About Nicolette Ivanicki

Program Assistant, Happy Day Play at JCC of Staten Island

A woman and a young boy smiling and hugging in a classroom setting, with other children and adults in the blurred background. The image includes text overlays saying "Best Friends Forever," "Happy Day Play Family Learning," and a sun logo.
“I believe in fostering a student-centered environment where curiosity is nurtured, and learning is a collaborative journey. After working in different classrooms and elementary schools while completing my fieldwork at CSI, I realized my favorite part about teaching is making a difference in children’s lives. Working at Happy Day Play has been instrumental in enhancing my teaching skills and overall confidence. I proudly serve as the CFO (Chief Friendship Officer), ensuring every child feels valued and cherished.”
— Miss Nicolette

Background and Expertise

Nicolette recently obtained her Childhood Education Degree for Grades 1-6 from the College of Staten Island. Her experience spans working with children from birth to nine years old in both special education and general education settings. Nicolette enjoys engaging with her younger cousins through fun activities, including sensory art projects inspired by her time at Happy Day Play. She has also taken on roles like Elsa from “Frozen” to create magical moments for children at birthday parties and loves babysitting children of all ages.

Nicolette has been celebrated for her exceptional academic achievements and community contributions, earning a place on the Dean’s List every year at the College of Staten Island. She has received prestigious awards including The Angela Secher Community Service Award and the Fostering the Gift of Helping Others Award from the Miss Staten Island Pageant. Nicolette's athletic prowess is also notable, having been recognized as an All American Nominee in Cheerleading.

Beyond her academic and athletic endeavors, she actively advocates for social change through her participation in the Miss Staten Island and Miss Richmond County Pageants, where she champions her anti-bullying initiative, "Don’t Stand By, Stand Up."

A young girl with blonde hair in a ponytail, smiling, wearing a white top and pink pants, carrying a pink and black checkered backpack, standing in a hallway with beige walls and tiled floor.

Miss Nicolette as a little girl!

Favorite Class at Happy Day Play

“It’s so hard to choose between Music and Spanish!” she says.

A young woman with blonde hair and a pink crown is smiling at a young girl wearing a pink and white dress at a booth in a gymnasium during a celebration or event, with balloons and colorful decorations.

Miss Nicolette setting up a DIY tiara scratch art station at our Mom Prom

Favorite Event at Happy Day Play

Peter Rabbit Party!

A woman in a pink sweatshirt is kneeling on the floor and hugging a young girl. The girl is wearing a beige top, dark leggings with white hearts, and a large white bow in her hair. They are in a room with music stands, a drum, and a chair in the background.

Miss Nicolette takes her role as Chief Friendship Officer (CFO) very seriously!

A Letter of Love to the Happy Day Play Community

I am thrilled to be a part of the Happy Day Play community! It has been a joy getting to know each and every one of your children and seeing their bright smiles in our classes. It is truly a privilege to be a part of their growth and witness their milestones. From seeing babies sit up on their own for the first time, to watching them experience bubbles for the first time, I love being able to see each child break out of their shell more and more as they come to our classes. Before you know it, they’re basically running our classes, telling us what they want to do next, and when they’re ‘all done!’

At Happy Day Play, we are committed to creating a nurturing environment where your child can learn, grow, and thrive. I am dedicated to fostering their curiosity, encouraging their creativity, and supporting their unique personalities and strengths. Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of being a part of your child’s early years. I look forward to continuing to build strong partnerships with you and your family!

To many more bubbles and dance parties,
Nicolette

A woman with light brown hair, wearing a tie-dye shirt, is sitting on the floor and playing with a young boy who is sitting on a wooden slide in a gymnasium. The boy is wearing light-colored pants, a white shirt with a yellow smiley face pin, and gray socks. A woman in the background is sitting on a bench, and another woman in a beige outfit is standing nearby. The gymnasium has high ceilings, bright lighting, and blue padded walls.

Miss Nicolette helping one of our little friends down our elephant slide.

Girl wearing large sunglasses, beige coat with fluffy fur collar and cuffs, standing indoors near a door, with her mouth open in a surprised or excited expression.

Miss Nicolette has always known the importance of dramatic, imaginative play in a child’s development.

Meet the Whole Team

Fun Facts About Miss Nicolette

  • Pink

  • “I was supposed to be named Madison, but I was born seven days early on my dad’s birthday, Nicholas. That’s why I was named Nicolette after my father. A few days later and I would’ve been Madison,” she says.

  • Nicolette enjoys shopping, reading, and listening to music.

  • “My favorite children’s toy has to be the classic, timeless teddy bear. Teddy bears provide comfort, companionship, and a sense of security to children. They often become cherished companions, accompanying kids on adventures and providing comfort during times of need," she says.

A young girl with blonde hair smiling at the camera, sitting at a table in a white blouse with a shiny dress overlay.

Nicolette as a little girl thinking about becoming a teacher when she grows up!