Mission
We translate child development science into creative, mindful guidance that builds adult capacity and supports children’s optimal development.
Vision
Every child grows up in an environment that helps them reach their potential.
Values
Creativity, leadership, fun, competence, diversity and science.
Meet The Team
With over a decade supporting Alberta families, and childcare professionals, Psyched About Kids has evolved to meet the needs of our community. We’re excited to introduce our team members who offer mobile, in-home and virtual support, allowing us to work with families where behaviours, regulation, and learning happen in real time.Â
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Meet The Founders
Joanna Piekarski
Joanna (or "Jojo" - as the children she works with playfully refer to as) has been obsessed with how children’s brains develop for over a decade now and her experience in the field confirms this. While completing her undergraduate studies in psychology at York University, she started working as a behavioural therapist where she first dipped her toes in the field. Jo completed her graduate studies in developmental psychology at the University of Toronto and her post graduate fellowship at the University of Massachusetts Boston in infant-parent mental health where she learned directly from the gurus in the field of child mental health. From behavioural therapy to agency work at a non-profit, to conducting research at the University of Calgary, to starting her own clinical practice as a registered psychologist - one thing rings true: Jo is absolutely passionate in helping caregivers reflect on new ways to approach parenting. Her hope is for caregivers to learn these strategies in an engaging and collaborative way that ultimately benefits not only the child, but the whole family!
Lara Higgins
The parenting journey is wonderfully humbling and full of ongoing self-reflection, personal growth, and lifelong learning. With children now well into adulthood, Lara's parenting journey continues!
Lara has spent over two decades supporting children and families, drawing on the science behind child development and the everyday realities of family life. Specializing in Learning and Technology, she creates engaging, science-based learning experiences that support family wellness and build the capacity of the adults who guide children’s development and growth—including parents and child development professionals. Her work focuses on turning research into practical, approachable support that helps adults feel more confident and capable in their caregiving roles.
Alongside her partner Jo, Lara is passionate about translating science into simple tools, thoughtful programs, and creative learning experiences that strengthen parent–child relationships and support healthy child development.
