Episode #20: Why Is My Toddler So Frustrated? (And What Can I Do to Help?)

In this episode of Talk It Out, Carly and Katie are tackling a topic that so many families face: toddler frustration—especially when it’s linked to speech and language delays. If you’ve ever watched your child melt down because they can’t quite say what they’re trying to express, you are far from alone. 

This episode explores why late talkers tend to show more frequent or intense frustration and how parents can both understand and support them.

Carly and Katie, pediatric speech language pathologists, explain the natural mismatch that often happens in toddlers who understand more than they can say—and how this gap can lead to outbursts, shutting down, or behaviors like hitting and biting. 

They share practical ways to recognize when frustration is rooted in communication challenges and offer clear, compassionate guidance for what to do in the moment and outside the moment to help.

You’ll learn how to model simple language, use sign support, validate emotions, and create more calm and connection—while still holding important boundaries. 

Carly and Katie also talk about why dysregulation makes language harder, and how showing up as a calm, responsive presence can go a long way. Reminder for you: if your toddler is struggling, it’s not your fault—and there’s so much you can do to help.

 

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Speech + Language Milestone Checklist, a helpful resource for understanding what’s typical at each stage of toddler development, and how to know when it might be time for extra support. You can download it at weetalkers.com/toddler.
• Social emotional book recommendations –  Bookshop.org | Amazon
• Songs+Stories Membership – A high-quality screen-time option that encourages language and literacy through engaging storytime videos.
• TalkToddler Course – Help your toddler say more words and improve their communication.