Grace Riyas
We caught up with Canada based whole brain development and parenting coach, Grace Riyas. Grace, who's own son surprised America as the one of youngest MENSA participants, is a case study to show that each child has a genius within, that can be found through a deep connection with his/her parents. Since then, Grace has trained over 7000 parents to find their children's inner genius.
Grace, you're renowned for being the mother of America's youngest MENSA participant. Can you tell us more about your journey and how it all started?
Grace Riyas: I've always believed that children learn through connection. My mother runs a school in India and while I was growing up, I was given the so-called "difficult kids" to work with. My real journey into child development and parenting expertise began with my own child, who participated in MENSA at the age of 2 and was reading at 13 months. This achievement was a revelation of the potential that every child possesses. It inspired me to share the insights and methods I used with other parents globally. I realized that with the right approach and environment, we could unlock the genius within every child.
That's incredible! What is your educational background and how has it contributed to your approach?
Grace Riyas: I have studied early childhood development and parenting at esteemed institutions like Stanford School of Medicine, Harvard University, and the Positive Discipline Association. This education has equipped me with a deep understanding of child psychology and development, which forms the foundation of my coaching programs. I aim to blend scientific research with practical strategies that parents can easily implement.
You founded "The Genius Nurturer Community." What is the main goal of this community?
Grace Riyas: The Genius Nurturer Community is a platform designed to support parents and educators in fostering the six essential areas of development for children aged 0-7. Our goal is to provide tools and techniques that enhance cognitive, emotional, and social growth. We have positively influenced over 7,000 parents and educators in the past five years, helping them create nurturing and intellectually stimulating environments for their children.
What unique methods do you employ in your coaching programs?
Grace Riyas: Our programs emphasize a holistic approach targeted at the parents. We focus on creating a nurturing environment that combines practical skills with timeless elegance. This involves teaching parents how to transform their homes into havens of warmth and joy, where children can thrive. We cover topics like whole-brain development, positive discipline, and strategies for nurturing a child's innate genius. Our methods are designed to be accessible and effective, empowering parents to confidently support their children's growth.
How has your experience with your own children influenced your work with other parents?
Grace Riyas: My experience with my own children has been incredibly enlightening. It has shown me the immense potential that lies within every child when given the right environment and support. It has given me the chance to put my own strategies to work and adapt them to real life situations. This personal journey has fueled my passion for helping other parents. I believe that every child has the capability to achieve greatness, and my mission is to guide parents in tapping into that potential.
What's next for you and The Genius Nurturer Community?
Grace Riyas: We are constantly evolving to better serve parents and educators. Our future plans include expanding our range of courses and reaching more communities of parents and educators globally. We aim to continue empowering parents and educators to unlock their children's inner genius, creating a brighter and more intellectually stimulating future for the next generation.
