A Celebration of Families
- Tabi (they/them)
- 24 minutes ago
- 9 min read
April 2025 - Organization Pending Newsroom - Upper Arlington, Ohio
Welcome to Organization Pending's Newsroom, April 2025:
A Celebration of Families.
This month, we're celebrating National Baby Day and the International Day of Families in May with Community Recommendation Erin Flavin Parent Coach, including her Top Five Parenting Tips, and Organization Pending's Tips for Kids with Two Homes.
We're also celebrating National Small Business Month and National Home Improvement Month with Organization Pending resources to support your decluttering and organizing journey!
Don't miss Upper Arlington Updates for a discussion on the recent Sustainability Fair, including surprising statistics that could help you on your decluttering journey to Wear What You Love, and a reminder about the upcoming Earth Day Donation & Recycling Event!
Thank you for reading! Subscribe to receive the Newsroom in your email each month, and follow Organization Pending on Facebook and Instagram for local decluttering opportunities and home organizing tips!
If you have an upcoming event, resource, or professional the community should know about, contact Organization Pending.
Erin Flavin Parent Coach: Community Recommendation Highlight
May 2nd is National Baby Day, and May 15th celebrates International Day of Families!
"Parenting is a skill, just like learning to cook, drive, or start a new job. No one expects you to be an expert without practice, guidance, and support. We all need tools, strategies, and encouragement to grow into our best selves as parents. The truth is, asking for help is a sign of strength and bravery, not failure. Parenting is harder than ever, and asking for help is an investment in your family's well-being." -Erin Flavin, Certified Parent Coach
Did you know that
93% of parents say they feel overwhelmed at some point (Zero to Three, 2022).
7 in 10 parents admit they sometimes struggle with their child’s emotions more than their child does (Pew Research, 2023).
The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory (2023) highlighted a national mental health crisis, emphasizing that chronic stress, social isolation, and lack of emotional support are taking a toll on both parents and children.
Parents who received emotional coaching for their kids reported a 42% decrease in stress within six weeks (Harvard Center on the Developing Child).
Certified Parent Coach Erin Flavin, of Erin Flavin Parent Coach, hears a few common themes when parents first reach out. "I don't want to mess up my kid," "I know what I DON'T want to do, but I don't know what TO do instead," and "I feel like I'm in survival mode, just going from one meltdown to another." Says Flavin, "These feelings are normal, but they don’t have to define your parenting journey. These are just the feelings you've had up until now, but that doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. Many parents feel like they should just know what to do, but parenting has never been meant to be a solo journey. Change is possible, and support makes all the difference."
Growing up in Central Ohio, Flavin saw the need for professional parental support in her own childhood. "I was a highly sensitive child, but emotional validation wasn't a big part of my upbringing. As I got older, I realized how many parents wanted to connect with their kids but didn't have the tools to do so. I saw firsthand how overwhelmed parents were, especially when it came to emotions, tantrums, and breaking cycles from their own childhood." With her accumulated experience of working with 23 kids as a nanny, studying Human Development and Family Science at The Ohio State University, and earning certification through the Jai Institute for Parenting, Flavin's passion for "helping moms navigate the early years of parenting with confidence and connection" flourished into a virtual business, supporting local and international families. Although coaching and creating resources for parents keeps her busy, you can also find Flavin getting creative, "crafting whatever sparks inspiration in the moment, sending pen pal letters to my nephew, spending time with my husband and our little Cavalier, trying new baking recipes, or getting lost in a good fantasy novel. I also have a soft spot for all things cozy fun, like board games, RPGs, and the occasional themed movie night with friends."
For those unfamiliar with the Jai Institute for Parenting, Flavin explains their philosophy "focuses on transformational parenting. One of the biggest takeaways from my training was understanding how our own nervous system as parents impacts how we show up for our kids. If we were raised in an environment where emotions weren’t welcomed, we might struggle to handle our child’s big emotions now. That’s why my coaching isn’t just about what to do—it’s about who you are as a parent and how you can shift generational patterns in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming. My approach is all about fostering a deep, connected relationship with your child, while also maintaining structure and boundaries in a way that feels sustainable."
