About Us
We believe childhood is a time for exploration, risk-taking, and discovering what you can do. In line with developmental and educational research, we emphasize open-ended play, especially outdoors, as a key part of learning. We then connect these play experiences to developmental milestones and early childhood educational standards. We want students to experience, question, observe, and investigate, fueling their curiosity and leading to more questions. This process of natural child-led exploration and joyful learning is the true magic of play.
Our Program
Magic of Play Preschool was founded in 2024 by Michelle Shilakes. For more details about our program, you can read our family handbook here.
Our Building
Our building is currently in the construction stage and is expected to be completed by late Fall 2025. Our first group of children will begin shortly after. We’ve designed the space with a focus on creating the ideal environment for early childhood education. The building will be 6,000 square feet, featuring 3 classrooms, each with access to the outdoors and their own bathroom. We will also have an Art Room and plenty of outdoor space for play and exploration.
Michelle Shilakes
Director & Owner
Michelle is the Director and Founder of Magic of Play Preschool. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Western Michigan University and has over 15 years of experience working with children ages 0–5, specializing in preschool education. Michelle’s experiences include serving as a lead teacher, mentoring staff, and directing a preschool summer camp. She is currently continuing her education in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and has completed her Forest School Teacher certification.
A long-time resident of East Lansing, Michelle is married and has three children who attend East Lansing Public Schools.
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Miss Bekah is a lead teacher in our Preschool Room. She’s worked in early childhood education for 7 years and absolutely loves it! She has an Associate’s Degree and a Montessori teaching credential, which helps her create fun, nurturing spaces where kids can grow at their own pace. Miss Bekah’s teaching style is all about fostering independence, curiosity, and respect for each child’s unique way of learning. As a Lead Teacher, she focuses on building a play-based environment where children feel safe, confident, and excited to explore the world around them.
When she’s not teaching, she’s at home with her 1-year-old son, Lukas, their cat, and two playful dogs. She’s so excited to be a part of the Magic of Play team and can’t wait to meet your little ones and watch them grow!
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Ms. Melissa is a lead teacher in our Preschool Room. She has a bachelor's degree in early childhood development and learning, and is excited to bring her love of education and learning to Magic of Play. Ms. Melissa is married to her high school sweetheart and has one grown daughter, along with two bearded dragons who keep life fun at home. She enjoys reading, watching movies, browsing antique shops, and spending time outdoors riding her bike or taking a walk with her husband. She is looking forward to getting to know the children, their families, and the staff at Magic of Play.
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Ms. Donna is a lead teacher in our Toddler Room. She has a bachelor’s degree in art history and a master’s degree in elementary education. Her experiences include elementary school, STEM curriculum development, Montessori classrooms, behavioral health services, and homeschooling. She lives in East Lansing with her family and enjoys a life full of friends, adventures, and corny jokes.
Ms. Donna is continuing her education in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and with Forest School Teacher training. She’s excited to spend time talking, connecting, and exploring with Magic of Play’s new students!
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Ms. Kelsey is a lead teacher in our Toddler Room. She’s been teaching for 6 years and has worked with kids between 6-weeks old up to fifth grade! Most recently as a reading teacher in an elementary. She and her boyfriend have a dog and a cat and like to be outside with them in their free time. She also does a lot of art in her spare time as well! Ms. Kelsey is looking forward to getting to know everyone at Magic of Play.
“It’s the things we play with and the people who help us play that make a great difference in our lives. ”
— Fred Rogers
Have Questions?
We know starting preschool is a big step, and you might have questions! That’s why we’ve created an FAQ page with all the details you need, from what to expect day-to-day to gear recommendations.
Visit our FAQ page for answers or feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
