About

Cheryl Priest, Ed.D., CAPP

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Certified in the science of flourishing (otherwise knows as positive psychology) combined with decades of work with young children, families, and early childhood educators and leaders, I am focused on sharing ways that build well-being for all and helping children learn these important skills early in life.  I am a professor of Early Childhood, offer online and in-person Idea Labs focused on building upon children’s signature Character Strengths, facilitate Flourishing Skills Groups® and advanced flourishing experiences , design and facilitate study groups that visit programs and places of inspiration, and host Purposeful Gatherings Early Childhood professional development retreats. 

In September of 2001, while working on identifying my dissertation research topic, world events helped me more fully realize the need to better understand the types of choices that are made in adulthood and ways that early childhood experiences can positively influence those choices. Changing that dissertation research to Developing Character Strengths in Early Childhood Programs eventually led to an ongoing exploration of the early childhood programs in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and sharing these programs with university students and professionals through study tours . Personal and professional development interests have deepened my understanding of the impacts of adverse childhood experiences, the importance of community champions, and the infinite value of practices in applied positive psychology.

I hold a Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology from The Flourishing Center and a doctorate degree in Child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University. Follow me on Instagram @drcherylpriest and on Facebook @Cozy&Flourish LLC for regular tips, inspirational messages, and updates, but be careful, I might convince you to join my circle of flourishing influencers.  It’s time to grow north of neutral, to broaden and build, and to create upward spirals of happiness!

Just Some of the Things I Do:
  • Flourishing Skills Groups
  • International Study Groups
  • Idea Labs for those Influencing Children
  • Share and Review My Favorite Children’s Books
  • Professional Development Events & Retreats
  • Conference Keynote & Presentations
  • Purposeful Gatherings Early Childhood Series