meet the team!
Jessica Gemma Owner and Founder
Ms. Nicki Team Member
Ms. Nicki Team Member
Jessica has been in the education field since 2007, holding two Master's degrees in Education, and has worked with children ranging in ages from newborn through 14. As an educator, her mission is to ensure ALL children feel included and welcome. She is also a firm believer in meeting the child where they are and helping them to grow and
Jessica has been in the education field since 2007, holding two Master's degrees in Education, and has worked with children ranging in ages from newborn through 14. As an educator, her mission is to ensure ALL children feel included and welcome. She is also a firm believer in meeting the child where they are and helping them to grow and flourish on their own time.
After deciding to leave the classroom in 2024, she created The Sensory Play Place with the purpose of fulfilling the need of sensory based play for young children. Through her activities, classes, and open play opportunities she hopes to encourage and promote imaginative play, gross/fine motor skills, social skills, and most of all FUN!
When she is not at the play space, you can find her spending time with her family, reading, working as a realtor, or continuing her training in Krav Maga.
Her hope in creating this space is to build a community where both children and adults can find a spot to meet new friends, create new memories, and feel as though they belong. Come Learn, Play, and Grow with us!
Ms. Nicki Team Member
Ms. Nicki Team Member
Ms. Nicki Team Member
Nicki lives in Johnston with her husband and 14-year-old twin daughters, who definitely keep life interesting.
Before joining The Sensory Play Place, Nicki spent 16 years as a preschool teacher, where she discovered just how much joy there is in helping little ones learn, laugh, and grow.
Nicki is also a former state championship cheer coac
Nicki lives in Johnston with her husband and 14-year-old twin daughters, who definitely keep life interesting.
Before joining The Sensory Play Place, Nicki spent 16 years as a preschool teacher, where she discovered just how much joy there is in helping little ones learn, laugh, and grow.
Nicki is also a former state championship cheer coach, so she is a big believer in teamwork, positivity, and celebrating every success - big or small!
When she is not at work, you'll find her spending time with my family and friends, cheering on her girls, or making the most of life's everyday adventures.
Working with young children has always been her passion. Nicki loves watching their imaginations come to life, seeing their confidence grow, and creating a fun, welcoming space where they can play, explore, and make lasting memories.
Whether she's joining in the fun, sharing smiles, or helping families enjoy their visit, she truly loves being a part of those special moments.
Ms. Kayla Party Host
Ms. Alex Team Member / Party Host
Ms. Alex Team Member / Party Host
Kayla is a preschool teacher with an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood education from CCRI. She has been working with young children for many years.
She is also a wife and proud mom to four amazing boys. When she is not teaching or hosting birthday parties, she is also a travel agent.
Kayla is a preschool teacher with an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood education from CCRI. She has been working with young children for many years.
She is also a wife and proud mom to four amazing boys. When she is not teaching or hosting birthday parties, she is also a travel agent.
She loves all things Disney, tacos, and summertime!
Kayla loves being your party host at The Sensory Play Place! She can't wait to celebrate with you and help make your child's birthday extra special. She looks forward to helping you have an amazing day filled with fun and memories!
Ms. Alex Team Member / Party Host
Ms. Alex Team Member / Party Host
Ms. Alex Team Member / Party Host
Alex is currently going to school for Elementary Education. Her favorite thing to do is travel and explore new places!
Alex loves working with children and watching them learn through play.
She is so excited to be a part of The Sensory Play Place and can't wait to make fun memories with all of our little explorers!