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.

Instructor

Annabelle Himes is a Canfield native, a two-time graduate of Youngstown State University, and a natural-born leader with a heart for children and community magic. She holds a BSBA in Human Resource Management and an MBA in Leadership—and she’s been putting both to good use since the age of 16, when she launched her own small business, Heroes and Tiaras.

By day (especially weekends), she’s a princess—bringing stories and sparkle to birthday parties, special events, and community celebrations. By night, she’s the lead singer of the band Guys Without Ties. And during the week, you’ll find her guiding the next generation of leaders as Assistant Director at the YSU Sokolov Honors College.

With a background in entertainment, education, and leadership, Annabelle brings creativity, energy, and a whole lot of joy to every class she leads at Wonder Village. Her playful spirit and kind heart make her a favorite among our little learners—and their grown-ups too.

She’s thrilled to be part of the Wonder Village family, where imagination, connection, and childhood magic are celebrated every single day.

Instructor

Aimée Dempsey (pronounced “M-A”) is a passionate educator, dedicated homeschool mom, and joyful presence here at Wonder Village. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies from Kent State University in 2006, where she studied education, music, and French—and graduated with honors.

These days, you’ll find Aimée pouring into her three children through homeschooling, serving her church family at Old North Church in Canfield, and sharing her heart in ministries like Moms With Littles, Good Food, and children's ministry.

Outside the classroom, she’s cheering on her kids at Bender Academy of Self Defense and His Masterpiece Dance—two places where her children shine—and connecting with families at Berry’s Natural Food Market, where she also serves the community.

When she does have a quiet moment, Aimée loves to read, rest, and reflect on the beauty of this season of life. Her love for God, learning, and family shines in every interaction, and she’s so excited to meet, teach, and care for the families of Wonder Village.

Instructor

For Miss Taylor, being a mom is her greatest purpose, challenge, and joy—and it’s what fuels her deep passion for nurturing children’s growth, development, and well-being. With over 13 years of experience as a tumbling instructor, she brings both skill and heart to every class she leads.

Taylor is CPR and First Aid certified and is known for creating spaces where children feel safe, celebrated, and free to explore. She believes in raising kind, confident, and curious humans—and encourages that same spirit in every little one she meets.

Whether she’s helping a child master a new skill or simply offering a kind word at the right moment, Taylor’s warmth and steady presence make her a gift to the Wonder Village community.

She’s honored to walk alongside families in this season and excited to share her love of movement, encouragement, and connection with each child who enters her care.

Instructor

Jenna brings a powerful blend of experience, energy, and empathy to Wonder Village. A former competitive gymnast with over eight years of coaching under her belt, she has seen firsthand how movement can shape a child’s confidence, focus, and sense of self.

As a mom of three little ones (ages 1, 3, and 5), Jenna understands just how important it is to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where kids can explore, grow, and try new things at their own pace. Her approach is both nurturing and empowering—encouraging children to step outside their comfort zones, challenge themselves physically, and discover what they’re capable of.

In addition to her work in early childhood and movement, Jenna brings a background in business development and sales, giving her a unique perspective on community needs and thoughtful programming.

She believes that introducing gymnastics at a young age lays the foundation for a lifelong love of movement, self-expression, and resilience—and she’s excited to help children build those skills here at Wonder Village.