Chaya Zlatopolsky brings nearly four decades of experience in special education, curriculum development, behavioral intervention, parent advocacy, and mediated learning to her leadership at PlayThinks.

As Founder and CEO, Chaya developed PlayThinks’ unique model, which blends Feuerstein’s Mediated Learning approach with ABA-based supports, sensory-rich environments, academic intervention, and individualized programming. Her work focuses on helping each learner build thinking skills, emotional regulation, communication, independence, and confidence.

Chaya has worked with learners from early childhood through adulthood across general education, bilingual and ESL classrooms, special education programs, therapeutic settings, and consultation roles. She is known for her ability to quickly understand a learner’s needs, identify what is blocking progress, and design practical interventions that help the learner move forward.

Chaya holds a master’s degree in Special Education from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Anne Blitstein Teachers Institute. She is certified in Elementary Education, Special Education, Bilingual Education, and ESL, and is a Golden Apple Award winner. At PlayThinks, she continues to train instructors, guide families, and build a model of learning support that sees each child as capable of growth.