Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood
In their weekly podcast, Heather and Kristina dive into the “tricky terrain” of raising children and growing up in today’s world. With a blend of professional insight and personal stories, they offer practical tips, heartfelt advice, and plenty of humor. Whether you're a parent or caregiver, their discussions are designed to help you find joy and connection in the parenting journey. Tune in for a warm, engaging, and supportive resource for navigating the ups and downs of raising kids.
Heather Bouwman and Kristina Boersma are Clinical Social Workers and Support Service Directors for ODC Early Childhood Network, a division of ODC Network, in Holland, Michigan. For years, their parenting classes and unique curriculum have been a beloved offering to the parents at ODC Network’s innovative nature-based preschools. The ODC Network has made this podcast possible so that others can share in this offering and have access to discussions based on Heather and Kristina’s approach.
ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan. Since 2000, ODC Network has served over one million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and has conserved thousands of acres of habitat through restoration and preservation projects. ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.ODCNetwork.org
Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood
BONUS EPISODE: Gratitude Is A Parenting Tool
In this episode, clinical social workers Kristina and Heather explore the powerful role gratitude plays in parenting and how it can shift our mindset from feeling stuck in victimhood to embracing resilience. They share practical, everyday strategies for cultivating gratitude—like starting a gratitude practice at dinner, creating gratitude jars, or using visual reminders around the home. The benefits of gratitude go beyond just a positive attitude; research shows it’s linked to improved mental health, reduced anxiety, and increased happiness. Kristina and Heather also dive into the difference between genuine gratitude and toxic positivity, encouraging authentic expression and critical thinking. With personal stories, they show how gratitude can turn tough situations into chances for growth. Plus, they discuss fun ways to model gratitude for kids, like involving them in giving activities—such as leaving pennies for others at a local grocery store, turning a simple act into an opportunity for kindness and connection.
Gear Up! Adventures In Parenthood is recorded and edited by Dave Purnell and produced by Jen Plante Johnson for the ODC Network in Holland, Michigan.
The ODC Network is a non-profit organization that strives to advance outdoor education and conservation in West Michigan.
Since 2000, The ODC Network has served over a million people through hands-on, outdoor learning experiences and conserved thousands of acres of native habitat through restoration and preservation projects.
The ODC Network’s vision is building a better community by connecting people, land and nature. To learn more and get involved go to: www.odcnetwork.org.