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 dedicated professional with an extensive background in social sciences and community services. She holds a Bachelor of Social Science and is certified as a Cue-Based Infant Massage and Parent Education Instructor.

With a passion for holistic care, Melissa has pursued further extensive training in areas such as birth trauma, birth debriefing, perinatal mental health, Keyword Sign, Marte Meo, and Kids Yoga. Over her 18-year career, she has applied her expertise in therapeutic interventions, particularly with young people under guardianship, children, staff and families in educational settings, as well as marginalised and vulnerable individuals and groups.

Melissa's commitment to making a meaningful impact extends beyond borders. She has provided crucial support to young mothers under guardianship, young Aboriginal parents, CALD mothers, and families facing adversity; particularly those under the involvement of the Department of Child Protection. Melissa has

a heart for for children living with a disability, and as such has adapted her program (Wiggle & Giggle) to be implemented in special schools and suit their needs accordingly.

Melissa also volunteers her time to create video resources of children's songs and story readings for the National Key Word Sign Australia initiative.

Notably, she played a vital role in both creating play programs and conducting staff and volunteer training at a highly regarded and critical babies’ home in Uganda, where she cared for orphaned babies and toddlers.

Outside of her professional endeavours, Melissa finds joy in being both Nathan's wife, and the loving mother of Abraham, Mila and Zelie. Her creative spirit thrives on finding innovative ways to connect with communities and make a tangible difference. Melissa is passionate about developing programs that are easily adaptable to meet the diverse needs of participants, ensuring inclusivity and effectiveness.