Meet Our Teachers

Our team is dedicated to nurturing early childhood development with a passion for hands-on, meaningful learning. Our teachers draw inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy, creating an environment where children explore, play, and express themselves authentically, fostering imagination, empathy, and joy. They are committed to crafting interest-driven lessons that challenge young minds while nurturing social-emotional growth through caring, trusting relationships.

  • So Yeon Son

    DIRECTOR

    So Yeon is the heart behind Little Atelier, believing that early childhood education should allow children the freedom to explore, play, and express themselves authentically. Her passion was ignited during an internship at a Reggio-inspired school in NYC during her master’s program, where she experienced the transformative power of the Reggio Emilia philosophy firsthand. Inspired by visits to preschools in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and active participation in the North America Reggio Emilia Alliance, she embraced an approach that nurtures imagination, curiosity, confidence, empathy, and joy. At Little Atelier, So Yeon channels this inspiration to create an environment where every child is encouraged to wonder, make choices, and feel deeply loved.

    Education:
    - BA in Psychology, NYU
    - MA in Early Childhood Education, Teachers College, Columbia University

    Certification:
    - NYS Certified for Birth to 2nd Grade (General & Special Education)

  • Esther Ko

    HEAD TEACHER

    Esther is dedicated to crafting meaningful learning experiences that cater to the unique interests and developmental stages of each child. By designing lessons that weave together familiar interests with fresh, challenging concepts, she fosters an environment where curiosity and critical thinking flourish. Beyond academics, Esther places a high value on social-emotional growth, ensuring that every student feels seen, loved, and supported. Her commitment is to nurture active, explorative learners who grow up to positively impact society.

    Education:
    - BA in Social Work and Psychology, Syracuse University
    - MA in Early Childhood Education, Queens College

  • Erie Jin

    ASSISTANT TEACHER

    Erie is passionate about creating a classroom where children feel free to explore, play, and express themselves through creative outlets. She believes that play is how young children make sense of the world and develop important social and emotional skills. By getting to know each child individually, Erie helps them feel seen, supported, and confident in their learning journey. She is dedicated to fostering a safe and loving environment where curiosity and creativity can flourish. Currently studying for a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling, Erie hopes to become a play therapist, continuing to help children heal and grow by making them feel seen, known, and heard.

    Education:
    - BA in Early Childhood Education, Queens College

    - Currently pursuing MS in Mental Health Counseling, Queens College

  • Dania Garcia

    SUPPORTING TEACHER

    Dania values the importance of creating a loving and nurturing classroom community where all her students can learn, discover, and grow. Dania’s goal is to support children while they learn about themselves and the world around them. Dania believes in helping children develop the tools they need to learn about their feelings and problem solve during play and every day activities.