After many years of working with children and families as a teacher and mindfulness facilitator, Jessica Barnett saw a gap in inclusive opportunities in her community.
“Many activities and programs unintentionally left families feeling excluded, overwhelmed, or like they had to ‘fit’ into a certain mold to participate,” Barnett said. “I wanted to create something different. A safe, welcoming space where every child and family could simply show up as themselves and feel valued, supported or included.”
In 2023, Barnett launched Creative Inclusion, a service that offers social emotional learning experiences (or SEL) through creative projects and community activities.
“The heart behind the business is connection, creating opportunities where children and adults can learn, move, create and grow together without judgment,” Barnett said.
Barnett offers classes where children and families can learn mindfulness in a calm, welcoming and engaging space. This could include breathing strategies, mindfulness exercises, sensory activities, art projects or hands-on themed experiences.
“The goal is to create programs where everyone feels comfortable participating, regardless of ability, learning style, or experience level,” Barnett said.
“Families need spaces where they feel accepted, supported and connected,” Barnett said. “Social emotional learning, mindfulness, and inclusive experiences are incredibly important for children and adults alike, especially in today’s fast-paced world. One of the biggest goals of Creative Inclusion is to help families realize they are not alone and that there is value in creating spaces where differences are celebrated, not just accommodated.”
Get to know Jessica Barnett
Tell us about yourself!
I’m Jessica Barnett, the founder of Creative Inclusion. I’m a certified teacher, SEL mindfulness facilitator, and currently completing my 200 hour yoga teacher training through Breath for Change. I have been married to my husband, William for 20 years and we have two daughters. Ave, 13, and Jade, 10. Our fur baby’s name is Penny Breadstick. As a family, we like to travel and spend most of our time together.
Where did you grow up?
Port Huron, Michigan. After high school, I moved to Bay Area, California, where I met my husband, William. We relocated back to Michigan to raise our family.
Education? Career background?
I’m a certified teacher with two years working in my own classroom. Before that, I was a Behavior Specialist. I have a Masters in Early Elementary (Concordia University) and a Masters in Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ASU).
Do you have a Mom super power or Mom hack that makes daily life easier?
Honestly, I don’t think I have a super power. I’m like every other mom, just trying to balance all the things while hoping I’m raising strong, confident, loving humans. I’ve learned that giving myself grace, staying flexible and focusing on connection over perfection helps make daily life feel a little easier.
If you could learn one new skill/talent/ability to master, what would it be?
I would love to be bilingual and master more than one language. Being able to communicate with and understand people from different backgrounds is a powerful way to build inclusion, empathy and community.
Which do you prefer: Podcasts, books or movies?
Books and podcasts, especially anything related to mindfulness, education, personal growth or inspiring stories.
Any hobbies?
Mindfulness practices, yoga, creative projects, being outside and spending time with family.
You can be counted on to bring _______ to the potluck!
Homemade mac and cheese, deviled eggs, and banana bread.
Favorite local restaurant?
Antonio’s in Dearborn is always a favorite Michigan classic.
Favorite hidden or not so hidden gem in the area?
The Owl, our local coffee shop on Milan’s Main Street.
Any quotes or mottos that inspire you?
“Connection over compliance.” Also, “This too shall pass. Begin again.”
What has surprised you about being a business owner?
Finally putting myself out there and sharing my vision can truly pay off. Taking that first step can feel intimidating, but once you start building connections and gaining traction, you realize how many people are looking for exactly what you have to offer. Those steps gave me this opportunity.
Advice for mompreneurs who are thinking of starting their own business?
If you are passionate about something that can help others, your voice and your vision matter. Building something meaningful takes time, but authenticity and heart go a long way.
