OLIVIA

Hugs & Bugs Club was born from a dream and a very energetic little boy. As a mom, I wanted a place where my children could dive into messy, hands-on fun, learn through real experiences, and build friendships in a warm, supportive community. When I couldn't find exactly that, I created it.

I grew up in a wildly creative home where imagination was celebrated, and that spirit never left me. I earned a BA from Rutgers University and an MA in English Language and Literature from The University of Chicago. Writing, art, and theater have shaped my life and my approach to early childhood education.

In 2015, inspired by my son Jackson's boundless curiosity and energy, and with his little brother Rex on the way, I founded Hugs & Bugs Club. What started as a sensory play space grew into a Reggio-inspired preschool, summer camps, and process art classes, all rooted in the belief that children learn best through creative play and nature. I am so grateful every day to share that belief with the families and little ones who make this place what it is.

MS. LUISA

Kids have a remarkable way of teaching us that every day is a fresh start, brimming with new opportunities, like making a new friend. Their ability to find joy in the simplest things and see silliness everywhere never fails to light up my world. It is a constant reminder of why I love what I do.

My background is in nursing, and my years as a teacher at Hugs & Bugs Club revealed my true calling. Working with children. For the past decade, I have had the privilege of being part of their incredible journey, and it has been just as transformative for me as it has been for them.

That is why I am so grateful to be part of the Hugs & Bugs Club family! This creative, nurturing environment lets children explore and discover through sensory play, sparking their senses and imaginations. I adore teaching here, and now sharing that same joy with my own daughter in classes makes it even more special. Hugs & Bugs Club is not just a place to work. It is a community where I get to grow alongside the kids every day.

MS. TENSEL

From an early age, my love for teaching has shaped my path. I earned a BA in Teaching English, Italian, and German as Foreign Languages, followed by an MS in Teaching English as a Second Language from the City College of New York. Over the years I have taught languages in diverse classrooms, from Romania to New Jersey and New York, learning firsthand how vital it is to weave students' interests into their education.

When I stepped away from teaching to immerse myself in my children's early years, I discovered Hugs & Bugs Club and it was a revelation. This play-based, nature-infused approach spoke to my heart. Unlike traditional settings, Hugs & Bugs celebrates each child's individuality, nurturing their creativity and honoring their unique passions.

At Hugs & Bugs Club, I love finding ways to bring the outdoors in, whether by transforming everyday materials into learning tools or turning recycled items into art. My classroom buzzes with exploration through sensory materials, light and shadows, masterpieces by Picasso and Matisse, transient art, math through play, and carefully chosen stories. Every day is a chance to inspire and be inspired.

MS. DANI

I am a Hoboken girl through and through, raised on my dad's tales of growing up here and now proud to call it home for over a decade. I have worn many hats as a filmmaker, fitness instructor, film camp director, and more. But nothing compares to the joy of teaching children. At Hugs & Bugs Club I have found a space that fuels my passion, giving me the freedom to inspire through imagination and hands-on creation as our students learn and play.

Arts and crafts are my heart and soul. I truly believe they are a gateway to life's biggest lessons and that patience, problem-solving, and self-expression are all wrapped up in the fun of making something with your hands. When I am not at Hugs & Bugs Club, you will find me crafting, diving into a good book, or strolling Hoboken's streets with my dogs, David and Darla, by my side.

MS. KIM

I have always been a Jersey girl at heart, with roots that have shaped who I am today. I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology and went on to receive my Master's degree in Occupational Therapy.

Working at Hugs & Bugs Club has been such a gift. Watching kids unleash their creativity and dive into sensory exploration without limits is an incredible sight to see. I am so grateful to be part of this family and cannot wait to keep learning, growing, and sharing joy alongside all the amazing kids who make this place so magical.

MS. ALEJA

From a very early age I always had an interest in learning, playing, and teaching children. I completed a BA in Childhood Education and Pedagogy, and later pursued an M.S.Ed in Bilingual Childhood Education from The City College of New York. Over a decade of experience as a head teacher, caregiver, tutor, and assistant teacher have equipped me with expertise in adapting to the needs of each group, lesson planning, and building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.

As a mother of two, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the magic of learning and exploration. My children's boundless energy and curiosity have inspired me to continue seeking innovative approaches to education that support children in thriving and staying true to themselves.

Being part of Hugs & Bugs Club is the perfect fit for me. I am drawn to environments that value creativity, critical thinking, and community, and this is exactly that. I am thrilled to be part of a team that prioritizes children's growth and well-being, and excited to help every child flourish and reach their full potential.

MS. NICOLE

My love for teaching started when I was little, and after eight incredible years as a Teacher Assistant, that passion is still going strong! I spend my days creating a supportive and engaging space where every student feels comfortable to learn. My main goal is to always be a safe place for them, helping young learners grow, overcome hurdles, and become the best version of themselves.

Hugs & Bugs Club gives me a wonderful opportunity to share my passion and grow as an educator. I feel so lucky to connect with the incredible families, children, and staff who make this place truly special.