Exceptional Daycare Center in Coal Valley, IL Playtime University

At Playtime University, our staff is the heart of everything we do. Every classroom laugh, every milestone reached, and every moment of comfort and encouragement comes from the dedicated team members who show up each day with patience, professionalism, and genuine care. We believe that a nurturing early childhood experience starts with the people who guide it — and we are proud of the team that makes Playtime University a trusted name for families in Coal Valley, IL.

As a locally owned and licensed daycare center, we take great care in building a staff that reflects our values: safety, compassion, consistency, and a deep respect for childhood development. Our educators and caregivers work collaboratively to create an environment where children feel secure, supported, and inspired to learn at their own pace.

Meet Our Staff

We are proud to introduce the team members who help make Playtime University a place where children thrive:

Woman with wavy blonde hair and blue eyes looking at the camera, wearing a black top.

Kristie Amato


Owner / Director

Woman smiling, wearing a patterned top, with long brown hair.

Nicole Quick

Woman with long dark hair smiles, teal shirt, arm tattoo.

Rebecca Mellnitz

Woman with glasses smiles; dark hair, neutral background, wearing a necklace.

Carlie Allen

Woman with long curly brown hair smiling in a studio photo, wearing a black top.

Valerie Gomez

Woman with long dark hair, wearing a necklace, smiling.

Salena Ripperton

Woman with brown hair and glasses smiling at the camera, wearing a dark red shirt.

Hayley Fielder

Person with glasses smiles; light-colored shirt; text beneath reads

Jazamyne Basting

Young person with brown hair smiles, dark top, portrait.

Taylor Kleuver

Man with long hair pulled back, wearing a white shirt, smiling, studio shot against a light blue background.

Jacob Schmidt

Each member of our staff brings care, dedication, and a shared passion for early childhood education. Together, they create the supportive, engaging environment that families have come to trust.

Leadership You Can Rely On

Playtime University is led by a hands-on owner and director who is deeply invested in both the children and the staff. Leadership sets the tone for the entire center, and our approach prioritizes open communication, consistency, and high standards of care. Families can feel confident knowing that our team operates under thoughtful guidance and a shared commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

A Team Built on Trust and Care

Choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes. At Playtime University, we understand that trust is earned through transparency, professionalism, and everyday interactions. Our staff is committed to providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere where children are known, valued, and encouraged as individuals.

Our team supports children across every stage of early development, including:

Infant Care

Toddler Care

Preschool & Pre-K Programs

Early Childhood Education

Licensed Childcare Center

From first steps and first words to early literacy and social skills, our caregivers are present for the moments that matter most. Each staff member plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, structured, and joyful learning environment that allows children to explore confidently and grow emotionally, socially, and academically.

Collaboration Across Classrooms

Our staff works as a unified team rather than isolated classrooms. This collaborative approach ensures:

Black circle with a white check mark.

Consistent routines and expectations

Black circle with a white check mark.

Smooth transitions between age groups

Black circle with white checkmark.

Clear communication with families

Black circle with a white check mark.

Ongoing support between educators

By working together, our team creates a cohesive experience for children as they move through different developmental stages at Playtime University. Familiar faces, shared values, and continuity of care help children feel comfortable and confident in their environment.

Commitment to Safety and Growth

Safety is foundational at Playtime University, and our staff treats it as a daily priority. From classroom supervision to structured routines, our caregivers are attentive, proactive, and responsive. Beyond physical safety, we are equally committed to emotional well-being — fostering kindness, empathy, and positive peer interactions throughout the day.

Our educators also understand that early childhood is a time of rapid growth and discovery. They support learning through:

Black circle with a white check mark.

Age-appropriate play

Black circle with a white check mark.

Guided exploration

Black circle with a white check mark.

Creative activities

Black circle with a white check mark.

Encouragement of curiosity and independence

Every interaction is an opportunity to build confidence and a love for learning that lasts well beyond the daycare years.

A Foundation for Lifelong Learning

At Playtime University, we believe early childhood education is about more than preparing for kindergarten — it’s about laying the foundation for a lifetime of confidence, curiosity, and connection. Our staff understands the importance of these formative years and approaches each day with intention and heart.

Located in the heart of Coal Valley, Illinois, our center is proud to serve local families with dependable, high-quality childcare in a setting that feels like a second home. Whether your child is just beginning their journey or preparing for their next big step, our team is here to support them every step of the way.

Located in the heart of Coal Valley, Illinois, our center is proud to serve local families with dependable, high-quality childcare in a setting that feels like a second home. Whether your child is just beginning their journey or preparing for their next big step, our team is here to support them every step of the way.

Black telephone handset icon.

Call Today

Black envelope icon.
Clock icon showing the time is 2:00.

Open

Monday–Friday, 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Schedule a Tour or Learn More Today