At Giraffe Laugh, we know that when caring teachers and a nurturing environment surround children, they flourish in every way — emotionally, socially, and academically. For Tara, a pediatric speech-language pathologist who partners with several of our centers, that truth comes to life every day.
“After 13 years of working as a pediatric speech-language pathologist for various companies in the Pocatello, Idaho area, my family decided it was time to move on to something bigger. In late 2022, we sold our home in Pocatello and moved to Boise to be closer with our family and fulfill my long-time dream of starting a heart-centered pediatric speech therapy clinic.”
When Tara reached out to Giraffe Laugh Preschool offering free speech and language screenings, she found more than just a place to practice, she found a community dedicated to helping children thrive.
“After officially opening my clinic doors in January of 2023, I took a chance and reached out to the nearby Giraffe Laugh Preschool, offering free speech & language screenings for their classroom. Thankfully, Ms. Annie welcomed me with open arms. I am so grateful that Ms. Annie placed her trust in me to provide a needed service, and allowed me the opportunity to be a part of her preschool classroom!”
From the start, Tara noticed what makes Giraffe Laugh classrooms so special: the way teachers connect deeply with every child. Their warmth and compassion create a space where children feel safe, supported, and confident to grow.
“It’s such a privilege to be able to practice in an environment that is in alignment with my heart’s desire to pour all of my love into the children I serve. All of her teachers are so kind and compassionate, and are truly connected to each and every one of the children. Her classroom is so supportive of the work I do, and is my absolute favorite place to practice.”
Through play-based learning and inclusive classrooms, children strengthen their speech and social skills naturally, right alongside their friends.
“The children benefit so, so much from working toward their speech goals in a naturalistic setting. Being able to work amongst their peers promotes carryover and generalization of skills so much more than any standard clinic setting ever could.”
What began in one classroom soon grew into something greater. Tara now serves multiple Giraffe Laugh centers, continuing to witness the same compassion and impact across each one.
“I have since expanded my services to include their other childcare centers, where I have found just as much kindness, care, and compassion. I feel so very lucky to have the privilege of working with everyone in the Giraffe Laugh community.”
Every child deserves the chance to be heard and we are grateful for partners like Tara who share that belief. Her experience is a reminder that when teachers, families, and volunteers come together with love and purpose, amazing things happen.
“I am grateful every single day to Ms. Annie for welcoming me into her classroom for that first round of screenings! My business wouldn’t be what it is now without her allowing me that opportunity as I was getting started.”
Stories like these are what we’re all about: children growing in confidence, teachers guiding with heart, and volunteers joining in to make sure every little voice gets the chance to shine.
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Every smile, every word, and every small success begins with care. You can help more local children thrive by supporting Giraffe Laugh whether by volunteering, donating, or simply sharing our story.
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Disclaimer: This story has been lightly edited for length and clarity, but all experiences and impacts shared are true. *Representative photo used.