Psyched About Kids is a platform where parents, educators and therapists can find practical information, tools, and learning networks that focus on healthy child development.
The Psyched About Kids philosophy is based on a heart-centred approach to parenting and uses strategies from the latest brain science research.
A warm, supportive, and trusting relationship between caregiver and child, a consistently nurturing environment and stimulating interactions forms the ultimate foundation for raising happy, successful children, youth and adults.
We provide the knowledge, techniques and tools to take you down the parenting path in the most successful way possible.
Mission
To promote healthy child development by making brain science accessible and practical.
Vision
Every parent acquires and implements the knowledge to help optimize their child's development.
Meet our Child Development Specialists
Joanna Piekarski
Joanna is originally from Toronto, Ontario. She completed her undergraduate degree in psychology from York University. She started in the field of child development as a behavioural therapist where she gained valuable experience and acquired knowledge of proactive behavioural strategies.
She became interested in learning more about brain science research and attachment-based interventions and continued her studies at the University of Toronto, completing a Masters Degree in Education, specializing in developmental psychology.
Joanna is currently a Registered Psychologist in Calgary, Alberta.
Lara Higgins
The journey of parenting is humbling, one of ongoing learning, self-reflection and personal growth. With children now 17 and 21, the journey continues!
With a background in financial services, Lara’s children were young when she shifted careers and started channeling her energy into supporting child development at CUPS in Calgary. With a passion for building strong families and communities, she has spent the last 11 years absorbing and applying core research to early childhood learning and brain development.
With her partner Jo, taking scientific knowledge and translating into practical and simple tips, tools and strategies that can have a powerful positive impact on parent child relationships and healthy child development is her passion.
