Allie’s mission is to empower children and their families through sensory play so that they can thrive through childhood and beyond. Allie is the author of the book, Play to Progress, where she provides parents with an overview of all 8 (yes, 8) senses and gives parents ways to enhance those senses at home. Allie uses the science of child development and the joy of play to boost childrens’ confidence and enhance development within all areas of their life, from social and emotional to physical and academic. Allie believes that the best way to support children is by arming their parents, from inception, with the knowledge and skills necessary to encourage their child’s development for success through childhood and beyond.

Allie began her work in pediatric development at the University of Michigan, where she earned her B.S. in Movement Science, and continued her studies at USC, where she received her M.A. and Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Allie is certified in Sensory Integration and hopes that one day one day quality open ended play will be considered as important as learning the ABC’s. When not at work, you can find Allie at the beach engaging her own sensory system, outside enjoying nature or on her spin bike. Allie also loves to bake vegan treats, read and color in mindfulness coloring books, which are her own regulation tools.

Katie graduated with her bachelors in psychology at Sonoma State University before studying occupational therapy at the University of Southern California. Katie loves getting creative and silly with kids to teach them ways to manage their wiggly bodies and cope with big feelings. She's passionate about helping little picky eaters learn to embrace new foods. In her free time, Katie loves to box, spend time outside, and practice calligraphy.

Allycyn graduated with her bachelors in Sociology and English from Emory University before receiving her master’s in occupational therapy from Georgia State in Atlanta. Allycyn loves teaching Music & Movement class on the weekend and empowering little bodies to become more confident through silly play. In her spare time, Allycyn loves to surf, find a new pilates class, and spend time outside!

Samantha attended a 5-year bachelor's to master's occupational therapy program at Dominican University of California. Samantha loves to incorporate sensory experiences into play in order to support development for kids of all ages! In her spare time, Samantha loves playing with her dogs, going to the beach, and spending time with her friends!

Bridget earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy at the University of Southern California after graduating with a bachelors in Biological Sciences and a minor in dance at Chapman University. She is currently completing her doctorate in occupational therapy at the University of Southern California as well. She is passionate about using sensory experiences incorporated with the power of play to support development for kids of all ages. In her free time, Bridget loves dancing, trying new restaurants, and going to the beach.

Jacqui received her bachelors of science degree in Kinesiology at California State University, Fullerton and received her master's degree in Occupational Therapy at West Coast University. Jacqui has prior experience working with kiddos as she spent several summers working at kids camps and volunteering in the community. Jacqui loves being creative while using play based strategies and looks forward to becoming sensory certified in the very near future! Jacqui is originally from Northern California and in her free time, she loves baking, doing pilates, going on walks, and connecting with loved ones. 

Hope received her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy at sister campuses’ in New York and Los Angeles. Although no longer pursuing a career in the arts at this time, she remains an artist at heart with a passion for people and business. 

Hope loves camping, reading and hiking. She strongly believes and encourages everyone to live in the present; to experience the best of life.

Heather earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Boston University and had the opportunity to study abroad in London. While living in Boston, she gained valuable experience as a preschool teacher and summer camp counselor. After completing her degree, Heather relocated to sunny Los Angeles, where she continued her passion for working with children by becoming a nanny. She is thrilled to have found her place at Play 2 Progress, where she leads pre-preschool and other classes.

In addition to her dedication to children's development, Heather is deeply passionate about animal welfare, nature, alternative music, and cooking. During her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga, attending concerts, and hosting dinner parties for her friends and family.