The Mind of a Child

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Does your toddler hit when frustrated, resisting the car seat, or struggling with big emotions? In this episode we break down this common toddler behavior, offering gentle yet firm discipline strategies, positive reinforcement techniques, and faith-based wisdom to guide your little one toward self-control and respect. From setting firm limits to recognizing foolishness in your child, this episode is packed with practical tools for parents who want to discipline their children with gentleness, love, and authority.

3 Takeaways:

1. Hitting is a natural toddler behavior, but firm, loving guidance helps them learn self-control.
2. Set clear limits and redirect behavior using simple, positive instructions (e.g., “Hands in your lap”).
3. Biblical discipline is about heart change, not just behavior correction—guide children toward wisdom and self-control through faith, patience, and consistency.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome & Listener Question

[05:20] The 4-Step Approach to Addressing Hitting

[12:45] Understanding Toddler Behavior & Root Causes

[18:30] Teaching Through Play & Gentle Correction

[24:10] The Biblical Perspective on Foolishness & Self-Control

[30:00] Encouragement for Parents: Disciplining with Faith

[35:15] Preview of Next Episode

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast:
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The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.