Since 1989, Giraffe Laugh Early Learning Centers has been creating something special — a soundtrack of laughter, learning, and love that continues to play through generations.
What began as a small dream has grown into a thriving community that ensures school readiness, empowers families, and builds strong futures. Every laugh, every milestone, and every goodbye hug has been part of our story — and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible children and families who’ve been part of our journey.
To celebrate the legacy of Giraffe Laugh, we’re looking back at some of our greatest hits: stories from alumni who began their journeys with us and are now out in the world thriving, dreaming, and making a difference.
Shelby Blair Smith
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
Reflecting on my time at Giraffe Laugh, I had such a positive experience there. Despite many years I still remember being in nap time and a teacher would sit next to me and gently stroke my head until I fell asleep. I remember loving snack time and playing with the other kids.
What are you doing now?
Today, I am happily married, living in Washington, and working as an environmental engineering consultant.
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
Giraffe Laugh gave me and my siblings a safe, loving foundation from which to grow from. That early education and safety is priceless.
🎥 Watch their short video reflection 👇
Alexa Fernandez
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
Mrs. Lori, she was so kind and sweet to me but also Mrs. Dora. She lights up the room and whenever I visit, she makes a point to tell everyone there that I was her baby.
What are you doing now?
I’m a sophomore in high school, at Boise high getting my Vet Tech Certification.
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
It’s a lovely community to me, and I’m forever grateful that my mother put me and my sister in the program.
🎥 Watch their short video reflection 👇
Vanessa Kay
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
One of my favorite people at Giraffe laugh was Lori. Lori was warm, kind, and provided a great support for my mom and I, who relied on Giraffe Laugh and their resources for care.
What are you doing now?
I am a School Psychologist in Washington state
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
Giraffe Laugh provided me with a safe place to be and a great place to grow. For my family, trust and support.
Annie Fascilla
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
There were many teachers that left a lasting mark on me, but the majority of my childhood memories are of Lori, Beverly, and Neile. They were (and still are) some of my favorite people in the world. I have too many memories to choose from, and it reminds me of one of my mom’s favorite quotes by Maya Angelou which is “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I don’t remember everything from my preschool days but I do remember that these three women never failed to make me feel loved, valued, worthy, and understood.
I spent all of my childhood wanting to be just like them, and I cherish the moments I can see their impact on me today. When I handle a difficult situation with grace and humor, I know that’s the Lori in me. When I respond with kindness and positivity when faced with hardship, that’s all Beverly. When I value fairness and justice above all else, it’s because Neile taught me to. One of the greatest blessings in my life is their presence not only in my childhood, but also in adulthood. I feel so lucky to continue to learn from them and laugh with them to this day.
What are you doing now?
I’m the Operations Director at Giraffe Laugh. Just can’t stay away!
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
Everything! It’s the heart of our family and has impacted us in so many meaningful ways. It allowed my mom to flourish and find her passion and life’s work. It allowed me the most wonderful childhood surrounded by loving, knowledgeable, experienced teachers who set me up for success by not only teaching me the foundations for all my future learning, but also how to be a good friend and citizen. It’s made our family more empathetic, giving, and caring.
Kate Erickson and Her Giraffe Laugh Friends
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
Miss Beverly, Miss Dora and Miss Laura!
What are you doing now?
Sophomore at Centennial High School
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
My close knit circle of friends – my tribe – started at Giraffe Laugh, four of us girls – and one guy. We are all still the closest of friends 15 years later! We spend lots of time together and with our families too, who are also close friends. We cherish our village!
Sarah Smith
Tell us about a special Giraffe Laugh memory, or a favorite Giraffe Laugh teacher who left a lasting mark on you.
My favorite memories are of playing with friends, doing arts and crafts, and having the kind of carefree days only preschool can bring.
What are you doing now?
I am currently a dermatology resident physician at Mayo Clinic in Arizona
What does Giraffe Laugh mean to you and your family?
It has always meant community, kindness, and an environment that supported the growth of myself, my siblings, and my friends.