are they trying to communicate through these behaviors? And how can adults respond in ways that support development, reduce frustration, and encourage positive behaviors?

In this engaging and practical session, participants will explore how typical toddler development influences behaviors that adults may find challenging. They will examine what toddlers are learning through these behaviors and how responsive adult interactions can support their social-emotional development.

Through relatable stories, video examples, and real-life classroom experiences, participants will explore three practical strategies for engaging toddlers and supporting positive development. The session will examine ways to strengthen connection during everyday interactions, create a sense of security by serving as a responsive “secure base,” and use supportive communication strategies, including Toddler-ese, to help toddlers express and navigate strong emotions. Participants will also explore toddler-specific transition songs that can support co-regulation, cooperation, and engagement.

These practical strategies can help reduce frustration, strengthen positive interactions, and create learning environments in which toddlers feel secure, connected, and ready to explore.

Educators will leave with practical tools they can use to increase connection, cooperation, and joy while supporting the emotional self-regulation skills toddlers need to thrive.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Describe at least two developmental needs that may contribute to common challenging toddler behaviors.

2. Demonstrate responsive interaction strategies, including supportive language, that can be used to empathize with and assist toddlers during emotionally challenging moments.

3. Apply at least one evidence-informed strategy to support toddler co-regulation, reduce frustrating behaviors, and promote positive engagement.