My Latest Book (2025)

Ever wondered why your toddler suddenly hits or bites?

Or refuses to sleep?

Or throws a tantrum?

Or won’t share?

Or fights with a sibling...

...just when you could really do with a break! 😇

They're not trying to make your life difficult. They're sending you messages. Clues from their inner world. And they're sending them in the only way they know how.

They’re trying to tell you something they don’t yet have the words or the emotional tools to explain. And if you shift from reacting to what your child is doing to asking, “What are they trying to tell me?”, your parenting will change. You'll stop reacting to the behavior and start truly understanding your child.

By seeing your child’s behaviors as signals—not misbehavior—you’re able to respond with gentleness and calm. And that’s when the real connection happens.

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I’m a qualified early childhood teacher, mother of four, and now a grandmother. I’ve spent over 30 years working with thousands of children under five. In my new book, I reveal the reasons I have found behind preschooler behaviours—and share the positive, nurturing, and respectful strategies that have worked for me (and still do).

More About My Book

Inside you'll discover how to:

Find the “why” behind your child’s behavior—from big feelings like anger and defiance to quirky moments like swearing, body curiosity, or their endless “Why?” questions—so you can respond with empathy and insight.
Apply gentle, proven strategies to handle everyday challenges like fussy eating, bedtime battles, boredom, potty learning, and emotional daycare drop-offs—bringing more calm and confidence to your parenting.
Feel more grounded and connected in your parenting approach as you build a calmer and respectful relationship with your child—based on guidance, not control.
Turn everyday routines and play into rich opportunities for learning, bonding, and celebrating your child’s unique personality and growth.

This isn’t a parenting "textbook"—it’s a practical, go-to guide for all those baffling moments that have you asking yourself, “What just happened?” or “Was that normal?” With 62 chapters arranged alphabetically in a concise, jargon-free format, you can dip in and out whenever you need answers.

See the Table of Contents

Who Is The Book For?

Parents, caregivers, and educators of toddlers and preschoolers (ages 1–5) who want less frustration and more connection in their daily interactions.

Image of There Is Alway a Reason spread open to show inside pages

When you start looking for the “why,” everything shifts. You become empowered. You’re no longer just reacting to the moment—you’re responding with calm and clarity. Understanding the “why” connects you with your child, so you can guide them with empathy and confidence. —Maria

Discover the “why” behind their behavior, transform your parenting, and build a deeper connection—one understanding moment at a time.

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Read sample chapters...