Bio

Kari Palmer has a lifelong passion for helping people, especially parents and their young children. She believes that the earliest years — from birth to age five — are the foundation for a child’s lifelong learning and well-being. Her mission is to ensure that every young learner has a positive, joyful early learning experience. For 14 years, Kari owned and operated Wiggles and Giggles Preschool, creating a nurturing, play-based environment where children could grow, explore, and thrive. She has also poured her energy into her community through years of leading Vacation Bible School, teaching Sunday school, and volunteering in her own children’s classrooms. Beyond the classroom, Kari has supported parents by teaching parenting classes, offering guidance, and fostering a strong sense of community. Known for her creativity and warmth, she’s also famous for throwing big, memorable birthday parties for her kids and their friends — moments filled with laughter, learning, and connection. Whether she’s teaching, mentoring, or celebrating, Kari’s heart is always for the children and families she serves. Her dedication continues to inspire and strengthen those around her, one small smile at a time.

Parenting Philosophy

I believe in parenting with both love and firmness. My children will always know they are deeply loved through hugs, encouragement, and the time I spend guiding them. At the same time, I strive to provide structure and accountability so they grow into kind, compassionate humans who serve and help others. I view mistakes and hard choices as opportunities for growth. Everyone makes poor choices at times, but in our family we trust one another enough to talk through them, learn from them, and move forward together. Apologies are important — from me as well as from my children — because none of us will ever be perfect. By modeling humility and resilience, I hope my children understand that learning is a lifelong process. In our home, respect and honesty are core values. We do not lie to each other, and we take responsibility for our actions. Every choice has a consequence, and we follow the rules we set together as a family. These shared expectations help create stability and fairness. Above all, we believe in one another. Open communication is essential, and affection is a must — hugs are a daily part of our lives. My goal is to provide a safe, loving environment where my children feel secure, valued, and supported. I want them to grow up knowing they are loved unconditionally, while also being guided to make good choices and live with integrity.

Motherhood and Community

Throughout my life, I have been blessed to take part in activities that not only brought joy to my own family but also created meaningful connections in my community. Three activities in particular— leading Vacation Bible School, running my own preschool, and starting the Play 2 Learn program— have had the most significant impact. One of my most memorable experiences was directing Vacation Bible School (VBS), where over 100 children came together to learn about Jesus, build friendships, and create lasting memories. I first got involved because I wanted my own children to grow in their faith while experiencing the fun and fellowship that VBS provides. Coordinating such a large program taught me leadership, organization, and patience, but more importantly, it showed me the power of community when families come together for a shared purpose. Watching children sing, laugh, and learn about God was a blessing for me as both a mother and community member. For 14 years, I owned and operated Wiggles and Giggles Preschool. This was truly a labor of love, as it allowed me to balance being a stay-at-home mom with serving other families in the community. My two children were able to attend preschool with me, and I cherished being present for their early learning years while also supporting the growth of countless other children. Through this experience, I learned the importance of early education, play, and relationships in helping children thrive. The bonds I built with families continue to inspire me, and many parents have shared how grateful they were to have a safe, nurturing place for their children. Most recently, I began leading the Play 2 Learn program through the Caldwell School District. This innovative program invites parents and children into the classroom to spend 90 minutes reading, playing, and learning together. It is incredibly rewarding to help parents strengthen their skills and confidence while also fostering positive early learning experiences for children. Seeing families connect, children light up with joy, and parents grow in their roles fills my heart with purpose. Each of these activities has shaped who I am as a parent, teacher, and community member, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in ways that build strong families and thriving children.