Hi Friend!

Hi, I’m Gretchen—your go-to guide for navigating the early years of parenting with intention and play. As the world’s first Toy Correspondent and a play-based learning specialist with over 25 years of experience, holding a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, I help parents cut through the overwhelm to raise confident, capable, and curious kids by understanding which toys teach which skills.

Many parents feel pressured to focus on early academics, believing that introducing ABCs and 123s as soon as possible is the key to their child’s success. However, research shows that play is not just a break from learning; it is the foundation of learning itself. Through play, children develop essential skills such as problem-solving, language acquisition, and social competence, which are crucial for their overall development and future academic success.

I believe we’re all doing our best, and when we learn more, we can do even better. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to empower parents of toddlers and young children with the tools and knowledge to make intentional choices about play and development.

My signature framework, The Thriving Toddler, is designed to give you everything you need to confidently support your 1–5-year-old during their most critical years of growth. It’s a simple, proven system that helps you understand your child’s developmental needs, choose the right toys, and create meaningful play routines that build essential life skills.

My ultimate goal is for you to feel joy and confidence as you parent with purpose, knowing that every moment of intentional play strengthens your child’s abilities and your bond.

Every aspect of The Thriving Toddler is packed with practical knowledge and easy-to-follow guidance, helping you make informed decisions without second-guessing. This framework is your roadmap to raising happy, thriving kids while making the early years less stressful and more fun.

If you’re here, you’re part of the ripple. You’re showing up for your child, and I’m so grateful to be part of your journey.

Let’s raise thriving toddlers together!