About Midori Nakasima

Program Leader, Happy Day Play at JCC of Staten Island

“Connecting, creating core memories, and building community—I believe there’s always space for authenticity that makes individuals feel truly seen. As a teacher, I strive for meaningful one-on-one engagement, noticing the smallest details, actively listening to their stories, celebrating their successes, and offering empathy on challenging days. I cherish every beautiful moment in class and capture special moments with photos, so they can revisit our time together at Happy Day Play in the future.”
— Ms. Midori

Background and Expertise

Midori brings a wealth of expertise in human behavior, organizational management, and psychological well-being, underpinned by her Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree and certifications with a focus on Positive Psychology. With over a decade dedicated to professional childcare, Midori has nurtured children from newborns to six years old, fostering nurturing and structured environments through her calm demeanor, proactive approach, and supportive nature. Her skill in engaging children in educational activities has led many to achieve fluency in Spanish under her care.

In addition to her childcare roles, Midori has excelled as a camp coordinator demonstrating strong preparation and management skills. Her commitment to education is further evidenced by her teaching of Bible study to children aged 6-10 and 12-16 at Instituto Lasalle de Chihuahua, highlighting her versatility and dedication in shaping young minds.

Midori's dedication extends beyond professional childcare to community service, where she has committed three weeks annually for five years to support families in the Sierra Tarahumara, Chihuahua, Mexico. Her efforts have included painting houses, teaching children literacy skills, securing sponsors for essential supplies, and constructing roofs to improve living conditions and ensure warmer winters for local families. Her commitment to community betterment underscores her passion for making a meaningful impact beyond her professional roles.

Ms. Midori supporting families in Sierra Tarahumara, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Favorite Piece of Parenting Advice

“Every person you see is fighting their own battles. Be KIND always.”

“Spanish Immersion Social Playgroup is my favorite because of the sense of community and love for the Spanish language. I enjoy sharing my culture and background with our families,” she says.

Favorite Class at Happy Day Play

Ms. Midori as a young child in Mexico. She enjoys sharing her culture and background with families in Happy Day Play’s Spanish Immersion Social Playgroup.

Favorite Event at Happy Day Play

Daddy Derby: Father’s Day Family Event and the Peter Rabbit Party.

A Letter of Love to the Happy Day Play Community

“We are so happy to have you here, prioritizing quality time with your family. There truly is no greater parent or caregiver for your child than you—yes, YOU! You're brave enough to live the life of your dreams, aligned with your vision and purpose, and you've found a place that sees and supports you, and is here for you.

Let’s make some memories together.”

Fun Facts About Ms. Midori

  • Pink

  • “I LOVE cake. I look forward to birthdays to try different flavors and textures. In Mexico, I used to bake cakes for family and friends, feeling deeply invested in each one,” she says.

  • Photography, working out, Zumba classes, baking, and shopping.

  • “The pretend kitchen with a functional sink, dishes, fruits, and vegetables. Watching Harrison, my son, use his imagination to create different recipes daily is delightful. It helps practice vocabulary and host the cutest tea parties with his Sesame Street friends,” she says.

Ms. Midori leading an Earth-day inspired yoga session for our families.

From Midori on Becoming a Mom

“Being a mom is everything I didn’t know I wanted to be. It has taught me strength and fearlessness. Even if I doubt myself, I always find the strength to show up because of my son. I feel immensely grateful and lucky to be his mom.”

”My son Harrison, named after Harrison Ford, is everything to me. At home, we are huge fans of Star Wars so as soon as we knew we were having a boy, my husband started brainstorming about different names Star Wars related.”

Ms. Midori not only teaches children, but our grown-ups as well! Here she is presenting flashcards to our dedicated parents and grandparents who want to learn Spanish language basics.