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Hi, I’m Laura — a longtime educator, former ballet teacher, and mom of two wonderful children. I’ve spent more than 20 years working with young children and families, and becoming a parent myself has deeply shaped how I think about early learning, connection, and what caregivers truly need during these early years.

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My work with children is grounded in both extensive experience and study. I began my career in NYC through the NYC Teaching Fellows and completed my undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania, CUNY, and Teachers College, Columbia University. These experiences shaped my understanding of child development, inclusion, and the importance of responsive, intentional learning environments.

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After working and studying in NYC, my husband and I moved to Hong Kong, where what was meant to be a short teaching experience turned into nine enriching years with the English Schools Foundation. During that time, I worked in classrooms and later served as a Special Educational Needs Adviser, supporting schools in developing inclusive practices that honored the needs of all learners.

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After returning to New Jersey as a mom, I served as Co-President of my children's cooperative preschool and found myself dreaming about a space that reflected both my professional experience and my life as a parent. While many play programs focus on activity alone, Community Playroom was intentionally designed to blend joyful play with the depth of an experienced educator’s understanding of child development. I opened Community Playroom in Monmouth County to create a welcoming place where children can explore and grow — and where caregivers feel supported, connected, and seen.