Linda Dodds - Creator & Facilitator

Having recently relocated to Asheville I bring my passion, knowledge and love of young children with me all the way from Kansas City, Missouri. Playspace was created from a desire to give Asheville a space for infants, toddlers and their caregivers to experience an enriched indoor play space, unique programming while creating a connected community.

My journey with young children began in Geneva, Switzerland when my oldest daughter went off to school for the first time, leaving her younger sister and I staring at each other. I created the first Toddler Group in the community , which drew moms from all nationalities, in all situations who, like me, were looking for connection, friendships and a chance for their children to play. The Toddler Group has evolved into something bigger than I ever dreamed and is now an expansive multi-program infant, toddler and mom group, called Playgroup and Literacy Program. www.plpgeneva.org/literacyclasses.html

Upon returning back to the United States, I earned my BA in Early Childhood and Masters in Education. I served as the director of a therapeutic day treatment program for young children experiencing trauma for over twenty years. Along the way, I became an infant massage therapist and a Brain Gym instructor. My greatest joy has been watching and being part of my seven grandchildren's life

It brings me so much joy and excitement to return to my first love of connecting with toddlers and their families in our beautiful environment.

Lindsay Braathen - Admin

With the birth of my first son in 2012 I started down the never ending rabbit hole of educational pedagogies, multiple intelligences and parenting gurus. It has been my joy to watch an infant grow, change, and transform before my very eyes. Currently, I spent my time googling how to instill emotional intelligence, executive functioning skills and manners while barely keeping up with my four kids!

With my BS in Business Administration and my Masters in Public Administration & Fundraising, I am the admin and tech support to the Playspace. I am proud of the Playspace and my mom because it is a cozy place for littles and parents to use rain or shine and there is always coffee or tea available!