Next Generation Kids Klub

Pediatric Occupational Therapist, P.L.A.Y. Program

Andrea Goldie brings nearly two decades of pediatric occupational therapy experience to Next Generation Playground’s Kids Klub, where she co-leads our P.L.A.Y. (Positive Learning Activities for Youth) groups. Andrea specializes in supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is deeply committed to creating inclusive, engaging spaces where children of all abilities can thrive.

Throughout her career, Andrea has worked in a wide range of settings—from self-contained autism classrooms to after-school programs at the Autism Training Center in Lisle. Since 2007, she has also been a dedicated early intervention therapist, helping young children reach critical developmental milestones through individualized, play-based care.

Outside of her clinical work, Andrea continues her mission of inclusion as a coach for a local special needs cheerleading team, where she fosters confidence, teamwork, and joy in every athlete.

Pediatric Speech Therapist, P.L.A.Y. Program

Michelle Schwantz is a dedicated pediatric speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. As a co-leader of Next Generation Playground’s P.L.A.Y. (Positive Learning Activities for Youth) groups, Michelle brings a compassionate, child-led approach to fostering communication and social skills.

Founder of Schwantz Pediatric Therapy Inc., Michelle integrates relationship-based care with DIR/Floortime techniques to create individualized, meaningful therapy sessions. She specializes in neuro-affirming practices and augmentative communication, ensuring all children have access to tools and strategies that empower their voice and self-expression.

Pediatric Speech Therapist, S.T.E.P.S Program 

Molly is passionate about helping little ones build confidence and self-regulation skills while fostering speech and language growth in engaging, interactive ways. She has worked across schools, homes, and clinics, bringing a wealth of expertise to every session.

Now, Molly is leading our new S.T.E.P.S. (Speech Therapy and Early Phonics Sessions) program, designed especially for children ages 2–5 to develop early literacy and communication skills in a fun, sensory-rich environment.

When she’s not helping kids find their voice, Molly is a proud mom of two and a devoted dog mom.

Pediatric Speech Therapist 

M.U.S.I.C Program

Brianna is a bilingual (Spanish-English) speech-language pathologist with a passion for using music and language to support communication development in young children. She holds a master’s degree in speech-language pathology with a bilingual specialization from Marquette University, as well as a degree in music performance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Brianna brings experience from a wide range of pediatric settings, including bilingual schools, Head Start programs, clinics, Early Intervention, and school-based evaluations. She currently provides bilingual evaluations through Early Intervention and the Center for Special Education Services. Brianna is dedicated to helping children thrive through creative, individualized, and culturally responsive therapy.

Board Certified Music Therapist 

M.U.S.I.C Program

Lilly is a board-certified music therapist with over five years of experience supporting children with diverse needs, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual and developmental disabilities, ADHD, and other health impairments. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from the University of Iowa and a minor in American Sign Language.

Lilly is also a certified Music Together® teacher and offers both traditional and adapted music lessons. She works with students of all ages and ability levels, creating inclusive, engaging experiences that use music to support communication, motor skills, and emotional development. Lilly currently partners with Next Generation Playground through Encore Music Academy to lead the MUSIC program.