Denaye Barahona

Denaye Barahona is the voice behind Simple Families. Simple Families is a blog, podcast, and community that helps mothers thrive through simple living. Denaye has a Ph.D. in Child Development and has spent her career coaching families to more harmonious lives with young children. She lives in Texas with her husband and two children.

Child Learn & Play

25 phrases to inspire confidence in your child

5. "You can do hard things."

Toddler Learn & Play

Aggression in toddlers: 5 common reasons for hitting + biting

They are full of energy—that energy can overcome them and they start acting kind of crazy.

Parenting

The painless way to declutter your kid’s toys

It just takes five easy steps.

Home Decor

How I got rid of the clutter + overwhelm to achieve a more peaceful family life

I have chosen to trade chaos for calm.

Life

How to declutter when everything feels sentimental

The feelings and love will remain intact. We don't need to provide heirloom clothes and toys to feel this connection between the generations.

Life

How to host an easy, no-stress playdate

Once I perfected the art of the minimalist playdate, I felt up for having friends over much more often.

Parenting

10 calming phrases for children afraid of the dark

3. “How can I help you feel safe?”

Life

How to make mornings a calm start to your family’s day

As a mother, I know that my mood and demeanor are impactful on the people around me. This is especially true for my small children.

Child

Why children whine and how to gently stop them

Don’t be afraid to hug.

Career & Money

What if ‘hustling’ isn’t the goal? How to unlock the magic of slower living

What if you give up the battle of the “what-ifs” and the “to-dos” and traded them for a calm life?

Baby Milestones

Your children don’t need perfect baby books or photos. They just need you.

I decided my time and energy are not well spent dwelling in the past or being anxious of the future. My time is best spent being fully present today.

Life

It’s your job to love your kids + set limits—not to entertain them

I know from both a personal and a professional perspective that young children are better off without regular planned, parent-led activities.