Every Family and Every Child Deserves Their Own Island of Safety – By Jasmine Carroll

My foundation for working with families comes from over 18 years of experience in Early Childhood Education as both a teacher and administrator. Now, as a Family Specialist with a Crisis Nursery, I provide direct support through home visiting and connections to community resources. Throughout April, Child Abuse Prevention Month highlights the work we do 24/7/365 to offer families an Island of Safety and support. 
 
What grounds me most is keeping the child’s best interests at heart, especially in the earliest years. The field of Infant Mental Health has shifted to reach more families, recognizing infants as individuals with distinct needs—beginning with safe environments and secure relationships. 
 
Supporting an infant’s ability to form secure attachments from birth leads to improved lifelong outcomes. When families are stabilized, stronger support systems allow children to reach their greatest potential. This is at the core of my work—bridging families with resources and a remaining of service. Some families have no one to rely on, and I’m humbled to be a person of support; it fills my bucket, too. 
 
In 2024, my years of experience went out the window when my husband and I became first-time parents. Nothing quite prepares you for that thrilling, exhausting, life-changing “blast-off.” We all have our days, and support systems are crucial. This experience deepened my perspective on raising a child and the realities of family life. I can attest that it truly does take a village. 
 
My passion for serving families doesn’t end when I leave the Nursery; it’s just a part of who I am. Providing encouragement or simply listening can make a world of difference to a parent. I’ve been privileged to walk alongside countless parents—witnessing milestones, validating struggles, and celebrating wins. I believe every family and every child deserves their own Island of Safety.