"I started my business because I knew parents needed support that was practical, effective, and compassionate. My coaching is about empowering moms to feel confident in their parenting approach, not prescribing a one-size-fits-all method. Together, we define their parenting by their values and find ways to handle chaotic moments based on what feels aligned with them and their child. This gives families a foundation that lasts beyond a lifetime!"
Primarily working with moms of young children, Flavin uses a 12-week Transformational Parenting Program that includes "structured lessons, guided exercises, moments for reflection, and tools to support parents in shifting their parenting approach at their own pace," that helps support and inform the 1:1 or group coaching sessions. Flavin explains, "1:1 coaching is ideal for parents who want deeply personalized guidance, a space to focus and process their own emotions, and a tailored plan for their family’s unique needs. Group coaching is great for parents who want a mix of coaching and community. Many moms feel isolated in their struggles, and hearing 'Oh wow, I’m not alone in this!' can be incredibly powerful." Unsure of what's right for you and your family? Schedule a free 30-minute connection call to explore your options.
"Inclusivity isn’t just a value I hold; it’s a commitment. It’s how I show up every day. I support all families, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, or background, in building strong, connected relationships. My work is LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodiversity-inclusive, and trauma-sensitive because every family deserves a parenting approach that truly honors who they are and the love they share."
Flavin recognizes diverse and inclusive family needs, with a specialty in supporting neurodivergent children. "Parenting a neurodivergent child can feel isolating, especially when traditional parenting advice doesn't fit. My approach helps moms understand their child's unique needs, while also giving them the tools to navigate big feelings, sensory overload, and emotional regulation in a way that truly supports both parent and child."
Erin Flavin Parent Coach's Top Five Parenting Tips:
Need a place to start today? Check out Erin Flavin Parent Coach's Top Five Parenting Tips!
Regulate yourself first – Your child’s brain takes cues from your nervous system. Deep breaths, grounding techniques, and self-care aren’t selfish. They’re essential. When you stay calm, you help your child learn to do the same.
Connection before correction – Kids listen better when they feel understood. Before disciplining, pause and listen. Try saying: “I see you’re feeling _____. Let’s figure this out together.” Instead of giving them the answer, guide them in finding their own solution. This builds confidence and emotional intelligence.
Tantrums aren’t manipulation – A meltdown is a sign that your child’s brain is overwhelmed, not that they’re trying to control you. Instead of punishing, be their anchor. Sit quietly with them, offer a calm presence, and let them process their feelings at their own pace. Your steady presence teaches them emotional regulation.
It’s okay to say no – Boundaries aren’t just for kids. Saying “no” to overwhelm, unrealistic expectations, or things that don’t align with your values makes space for more joy and connection. When you set a boundary, follow through. Consistency builds trust.
You don’t have to do this alone – Parenting was never meant to be a solo journey. Surround yourself with support—whether that’s family, friends, or a coach. Having a strong network reminds you that you’re not alone, and that support makes all the difference.
A note from Erin Flavin:
As a thank you for highlighting my work and to support local families in their parenting journey, I’m offering an exclusive 20% discount to Organization Pending’s community. Whether you’re looking for one-on-one coaching or group support through my 12-week Transformational Parenting program, this is my way of making support more accessible to families who are ready to create more connection, calm, and confidence in their parenting.
I’m also excited to share my free resource, 31 Days of Play—a printable guide packed with simple, connection-focused activities designed to make playtime effortless and meaningful. Play isn’t just for kids, it’s a powerful tool for strengthening relationships, reducing stress, and turning everyday moments into lasting magical memories.
To claim the discount, simply mention Organization Pending when booking a consultation or enrolling in a program. And don’t forget to grab your free 31 Days of Play guide to start creating more joyful moments with your little ones today!
