How to Teach Joy, with Joy Robertson

What if joy isn’t just something you feel—but something you can learn, teach, and live by? This week on The Robyn Ivy Podcast, I’m joined by the extraordinary Joy Robertson, a lifelong early childhood educator, mentor, author, and joy-sparker. 

Together, we explore how to cultivate joy, not just for kids, but for ourselves, through play, presence, and the simple magic of showing up as we are. 

From emotional regulation to parenting (even inner parenting) with self-compassion, Joy shares heartfelt stories and powerful tools to support both children and adults in living with more connection, curiosity, and intention. We talk about community, healing, asking for help, and the transformative power of nature, creativity, and co-regulation. 

This episode is a love letter to your inner child and a reminder that joy is always within reach.

 3 Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Joy Is Teach-able (and Necessary): Whether you’re a parent, educator, or human navigating life, joy can be modeled and nurtured—through play, connection, and simplicity.
2. Ask for Help, Build Community: Reaching out isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Co-regulation, feedback, and honest conversations create healing and growth.
3. Presence > Perfection: Being grounded, honest, and real is far more powerful than getting it “right.” Joy reminds us that authenticity and love go further than any rulebook.

 💫 Want to go deeper and learn more about nurturing joy in yourself and others? Grab Joy’s book How to Teach Joy. Visit teacherofjoy.com for her heartfelt guide to raising healthy, happy kids (and grownups too).

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast — And if this episode moved you, please leave a review or share it with someone who could use a spark of joy today.

💫 If you’re ready for your next chapter—and want a guide who honors your depth, humor, and vision—I’m here to help.

👉 Book a free coaching consult or learn more at robynivy.com

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MORE ABOUT JOY ROBERTSON:

Joy Robertson, lovingly known as Teacher Joy, is a nationally respected Child Development Specialist who has spent over 25 years helping families, educators, and communities raise thriving, joyful children. Her work is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be understood, supported, and celebrated—especially neurodivergent learners.

Joy’s journey began as a young mother searching for what her child needed. That curiosity ignited a lifelong passion for early childhood education, leading her to study with legendary teachers, co‑create multiple high‑quality learning centers, and eventually found TEAMS Learning Center, honored as the NCW Chamber’s Non‑profit of the Year.

A beloved mentor and speaker, Joy has trained hundreds of teachers, championed play‑based learning, and rallied communities to support children with compassion and creativity. She is the author of How to Teach Joy: A Simple Guide to Nurturing a Child’s Development and continues to inspire parents and educators nationwide.

Find out more at https://teacherofjoy.com/

http://instagram.com/teacherjoyrobertson/

https://www.facebook.com/enjoyrobertson