Inclusive Kids Play Studio

FOUNDER + CEO

Dr. Peterson is a passionate educator, administrator, author, and mother dedicated to helping children and families thrive. With over 15 years of experience in education, she holds multiple degrees in educational leadership and special education. Her journey began as a Teach for America Corps Member in San Jose, and since then, she has served in both classroom and district leadership roles.

Rooted in her own early childhood experiences, Dr. Peterson believes deeply in the power of strong relationships, inclusion, and connection. This belief inspired her to found Inclusive Kids, with locations in both Fresno and San Diego, as well as The Play Studio—a space built on joy, access, and belonging for all children.

In addition to her work as a business owner, she is an adjunct professor in both teacher credentialing and school psychology programs, and the author of the children’s book Be Inclusive, which encourages young readers to value differences and celebrate inclusion. She is also a proud mom to Kyden and Kinsley, and loves spending her free time reading, traveling, trying new restaurants, and enjoying life with family. Monica is excited to keep expanding the reach of Inclusive Kids and continue building spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

PROGRAMS DIRECTOR

Elisabed is a dedicated early childhood educator with over ten years of experience in inclusive preschools, early intervention, and community-based programs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development from California State University, Sacramento, and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from California State University, Fresno. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at Fresno State.

Passionate about inclusion and play-based learning, Elisabed believes every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued. As a bilingual English and Spanish speaker, she is especially passionate about building meaningful connections with Spanish-speaking children and families and creating inclusive learning experiences where every child can thrive.

DIRECTOR OF PLAY

Katie is a dedicated early childhood educator with over ten years of experience working in diverse educational settings, including daycares, after-school programs, as a paraeducator, and as an inclusive preschool teacher. With seven years of professional experience in special education and a strong personal connection to the autism community, she is a passionate advocate for inclusion. Katie firmly believes that every child deserves equal access to education and full participation in their community.

She holds an Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Child Development at California State University, Fresno. Guided by a child-first philosophy, Katie emphasizes the importance of meaningful connection as the foundation of effective teaching. Her approach centers on fostering curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love of learning through hands-on, play-based experiences. She is especially passionate about sensory-rich activities and believes that play is a powerful tool through which children explore, discover, and build confidence in their world.