Michelle Soto
Director of Playto Prospect Heights
Michelle Soto holds over two decades of experience in directing early childhood education programs. This includes a tenure at The Learning Experience, Bright Horizons and The Goddard School, where she implemented vibrant and engaging curriculum for students, and coached, trained, and motivated her team, providing valuable feedback that allows staff the confidence to grow their knowledge base and provide quality care.
Ms. Soto has also serves as a board member of the Child Care Council of Westchester.
Helen Huang
Director of Playto Tribeca
An early childhood educator for over a decade, Helen Huang holds a masters in Curriculum Development and a Bachelors in Early Childhood education. Prior to undertaking the directorship of Playto Tribeca, Helen served as director for NY Kids Club, where she worked to ensure practices and curriculum were aligned with current standards and individualized to every student.
Mrs. Huang has also trained extensively in early childhood safety, and holds numerous care certifications, including Family Engagement Training, Preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and Code Ana Epinephrine Training.
Lalaine Aclao
Director of Playto Battery Park
Lalaine Aclao has been in Early Childhood Education for almost 20 years and is a licensed New York State Early Childhood Professional. She holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Reading and Math (Pre-K to 6th Grade), Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and Education (Birth to 2nd grade), and has received her Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
It is always her lifelong goal to share her love and passion in learning and to better connect with children. With her leadership skills and devotion, she also has had experience of being a Disabilities Coordinator in a Head start program, helping children with disabilities. Her dedication to the Early Childhood Education is truly admirable. To this day, her goal is to give the best quality education to children, inspire educators and support families.
Kara Wilson
Assistant Director of Playto Tribeca
She has worked with young children foreight years. Kara Wilson holds a bachelor’s degree from Hunter College in Africana Studies,one master’s degree in early childhood education, and one master’s degree in educationalleadership from Teachers College, Columbia University.
She is passionate about early childhoodand looks forward to starting the school year!
Antoinette Holder
Education Director at Playto Prospect Heights
Antoinette Holder is the Education Director at Playto Prospect Heights, a role she has held for four years. Before becoming Education Director, she spent nine years in the classroom as both an assistant and lead teacher. Antoinette holds an M.S. Ed. in Early Childhood Education/Students with Disabilities and is certified in Students with Disabilities (Birth–2) through New York State.
Outside of work, she enjoys time with her energetic and sweet 4-year-old, who keeps her busy. Antoinette loves working with children and being part of their “first” experiences, which she finds truly rewarding. She is available from 9am–6pm and can be reached at prospectheights@playto.com or (212) 590-2445. Feel free to contact her with any questions or concerns!
Sylvia Lorgen
Assistant Director at Playto Battery Park
Sylvia is an Early Childhood Educator with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a minor in Sociology from Adelphi University, along with a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education from Touro College. She holds a Professional Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities. Sylvia is passionate about fostering a love of learning in young children and believes that Early Educators play a vital role in building a strong foundation for their educational journey.
In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, yoga, and spending quality time with her family and dog. Sylvia is dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing environment for each child, recognizing their unique qualities and partnering with families to support their growth.
