About Us

You've heard "necessity is the mother of invention" – well that's exactly how three mothers transformed an idea into a unique video series for children ages two to five.

Jill Avery Zuleeg, one of the three founders of All By Myself, Inc., pinpoints the moment when her not-quite three-year-old son ran into her bedroom one morning and exclaimed triumphantly, "Look Mom, I did it all by myself!" There he stood, for the first time, dressed from head to toe, albeit inside out and backwards, but dressed nonetheless. More importantly, he had done it ALL BY HIMSELF! The pride and self-confidence from that accomplishment beamed from within him, and Jill knew this was "a defining moment for my son, and for me too."

Jill searched everywhere for a video to reinforce her son's step of independence but found none. Inspired by her son's self-empowerment, she thought, "Why not create a video?"

Jill explained her idea to friends, Michele Free and Carmela Zamora Robertson, both moms and Jill's former colleagues at Apple Computer, Inc., and the trio decided, "Let's do it all by ourselves!" The concept revealed a name for their enterprise, and offered the trio the challenge of creating the All By Myself™ unique video series, which tackles the inevitable challenges all young children must face, and perhaps more importantly, conquer.

They became a team of "mothers on a mission," happy to be working together again. The All By Myself video series was a perfect opportunity to blend their passion for motherhood, their friendship and the desire to promote self-empowerment for children.

Each fun-filled video in the All By Myself series features a fun-and-friendly character, Buddy the Ladybug, to engage and guide children. The series uses one of the most effective learning tools: children teaching children. In addition, Buddy offers encouragement and helpful tips and lessons along the way.

The first video in the series, All By Myself: "Getting Dressed" ™ has garnered awards and early recognition: PARENTING Magazine 2003 "Videos of the Year Award" for children ages 18 months to 3 years, Dr. Toy's Best Children's Products for 2002and KIDS FIRST! endorsement.

Throughout the series, Buddy introduces an ensemble of other friendly characters, who motivate children to discover their capabilities and master skills while watching other children their age successfully accomplish tasks all by themselves. The goals of the All By Myself video series are to promote a positive self-image, foster healthy independence, and create a fun story with lessons in responsibility and self-sufficiency. Children are capable of great accomplishments - all they need is the opportunity!

Self-empowerment for a child is fuel for their soul to soar. From three dedicated moms, we hope you (and the young children in your life) enjoy our creation.