The Center for Childhood Development

11/24/2025

Today we’re smiling as we think back to all the little blue sharks, adorable bumblebees, princesses, and Hogwarts students who joined us for Trunk or Treat this year! We’re so grateful for our staff, volunteers, and families for the dedication they bring that makes this event, and every day, a meaningful reminder of why we do what we do. 💖

11/21/2025

We’ve been thinking a lot about gratitude lately. We’re so grateful to be able to serve our communities and to support the incredible children and families who trust us every day. 💛

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your stories, your breakthroughs, and your victories, big and small. Your resilience inspires us, your progress motivates us, and your partnerships mean the world. 🫶

We’re honored to do this work, and we’re grateful for each of you. 🙏

11/17/2025

Mealtimes shouldn’t be stressful. If your child has difficulty swallowing, VitalStim® Therapy could make a real difference! ✨ This specialized form of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is used to support children with dysphagia and help improve swallowing function.

The Center has two therapists certified in VitalStim®: Megan Zielinski, MA, CCC-SLP and Cara Weber, MS, OTR/L. They provide this therapy at our Holland and Jenison locations.

If you think your child might benefit, let’s talk! Send us a message or give us a call to learn more or schedule an evaluation.

📸 Abi Rodriguez. You can find her on Instagram .rod.riguez

11/14/2025

We’re excited to welcome Jaclyn, our newest Occupational Therapist, to the Jenison clinic team! She joined us in September, and we couldn’t be happier to have her on board. ❤️ Please join us in giving Jaclyn a warm welcome! 👋

Jaclyn is passionate about supporting families in understanding their child's unique strengths and needs to help each child achieve the best quality of life. She believes in a child-led approach, creating sessions that are motivating, engaging and fun. Her goal is to empower both children and their families with the tools and confidence they need to thrive.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, hiking, practicing yoga and spending time with her dog and cat. 🐾🐾

11/12/2025

✨Sometimes the best therapy happens in the coziest corners!✨

Today our OT friend built a fort under the trampoline — a perfect safe space to regroup, regulate, and recharge. 🔋

This creative hideaway fosters imaginative play, heavy work input, and self-awareness, helping kids tune into what their bodies and minds need. 💪💛

11/11/2025

Kindness is free…pass it on!

To celebrate Kindness Week, we’d like to share a special printable poster with you. Hang it in your home or classroom as a gentle reminder to spread kindness whenever you can.

Download the poster:https://www.fredrogersinstitute.org/files/resources/150/Kindness-Poster.pdf

If you’d like to help the Fred Rogers Institute continue Fred’s legacy of kindness and compassion, we invite you to join the 143 Club or make a donation today: https://www.fredrogersinstitute.org/donate

10/31/2025

The Kalamazoo crew wishes you a spooktacular Halloween! If you're trick or treating tonight, stay safe. 🎃👻

10/30/2025

So much joy, laughter, and fun at our Trunk or Treat this year! 🎃
We love creating spaces where all kids can be themselves—free to move, explore, and engage in ways that honor their needs.
Thank you to our staff, volunteers, and families for making this event such a heartwarming reminder of why we do what we do! 💜

10/30/2025

We work closely with family and caregivers during treatment. ❤️ Everyone will be learning and growing together - strengthening relationships and giving you the tools to nurture their potential.

10/29/2025

Throwback to this conversation had with one of our kiddos…
Kiddo: "Do you know I work here?"
Caitlyn: "What’s your job?"
Kiddo: "PLAY!"
Work disguised as play. 🥸 We love this. ❤️

10/28/2025

Kiddos are invited to dress up for Halloween if they have a session on Friday, October 31. We can't wait to see what they have in store for us.

10/27/2025

Does your child have trouble speaking or use AAC? Try the FREE IssieSays app by Beit Issie Shapiro Use your smart phone for Trick or Treating success this Halloween!

Great for quick “on the go” messages

• Create 1-4 buttons
• Use white or black background
• Search for images or use your own
• Record audio
• Available on iOS or Android
• Search “IssieSays”
• HOLD THE SETTINGS ICON DOWN for 5 secs to program!