When people hear “two year olds,” the phrase “terrible twos” is never far behind. Yet, as revealed in the latest episode of the Raising Innovators podcast, this age group presents a rich tapestry of growth, curiosity, and budding independence—if only we take the time to truly understand and guide them. Host Marnie Forestieri sits down with two-year-old teaching expert Genesis Areola to unpack the real stories, challenges, and joys of empowering toddlers toward emotional regulation, learning, and innovation.
Rethinking the “Terrible Twos”: Seeing Through the Lens of Empathy
Rather than bracing against the chaos associated with toddlers, Ms. Areola invites us to see the world from their perspective. Two-year-olds experience huge developmental leaps—they’re hungry for independence, yet lack the words and emotional tools to process big feelings, often leading to tantrums or challenging behaviors.
Ms. Areola recommends approaching discipline with empathy: “They don’t know how to express—sometimes when they’re sad, when they’re angry, they’re learning, they feel frustrated. … I try to put myself in their position.” Meeting children at eye level, offering comfort, and talking through emotions instead of resorting to punitive measures not only diffuses tension, it also lays the foundation for future emotional regulation.
Establishing Routines: The Foundation of Emotional Safety
A recurring theme in Ms. Areola’s approach is the power of predictability—a well-structured routine provides toddlers with much-needed security in a world that is, to them, ever-changing. “Once they have a set routine … they’ll have that security, they’ll know what’s coming next. Nothing will be a surprise to them and I think that helps a lot.”
Routine becomes the backbone of a successful two-year-old classroom (and home). When children know what to expect, anxieties decrease and the mind is freed for learning, playing, and exploring.
Encouraging Independence: Potty Training and Beyond
One of the defining developmental milestones for two-year-olds is the budding desire to do things themselves—from using the potty to dressing or feeding themselves. Genesis stresses the importance of recognizing readiness and supporting autonomy: “If they’re ready, they show signs…motivate them to continue that.”
She reminds parents that every child’s timetable is unique—there’s “no rush, there’s no late time for them to do it.” By allowing children to attempt tasks and make mistakes within a safe, supportive environment, we empower them to grow into confident, resourceful learners.
Hands-On Learning: The Secret Ingredient for Cognitive Growth
When it comes to learning, two-year-olds thrive on hands-on, sensory experiences. Ms. Areola structures her classroom around activities that engage little fingers and minds—shape-sorting for math, science projects, music and movement sessions that delight and energize. “A lot of hands-on activities, that’s for sure. A lot of sensory steam, science activities, gross motor activities and music which they love.”
She highlights the magic of music—from dancing to “Baby Shark” to playing instruments—explaining that movement and rhythm help with dopamine production (making children happy!), as well as cognitive, motor, and social development.
Social & Emotional Growth: Building Bonds and Friendships
Far from being merely self-centered, toddlers at this stage are discovering the joys of friendship. Through imaginative play, group activities, and gentle redirection, children begin to build their first relationships. Ms. Areola points out, “They love having their own little groups … when we do independent play, they go to different centers and then when their 10 minutes are up, they like to go to the next center with their same friends.” Teachers and parents can support this by encouraging kindness, sharing, and emotional language.
Supporting Parents: Bridging the Classroom and Home
Perhaps most crucially, Genesis Areola serves as a bridge between classroom strategies and home life. She keeps parents informed, ready with advice for the unique personalities and challenges every child brings. Strategies discussed—from analyzing tantrum triggers, providing safe outlets, embracing breathing techniques for calm, and offering real independence—translate seamlessly to the home environment.
Inspiring the Next Generation
This conversation is a powerful reminder: two-year-olds aren’t “terrible”—they’re innovators in the making, eager to love, create, and discover. By approaching them with empathy, structure, hands-on learning, and encouragement, we set them on a path toward not just academic success, but lifelong creativity, confidence, and connection.
To learn more and join a community dedicated to empowering young innovators, visit younginnovatorsacademy.com or subscribe to Raising Innovators on YouTube for more insights and practical inspiration.
About Young Innovators Academy
Young Innovators Academy is dedicated to preparing children for the future of work. With the launch of “Raising Innovators,” we aim to create a network of support and inspiration for those shaping the future, one child at a time.
