Welcome to Playful Pathways (formerly Tot School), a nurturing early learning program dedicated to providing a stimulating and joyful experience for children ages 2-5. Our play-based approach encourages exploration, creativity, and social development.
Our Philosophy:
Playful Pathways is built on the belief that meaningful learning happens when children feel safe, supported, and engaged. Our programs intentionally balance child-led play with teacher-guided instruction, allowing children to build foundational skills while developing independence and self-confidence.
We incorporate evidence-based programs such as Second Step for social-emotional learning and Really Great Reading to support early literacy development. Math concepts, problem-solving, fine- and gross-motor skills, and early language development are woven naturally into daily activities, routines, and play experiences.
Meet the Teachers:
Miss Katrina- Owner/Director/Teacher
Miss Katrina graduated from Syracuse University in 2007 with a degree in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education and earned her master’s degree in Literacy Education in 2008. She holds New York State certifications in Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2), Childhood Education (Grades 1–6), Literacy (Birth–Grade 6), and Special Education.
She spent five years teaching at the elementary level in Hamilton, NY, followed by six years teaching kindergarten in public schools. Katrina concluded her public school teaching career in 2019 with the birth of her third child.
In 2022, Katrina opened Little Village Play in Manlius, where she later introduced Tot School—a program that quickly became her passion. As Tot School grew and the vision expanded beyond play, Playful Pathways was born. With the sale of Little Village Play, Katrina is excited to fully focus on providing high-quality, play-based early learning through Playful Pathways.
Katrina is a proud mom of three children, ages 5, 11, and 12. She has a deep love for working with toddlers and preschoolers and finds endless joy in watching children grow in confidence, curiosity, and independence during these foundational years.
Mrs. Hill- Teacher
Mrs. Bev Hill is a seasoned and nurturing educator with 19 years of experience in early childhood education. She began her career at Broadbent School. She then joined Immaculate Conception School, serving as a teaching assistant in Pre-K for 9 years and in Kindergarten for 2 years.
For the past several years, Mrs. Hill has been part of the Little Village Play team, leading themed summer camps, birthday parties, Kids’ Night Out, and special events. In 2025, she joined our Tot School staff.
She is married and a proud mom of two daughters and one son.
Miss Laurel- Teacher
Laurel was one of the first team members at LVP when our doors opened in the fall of 2022. You may have seen her working open play or as a Tot School Teacher. We have been fortunate to have Miss Laurel with us as a Tot School teacher for three years. She has a background in education including an undergraduate and graduate degree from Boston College. She is Mom to two middle school aged kids and has two rescued cats. In her free time, she is an avid runner and black belt Tae Kwon Do student.
Miss Lauren- Teacher
Miss Lauren has been a valued member of the Tot School program for the past three years. With a background in music education, she brings energy, creativity, and a deep love of music into the classroom—especially with our youngest learners.
Before returning to the Syracuse area, Lauren taught in the YMCA preschool program in Rochester, where she gained hands-on experience supporting early childhood development in a play-based setting.
Lauren is also a proud mom to a 4-year-old son. Her warm, fun, and creative approach helps children feel comfortable, confident, and excited to learn. We feel incredibly lucky to have Miss Lauren as part of the Playful Pathways community.
Miss Andrea- Teacher
Miss Andrea has been part of our program for the past two years. She began as a trusted substitute teacher in our Tot School and quickly grew into the role of a full-time teacher.
Andrea is creative, nurturing, and especially gifted at creating engaging sensory experiences for young learners. Her thoughtfully designed sensory bins support exploration, fine motor development, and hands-on learning.
She is also a proud mom to a son in first grade, which brings an added layer of empathy and understanding to her work with children. We are so grateful to have Miss Andrea as part of the Playful Pathways team.
