By Kristin Clark with Janai “Grandma Boom” Mestrovich
Janai “Grandma Boom” Mestrovich M.S. is an instantly recognizable figure around Ashland. With her large hats and flowing locks and whimsical dresses and elbow-length gloves, she looks every bit the part of a Fairy Godmother – and to the children of the Rogue Valley, and indeed to many adults’ inner child as well – she is just that.
Mestrovich recognized early on that as our world has become increasingly complex and demanding, the need for social emotional learning (SEL) has become critical.This moved her to form the 501 c3 Superkid Power as a means of addressing this need.
The organization is dedicated to equipping children of all ages with the tools necessary to navigate their emotions, build resilience, and foster healthy relationships.Through innovative programs and engaging resources, SuperkidPower seeks to transform the lives of children, empowering them to become not only better students but also empathetic and socially conscious individuals.
“We have to help children gain these skills,” Mestrovich insists.“It’s essential, because they’re the key to our future. When children have the ability to work with their own internal resources, how the mind/body/emotions work together with breathing as a system, they are empowered to make healthy decisions for themselves and the direction of our planet.”
Superkid Power offers a range of resources, including workshops, online resources, and engaging materials designed to appeal to children from diverse backgrounds. Mestrovich works with schools, community organizations and individuals directly. She has written nine books that captivate young minds and foster self-awareness and self-regulation.
The nonprofit’s impact extends beyond individual children; it reverberates through families and communities. By equipping children with social/emotional skills, the organization aims to cultivate a generation of compassionate leaders who can contribute positively to society.
Individuals can get involved by volunteering time, skills, sponsoring workshops or assisting with community outreach initiatives. Gifts are so crucial for sustaining the organization’s programs. Contributions can help fund educational materials, workshops, and resources that directly benefit children.
Through its innovative and programs and unwavering commitment, Superkid Power, with Grandma Boom at the helm, is truly making a difference, one child at a time.