Is this for you?
If your toddler keeps struggling with direction, "I do it myself" standoffs, body care tasks, being moved before they are ready, and instructions that stop landing — not as an occasional difficult day, but as a repeating pattern — this guide is built for that exact situation.
Take a closer look
Understanding power struggles — what the pattern is, what drives the collision, and what tends to make it worse
The 5 patterns: resistance to direction, control collisions, body-care tasks, being moved, and instruction overload
What tends to help for each pattern — guidance specific to each kind of standoff
Practical wording for each pattern, including body care, being moved, and instruction overload
Power Struggles Quick Response Card — a five-pattern matrix with a Do response and example phrase for each
Why this helps
The Playbook helps you identify which kind of power-struggle moment you are in — resistance to direction, a control collision, body care, being moved before they are ready, or instruction overload — and where support may need to begin.
It is designed for real daily life: getting dressed, brushing teeth, moving on before your toddler is ready, instructions that keep not landing. Quick to scan when the moment is already happening.
What makes this different
Not every standoff is asking for the same response. A child overwhelmed by stacked instructions needs something different from a child resisting body care, being moved before they are ready, or trying to keep control of a task.
The Playbook helps you identify the collision underneath the standoff, so you can reduce the pressure making that specific moment harder — instead of repeating a response that does not fit.
Tilly helps you consider the toddler side of the pattern. The guide gives you practical ways to respond.
Ready to get started
Get The Power Struggles Playbook
Practical support for the moments when adult direction and toddler resistance keep colliding.
Launch price
$15
After purchase
- Receive instant digital access
- Open the guide on your phone, tablet, or computer
- 16-page digital guide
- One-time purchase
- Designed for phone or desktop use
Before you buy
Good to know
Is this for parents or educators?
For parents. It is designed for everyday household moments — getting dressed, brushing teeth, being moved — not for professional settings.
Is this about discipline?
No. It is about understanding what is driving the collision so you can respond in a way that reduces it.
What age is this best for?
Broadly 1–4 years.
How do I receive it?
Instantly after purchase. You will be able to access the digital guide immediately.
Can I use this in the moment?
Yes. It is designed to be easy to scan and use quickly.
What if my child has more than one difficulty?
Start with the pattern that is causing the most friction right now.
Other guides
Need support with a different toddler moment?
If this isn’t the moment you’re dealing with right now, you can explore another focused guide.
Educational support notice: toddlersTellUs resources are educational supports for adults. They are not a substitute for individualized medical, psychological, therapeutic, diagnostic, legal, emergency, or crisis support. If you are worried about your child’s safety, development, or wellbeing, please seek support from a qualified professional.