Hello

I AM ABLE started with a single idea and has since blossomed into a suite of diverse programs, each designed to meet the unique needs of families. As we listened to our Northern Adelaide community and responded to their needs, our offerings naturally expanded. We hold firmly to the philosophy of:

"See a need, respond to that need…and do so with creativity and care”,

Our Story

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

I AM ABLE was born from my heartfelt desire to find creative ways to engage my children, Abe, Mila and now our most recent addition, Zelie. While developing our first program, ‘Wiggle & Giggle’, I realised I wanted to extend this adventure beyond my family. My goal was to offer creative opportunities for parent-child connection to other young families in our community. As a mother and a professional with over 18 years of experience, I sought to blend my expertise with my passion for meaningful family connections. My background in social sciences, infant massage and parent education, trauma informed practice, overseas developmental assistance, perinatal mental health, and extensive community work, continues to influence the way in which I intentionally approach young families in my community.

Inspired by my own parenting journey, I realised the profound need for programs that not only provide space for parent-child connection but do so in an informed and tailor-made way. I believe that engaging families can be a cleverly intentional, meaningful, and creative experience. Programs don’t have to be boring or complicated; they can be thoughtful, vibrant, and simple to engage with.

"See a need, respond to that need…and do so with creativity and care”,

This ensures our programs are not only engaging and meaningful but also aligned with the wants and needs of our young family demographic.

Our passion for creativity and community drives everything we do at I AM ABLE. We are dedicated to providing innovative and inclusive programs that foster well-being, connection, and growth for every family. Our journey is one of listening, adapting, and continually striving to make a positive impact, one family at a time.

Founder Bio

MEET MEL G

Melissa Grierson is a passionate and dedicated professional with an extensive background in social sciences and community services. She holds a Bachelor of Social Science and is an internationally certified Infant Massage Practitioner.

Melissa has over 18 years of experience working with children, young people under guardianship, families, educators, and individuals from marginalised or vulnerable backgrounds. For the past five years, she has focused specifically on supporting young families in the perinatal and early childhood space.

With a holistic approach to care, Melissa has pursued further training in areas such as birth trauma and debrief, perinatal mental health, Keyword Sign, Marte Meo, and Kids Yoga. Her work is informed by a strong developmental lens, particularly in the first five years of life — a season where early relationships and responsive care shape lifelong wellbeing.

Melissa has worked closely with young mothers under the guardianship of the Chief Executive; Department for Child Protection, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, families from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, and others navigating adversity.

Her commitment to making a meaningful impact also extends internationally. She played a key role in developing play programs and training staff and volunteers at a vital babies’ home in Uganda. She also volunteers her time creating inclusive story and song resources for National Key Word Sign Australia.

Outside of her professional life, Melissa is married to Nathan and the loving mother of Abraham, Mila, and Zelie. She is known for her creativity, warmth, and ability to design flexible, accessible programs that meet the diverse needs of families and communities.