“Beyond The Basics of Toddler Development,” is a special branch of our business that is dedicated to providing support and education for parents of toddlers & preschoolers.  We believe parents who understand what is happening with their child cognitively, socially and emotionally at various ages of development are better able to connect with and guide their child as he/she grows.

We aim to go beyond just telling parents how to do something and seek to explain why behavior is occurring.

The toddler years can be defined by one word: Transition. Your child is rapidly changing and moving through many aspects of development.  Language is exploding, a need for control and independence is blooming, he/she faces weaning from comfort items (the breast, bottle, paci,) begins potty training, moves out of the crib, starts preschool or a separation program and often times welcomes a new sibling.  Along with these changes, parents also see their first glimpses of limit testing and acting out behaviors which then requires some sort of discipline…but what to do?  How do we react?

These early developmental years are crucial in establishing a connection with our toddlers.  We have to literally and figuratively “coach” our children through the many transitions they are facing and give them the language to express themselves.  We have to help them build coping skills and provide the scaffolding and support that they will need to grow into confident, independent and well-adjusted little people.

Parenting a toddler is an overwhelming task which can be extremely difficult to navigate, especially for first time parents.  However, this time in early parenthood can also be rewarding and unforgettable once you learn necessary skills and build your understanding of your toddler and his/her needs.

Ready to take control, build your parenting skills and become more in tune to your child?  We hope so!

We offer a variety of different ways in which you can receive support.  Join us for our popular Toddler Parenting Skills Series, or check out our individual Services.  We also offer private support groups where you an get a group of friends together who have similar aged children and we discuss relevant issues and concerns together.

Not in New York City?  Not a problem!  We frequently conduct sessions via the phone or skype or you can also call in to one of our Webinars.  However you choose to seek support, do it now.  Let this year be the year you begin to feel empowered and confident about your parenting skills!

Praise for Beyond The Basics

“I attended Rachel’s “Beyond the Basics” series last summer and just after the first workshop on Toddler-ese, I saw such a significant difference in my son’s behavior. Tantrums, meltdowns and power struggles dissolved in SECONDS!  It was truly amazing and has changed the language I use every day.  YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS IT!”-Julia T. (2.5 year old, 14 month old)

“Rachel Cedar’s “Beyond the Basics” workshops provided me with a sigh of relief!  Rachel breaks things down in a very relatable and user friendly way.  She uses examples of scenarios from the attendees as well as her own personal experience, this makes for a tactile and entertaining lecture.  I was able to leave each session and apply Rachel’s suggestions immediately with great success.  This series is a must for any parents of a toddler.  Best of all it left me with reassurance that I was already doing a great job, and doesn’t every parent need some kudos?!  The bonus was that I received concrete advice in tweaking things to benefit my daughter even more.  Thanks Rachel, you are a gem! ” -Terri (2.5 year old)

“I have had the pleasure of attending three of Rachel’s private group seminars. It’s a great way to spend a “mom’s night in” with a group of girlfriend’s while getting great tips from a super knowledgeable lady on whatever the chosen topic is, discipline, sibling preparation, etc. The seminars themselves have been very helpful to me but even more impressive is Rachel’s follow up. She is always available via email or phone with additional advice if you are in a bind. She was even kind enough to take the time to email me some lengthy advice from her vacation when my daughter was getting out of her bed at night! What a godsend! I look forward to the next opportunity to sit in on one of her sessions. Even when I don’t think I need the help, I always walk away with some useful tips.”-Deirdre (2.5 year old)

See more Testimonials here.