Owner, Coordinator, Instructor

B.S.Ed., M.Ed., Neurodevelopment-Informed Educator (in training)

Kayla is a former teacher turned play-based educator, child advocate, and founder of Wonder Village. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education, a teaching license in Middle Childhood Language Arts, and a Master’s degree in Intervention Services, earned through Youngstown State University’s School Psychology program. She’s also currently completing her certification as a Neurodevelopment-Informed Educator through the Alberta Family Wellness Initiative and Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child.

With nearly a decade of classroom experience and a deep passion for early childhood development, Kayla combines her professional expertise with real-life experience as a mom of two. Her background includes academic and behavioral intervention, supporting children in crisis, and working closely with families and courts to meet children’s individual needs.

Wonder Village was born from one of the hardest seasons of Kayla’s life—a time that reminded her just how much we all need each other. She credits her faith in Jesus and the unwavering support of her family for carrying her through, and she pours that same heart into creating a space where children are nurtured, parents feel seen, and no one has to do this alone.

Kayla is from Austintown and lives in Canfield with her husband, their two daughters, and their dogs: a lovable Bernedoodle named Becky and a loyal English Bulldog named Ally. They also carry the memory of their sweet bulldog Layla, who will always be part of their story.

When she’s not pouring into Wonder Village, you’ll likely find Kayla cooking, reading a good book, sipping hot tea, listening to classical or worship music, visiting Disney World, or enjoying a great play—of any kind.

She is proud to serve families from Austintown, Canfield, Boardman, Poland, and the greater Youngstown area through Montessori-inspired programming and community-rooted early childhood enrichment.

Assistant Coordinator

“Nunnie” to five grandkids, and to pretty much everyone at Wonder Village.

After nearly 30 years in the healthcare field, Jen retired early to help her daughter Kayla heal after surgery—and in the process, became an essential part of Wonder Village. Known affectionately as “Nunnie,” she lives in Austintown and spends her days pouring love, laughter, and just the right amount of sparkle into everything she touches.

You’ll find her welcoming families at the front desk, helping in classes, coordinating events, and chatting with little ones on the imaginative play floor. She’s also the creative mind behind Nunnie’s Nook, the cozy café-inspired space that reflects her warmth and timeless charm.

Jen is deeply devoted to Jesus, her family, and her five beloved grandchildren. She loves sewing (especially her signature “Nunnie Blankies”), cooking, reading, visiting Disney World, and adding a little glitter wherever she goes.