When Monica Forty-Way watched her own children thrive through early intervention in New York, something clicked. “I watched firsthand how therapists used play to teach communication, problem-solving, social skills, and confidence,” she says. “It wasn’t just fun — it was intentional, meaningful, and incredibly effective.”
That experience became The Happy Noggin & Co. — sensory play experiences for families across Central Florida, with a focus on St. Cloud, Kissimmee, and Orlando. As a certified Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist with a master’s in Special Education, Monica blends evidence-based early intervention with the pure joy of hands-on play, helping children build communication, social-emotional, sensory, and pre-academic skills along the way.
What makes it different
Plenty of people offer sensory play. Monica brings more than 20 years in early childhood and special education to every class and setup — and it shows. She doesn’t just put out materials and let kids play; every sensory bin and activity is intentionally designed to support a child’s specific developmental needs, from fine motor skills to self-regulation to early academics.
She also sees families from both sides — as an educator and early intervention specialist, and as a parent whose own children benefited from it. She knows what it’s like to search for answers and celebrate the small victories. So the goal is never just to entertain kids for an hour; it’s to give parents meaningful experiences they can recreate at home.
We believe the most meaningful learning happens through play — building children’s skills while empowering parents to be part of the journey.
— Monica, The Happy Noggin & Co.
What parents say
One moment captures it best. “A parent recently told me, ‘You don’t just teach the kids — you’re teaching the parents how to connect through play,’” Monica shares. That’s exactly what she hopes every family walks away with: not just a fun hour, but the confidence and tools to keep the learning going at home.
Good to know
Monica recommends booking as early as possible — weekends, holidays, and seasonal themes fill quickly, especially for birthday parties and community events. And for families considering early intervention services, she encourages reaching out even if you’re unsure: “A conversation is always the best first step.” Every experience is thoughtfully planned and customized to the children and families she serves.
Ready to book The Happy Noggin & Co.?
See availability, explore her sensory experiences, and book directly in the app — no back-and-forth texts.
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