by Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD When it’s the season for browsing camp brochures, choosing travel teams, signing up for dance class and Tae Kwon Do, registering for swimming lessons, and picking a piano teacher, family life can get crazy. If we don’t prioritize “down time," we … [Read more...]
One Great Question to Ask a Babysitter
by Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD One great question to ask a babysitter in an interview or any time is: What do you feel (we) parents can do to help you do your job easier or better? This question tends to do a few things: It shows the potential babysitter that you are … [Read more...]
6 Month Phases with Young Children
by Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD Young children tend to go through phases that last about 6 months. For 6 months, things seem consistent, kids are mostly agreeable, and there is a natural ease to behavior and play. During this phase, kids enjoy safety, security, playing, and the … [Read more...]
Putting the “Happy” Back in Happy Hour with Young Children
by Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD When you have young children (especially more than one), getting dinner ready can be a real challenge. No matter when kids nap or what kind of snack they eat at 3 p.m., they all seem to get voraciously hungry, super tired, and very crabby in that … [Read more...]
Tips for a Hospital Stay with Babies or Young Children
by Erin Leyba, LCSW, PhD Being in the hospital with babies or young children who are sick or injured can be extremely stressful and scary for parents. It can be overwhelming to watch a child get stitches, an IV, surgery, a blood draw, or another invasive procedure. … [Read more...]