The holiday season often brings family, friends, and cherished memories together. But for some, especially children grappling with loss or difficult family situations, the season can be a painful reminder of what’s missing. Leah Yazmer understands this challenge and has dedicated her career to helping children navigate those emotions through her Madison-based private child life practice, Tranquility.

“This time of year can be a real trigger for people, especially children,” Leah says. “I try to help children who could be dealing with things like loss or a difficult family situation.”

One way Leah extends that help is through her annual Holiday Memory-Making Keepsake Group. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, Dec. 22, at the Lutheran Church in Madison from 4:30 to 6 p.m. It invites families and individuals of all ages to create ornaments and keepsakes as a way to cope with grief and express emotions.

Many of the ornaments include heartfelt messages to lost loved ones, offering a tangible outlet for remembrance and acceptance.

“What we have seen over the years is that this event really helps people cope and it also allows them closure,” Leah says. “These things that they may be going through can be tough to accept.”

Leah, a Madison native, returned to her hometown after earning her degree from Wheelock College in 2009. She spent 15 years at Yale New Haven Hospital, where she supported children and families through challenging times.

While her holiday event focuses on grief, her work addresses a wide range of issues children face. She also supports children dealing with the complexities of having a family member with mental illness.

“It can be really difficult for kids who may not understand a family member's diagnosis,” Leah says. “It helps them to be able to sit down and talk to someone about it so that they can better understand and help them.”

Leah’s practice also serves children dealing with anxiety, mood changes, behavioral challenges, and difficulties managing their thoughts and emotions.

In addition to running Tranquility, Leah works per diem at Yale University when needed. She lives in Madison with her husband, Devin, and their three children, including 10-year-old twin boys with autism. Her sons inspire her advocacy work in local schools, where she strives to improve inclusion and integrate children with special needs into everyday activities.

For more information on Leah’s services, including pricing and upcoming events like the Holiday Memory-Making Keepsake Group, visit tranquilityccls.com or follow Tranquility on Facebook and Instagram.