Grace•Grit•Growth Counseling

11/20/2025

Feeling grateful for the opportunity today to share information on PCEs (Protective Childhood Experiences) and how they help build strong brain architecture, resilience, and positively impact lifelong health outcomes.

A huge thank-you to all the community stakeholders who joined us in conversation about how we can continue making a positive impact for children and families throughout Brookings County.

Together, we can support the potential of all of our community members; creating a stronger, healthier future for Brookings.

11/19/2025

Well, today’s advice on “taking a moment” such as listening to the sounds around you, taking a breath, or thinking of memories that bring you joy, is brought to you by Jonathan Bailey and Elmo. ❤️💙

11/16/2025

Research shows that play is not just fun, it is a powerful way for littles to build problem-solving skills. Whether they are stacking blocks, role-playing, or figuring out a new game, play helps children experiment, think creatively, and learn how to overcome challenges.

Grateful for the Children's Museum of South Dakota providing lots of innovative and fun ways for our local littles to practice these skills!

11/15/2025

The public library is an easy and inexpensive way to keep your children excited about reading.

Research shows that simply rotating the books kids have access to can spark new curiosity and boost reading time. The library makes it easy, check out a fresh stack and watch their excitement grow.

Here are some of my favorite social and emotional learning books for 0-5:

❤️ Llama Llama Feelings: https://amzn.to/4pc7qiI
🧡 The Pigeon Has Feelings Too: https://amzn.to/4p5mDSG
💛 Daniel Makes a Mistake: https://amzn.to/43xQcUJ
💚 Daniel Gets Scared: https://amzn.to/3LzpfKa

11/14/2025

🤱 Postpartum Visitors. Setting Boundaries with Love

You deserve peace and recovery after birth. Before baby arrives, talk with your partner about what kind of visits you’re comfortable with.

💡Some ideas:
🚪 “Short and sweet visits only.”
🕰️ “No drop-ins — text first.”
💗 “Visitors help with a chore before holding the baby.”

Boundaries aren’t rude — they’re self-care.

🪴Becoming Birth Services helps families feel empowered and supported every step of the way.

11/12/2025

👏👏👏

11/03/2025

Please see the Brookings Area United Way post below for all local food resources in Brookings County.

Starting November 1st, changes to SNAP benefits may make it harder for some community members to afford food. The Brookings Basic Needs Task Force encourages anyone in need of food to seek help from local food entities and meal programs.

** Updates as of 11/5/25 - Please visit our Basic Needs Task Force webpage at https://brookingsunitedway.org/basic-needs-task-force/ for the latest updates on our food guide, additional community food resources and efforts in Brookings County.

11/03/2025

Kids (and adults) often focus better when their hands are busy. Shout out to these silicon fidget mazes that can support focus, self-regulation, and can help calm the nervous system.

Here’s how they help:
Tactile Input
Focus
Rythmic Movement
Portable & Quiet

I’ve included a link for a set that’s 20% off!

Discover the PushPeel Sensory Activity Board – a humble creation designed in NY to offer a tech-less alternative for families seeking simple, satisfying play. It's not just a toy; it's a parental aid that supports developmental growth and fosters moments of joy and tranquility. Designed with care....