With a background in psychology, counselling and adult education, I’ve spent years developing learning materials and printable activities. My passion for creating resources that engage and connect people took on deeper meaning after supporting my late mother, Sylvia, through her journey with Alzheimer’s.

Long before I formally studied neuropsychology, I saw firsthand how dementia can affect abilities in unexpected ways. Even as Mum’s short-term memory faded, she could still read and play cards. Seeing what she could still do...rather than only what dementia had taken away...stayed with me. Later, learning more about dementia helped me understand those moments differently and inspired me to explore how meaningful activities can build on remaining strengths.

The Montessori approach to dementia care, as taught by Tom and Karen Brenner, profoundly shaped my understanding. Their emphasis on strengths, meaningful engagement and working with what a person can still do just makes sense to me — it’s practical, respectful and deeply human. I saw that firsthand with my mother.

That thinking continues to shape the activities I create for Sylvia’s Heart. They’re designed to offer accessible ways to participate — whether through reading, matching, sorting, conversation, reminiscence or simply responding to something familiar or interesting. The aim isn’t to test memory or get every answer right. It’s to create opportunities for engagement and connection.

Whether you’re a family caregiver, professional caregiver or activity coordinator, I hope these resources make it a little easier to find something that reaches the person you support — and creates a moment you can share together.