Kids Play Childcare Center

Merlyz Quezada

School Director

My name is Merlyz, I am the Director of Kidsplay Early Learning Center. I attended the University of Rhode Island. I’ve obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Science and a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Gender and Women Studies, both of which shape the way I approach early childhood education. I have been working with children in a variety of learning settings, supporting their growth, curiosity, and emotional wellbeing.

In my role as Director, I prioritize creating a positive, structured environment where both children and educators can thrive. I value strong communication, consistency and safety, and I am committed to building a culture where children feel secure, families feel heard, and educators feel supported in their work.

Danielle Mutter

Assistant Director

My name is Danielle Mutter, I am the Assistant Director. I went to the University of Rhode Island. I majored in Human Development and Family Studies with a Concentration in Early Childhood Education and I minored in Psychology. I love the “Ah Ha” moments when a child learns/masters a new skill or reaches a new developmental milestone. It is so fun to interact with the children and get to know their individual qualities. Also, the connections that you make with the teachers and families are like no other field.I enjoy spending time with my family, both immediate and extended. We love being outside, camping, boating, exploring new places and being social.

I started formally working in early childhood education when I was 16 years old as a teacher’s aid and have since worked in all age groups as a teacher assistant, Lead Infant Teacher. Most of my career has been spent in administration as an Assistant Director, Director and Mentor Director. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in School Counseling. I am passionate about advancing the field of Early Childhood Education to be recognized on the same level of elementary education and beyond. Emphasizing the need for more targeted education and training for educators at this level is crucial. Also, more awareness on the public level for recognition in this field

Jen Estiverne

Teacher of the Year

My name is Ms. Jen and I am the lead Pre-K teacher. I attended New York University for undergraduate and received my Masters in teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education. During undergrad, I studied Political Science with a focus in education policy. My masters is in Early Childhood Education. I love early childhood education because it opens the door to possibility at a time when kids are at their most curious and impressionable. It’s that magical phase when blocks become castles, scribbles become stories, and play turns into powerful learning.

In my free time, I love being outdoors with my family—whether we’re hiking through local trails, having a picnic at the park, or just soaking up sunshine in the backyard. I’m all about staying active and connected to nature—whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply stretching out under a big sky, moving my body outdoors keeps me energized and grounded. And when it’s time to slow down, I love diving into a good book—reading gives me space to reflect, learn, and explore new perspectives.

I began my career in early childhood education in 2014, teaching Pre-K at a performing arts charter school in New Orleans. For eight incredible years, I had the joy of blending creativity with foundational learning in a vibrant, arts-centered environment. In 2022, I moved to Rhode Island and joined the team here at Kids Play, as the pre-k teacher and education coordinator. One thing I’d love for my co-workers and families at Cadence Academy Preschool to know is how passionate I am about social-emotional learning. I truly believe it’s the heart of early childhood education—helping children recognize and express their feelings, build empathy, and develop strong relationships. It’s incredibly rewarding to create a classroom environment where every child feels seen, heard, and supported not just academically, but emotionally too.