About this episode

This episode discusses understanding toddlers as individuals in development rather than problems to manage.

The strength of even the smallest children is more than we imagine, but it must have a free play in order to reveal itself" - Maria Montessori Summary This episode focuses on understanding toddlers not as problems to manage, but as persons in a critical state of development who are striving for independence and learning how to function in the world. Through a Montessori-informed and Catholic lens, Maggie Radzik explains that much of what parents label as "misbehavior" is actually a child's natural growth process combined with limited emotional regulation. Her conversation with Mike and Alicia emphasizes that parents should shift from control to formation by observing their child, preparing an environment that supports success, and responding calmly—especially during tantrums, which are signs of overwhelm rather than defiance. The episode highlights that parenting toddlers is as much about the child's formation as it is about the parents' own growth in patience, humility, and intentionality, with a gentle reminder that even very young children can begin to encounter God through simple, peaceful experiences of faith. Key Takeaways Your toddler is not the problem - you are. You are…

People in this episode

Hosts: Mike Hernon, Alicia Hernon

Guest: Maggie Radzik

Topics covered

• toddlers
• parenting
• Montessori
• child development
• Catholic faith
• emotional regulation

Keywords

• toddlers
• parenting
• Montessori
• emotional regulation
• Catholic
• independence
• formation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Maria Montessori

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