Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD

Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD is an individual and marriage counselor in Chicago's western suburbs. www.erinleyba.com. She is the author of Joy Fixes for Weary Parents: 101 Quick, Research-Based Ideas for Overcoming Stress - and Building a Life You Love (New World Library). Join her on Facebook or Instagram or sign up at www.erinleyba.com to get free articles on parenting with mindfulness and joy.

The Holidays

5 ways parents can make space (physically and mentally) in the new year

And it has nothing to do with resolutions.

Child Sleep

Why the bedtime ritual is a powerful moment of connection with your kids

Bedtime is perfect for providing the quiet space needed for kids to use their voices, express themselves, talk about doubts or fears, tell you about silly things that happened or share their favorite parts of the day.

Life

Seasonal affective disorder is real—8 ways to feel better, mama

6. Get (at least) 10 minutes of fresh air

Child Learn & Play

It’s science: Having a routine helps your family be happier

We’re all in.

Health & Wellness

It’s science: Kids whine for a (very good) reason

Remind yourself, “This whine is an urgent request for a resource or comfort.”

Parenting

4 powerful ways to ‘set the vision’ for your family’s day

When you muster your own positivity about the day’s events, your kids will pick up on your emotions.

Parenting

Make your kid’s bedtime routine easier—and go faster—with these 5 tips

It doesn’t have to be a battle.

The Holidays

Find grace in the chaos of Christmas, mama

The one thing that’s up to you is to find the grace hiding in the corners of the day.

Parenting

How to make chores fun + joyful for your child

Turn them into ‘meaningful roles’ or ‘special jobs’!

Life

Use the holidays to boost your relationship—not stress it out

5. Give each other some leeway... and tenderness

Child Learn & Play

The simple yet powerful way to get your kids to cooperate

Relationship before request

Life

How to help boost the bond between your partner and your kids

Dad is going to love this card we’re making for him with Cheerios and glue!