"The insight I received in Marla’s classes, wasn’t just about learning how to be a good parent. It was about learning how to be the best parent I could be for my child. She taught me that the best way I could learn how to be a good parent, was to get to know my child and learn what worked for her. Marla taught me to accept who my child is, and to create a childhood for her that was fun, imaginative and exciting – while still disciplined and structured. To this day, I often ask myself, 'How would Marla handle this?' I am so grateful to Marla for showing me how to be the best mother I can to my daughter!"

"In Marla's classes, students don't sit around and memorize and follow rules. They explore with their hands and their minds and their imaginations. They don't learn through repetition or one-size-fits-all class lectures. They learn through touch and smell and taste. In her classes, it's about being a kid – and appreciating and the joys and wonders that the world has to offer.'

Tahlia Essman, two-year veteran of Familiworks

"My son Josh, now 3, and I have known Marla Elliott since he was a baby. We have been taking her 'Waddler’s and Me' or 'Grown Up and Me' classes since he was young enough to grunt and make the motions for the 'Big Hairy Spider' song! Now I also have a 5 month old and they both love Marla! She genuinely cares about the kids and makes the classes fresh and fun. Marla models good parenting strategies for the Moms (and Dads) during class, is available to help over the phone, and even recently held a workshop 'My Kids are Driving Me Crazy' to answer all my parenting questions. Marla is always there with a helping hand, a word of advise, a friendly face, or a expression of encouragement. I tell everyone I know with kids that they have to take a class with Marla and everyone who has loves her as much as I do!!

Chrissy Davis

"Marla is light hearted and serious in her approach to solving overwhelming issues we have with our children. She has a deep understanding of the developmental stages of children and can make you feel better about your child's behaviour without being judgemental. She enjoys what she does and is open to ongoing developments in the areas of child development. I can recommend her classes as a mother and owner of a Montessori School."

Samantha Otte

"Our family is acquainted with Marla Elliott in several ways. Our daughter has been enrolled in her” Waddlers and Grownups” class since she was six months old. She really enjoys the games that Marla comes up with and often sings the songs from class. As a parent with very little creativity and a complete lack of memory of any children’s songs, I worried that she was missing out. Marla’s games, songs and homemade toys really fill the void."

"When our daughter was a year old we got a new babysitter who our daughter was having a hard time bonding with. We asked Marla for help. By coming to our home she was able to first reassure and second give us specific steps to help ease the rocky transition. I am happy to say that a few months later, we all laughed about what a hard time my daughter had given the new sitter. They are now the best of friends. Since as parents, we cannot know everything. Marla’s knowledge of child development and behavior are a welcome resource."

Jodi Schnoebelen

"Marla's workshops are inspiring and inspirational. You will come away with new ideas and techniques. Her workshops both educate and stimulate your mind. Marla's workshops are fun, interactive, and hands-on. I have had workshop attendees request her over & over again. I don't hesitate to have her as a repeat presenter, as I know that each time she presents something in a new and different manner."

Lisa Caso
Program Administrator III
Children’s Home Society of California

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