Parenting doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming. Let’s make it more connected, more supported, and way more fun. Keep shining!
Find Erin Flavin Parent Coach:
Website: erinflavinparentcoach.com Schedule a Free Consultation: Work With Me
Contact: erinflavinparentcoach.com/contact Email: erin@erinflavinparentcoach.com
Starlight Parenting Blog: erinflavinparentcoach.com/blog
Facebook: Erin Flavin Parent Coach Instagram: erinflavin.parentcoach
TikTok: erinflavinparentcoach
Organizing Tips for Kids with Two Homes
Organization Pending's Owner/Operator Tabi (they/them) knows from personal experience how difficult it can be for kids to stay physically and mentally organized between school, activities and home - and that difficulty is multiplied when kids (and their caregivers) are trying to juggle all of those stressors between multiple homes.
Request your free copy of Organization Pending's Organizing Tips for Caregivers of Kids with Two Homes for two key zones in your home to implement today, straight from a home organizer's home.
National Small Business Month and National Home Improvement Month
May is National Small Business Month and National Home Improvement Month!
Are you a small business owner, or do you have a home office? A small business themselves, Organization Pending knows how important organization is for speeding up your daily, quarterly, and yearly processes.
Request your free copy of Organization Pending's Quick Tips for Home Offices for eight action items to keep your paperwork and office supplies tidy.
Are you thinking about home organizing as part of your home improvement goals? Visit the Resources page to request Emailed Printables on a variety of decluttering and organizing topics, including DIY Drawer Organizer Directions, Top Five Organizing Tips, Pre-Spring Cleaning Tips, three topic guides for Families in Conversation, and more!
Upper Arlington Updates
I had a great time at Upper Arlington Public Library's Sustainability Fair! I learned more about the library's online and print resources, found out about SWAG (Scioto Watershed Action Group), discovered that Sustainable UA is looking for local experts to take part in their Repair Café, said hello to Circular Thrift, and picked up a list of Easy Native Plants for Your Midwest Landscape from Columbus Garden School.
I also headed down for the keynote speaker, our friend at Columbus Fashion Academy, Priscila Teixeira! In her riveting presentation, How Fashion Impacts Our Planet & What We Can Do About It, Teixeira shared several fascinating and horrifying facts about the impact fashion has on our environment, and how fast fashion and an emphasis on buying new is helping to accelerate the damage.
We already have enough clothing to dress humanity for 250 years.
In the last 10 years, we've produced the same amount of clothing as we did in the 150 years previously.
Americans buy an average of 66 garments a year, and dispose of 85%.
I especially connected with Teixeira's saying, "Wear What You Love", and her explanation - it reminded me of the frequent conversations with clients who are unsure of how to let themselves let go. All of us should be able to walk into our closets and find things we want to put on our bodies - and our clothing shouldn't be something that holds shame. Most often, clients (and myself!) have the same limited number of items that get chosen as soon as they're clean, and they'll be worn with love until holes form. What if most - or even all - of your clothing made you feel that way?
Struggling to get started? With Organization Pending's in-person services, clients enjoy free donation takeaway of items that support Columbus Fashion Academy's sustainable fashion education, including clothing that's stained, ripped, or whole, sewing supplies and fabrics, and arts and crafts supplies.
Have items to donate right away? Stop by for the Earth Day Donation & Recycling Event on April 2, 11am-2pm, at 3360 Tremont Road. Organization Pending has teamed up with The Be Sanctuary and Northwest EyeCare Professionals, and The Benadum & Bumpus Group, with Coldwell Banker® Realty to offer this donation and recycling drop drop off event.
Recycle:
contact lenses
Donate to Habitat for Humanity®:
appliances in working order
gently used furniture
building materials
Donate to Columbus Fashion Academy:
laundered clothing, including stained/ripped items - no socks, shoes, or intimate apparel, please
accessories, including whole/broken jewelry
sewing and arts & crafts supplies
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