About Us
About P.B.S. & Play
Positive Behavior Support (P.B.S.) & Play is a FREE three-month early childhood development curriculum for childcare providers and caregivers in King County. Designed for those who work with children ages 5 and under, P.B.S. & Play focuses on culturally tailored training for providers who identify as African-American, Somali, or Latinx or serve these communities.
By addressing critical topics such as developmental milestones, emotional intelligence, and play theories, the program empowers providers to nurture and support children’s growth while honoring cultural traditions.
Meet our Team
Gwendolyn McLemore, LSWAIC
Owner of Gwen’s Guidance/ African American Cultural Consultant
With over 10 years of experience in a variety of mental health settings and populations, Gwen has built a dynamic career centered around empowering individuals and communities. Gwen focuses on providing strategic tools and teaching trauma processing skills to promote life-changing growth and skill development via behavioral health modifications such as Positive Behavior Support. Gwen is versed in multiple evidence-based techniques utilizes various spiritual and psychological theories to help clients develop healthier habits and behaviors. Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching or group workshops, Gwen’s goal is to facilitate lasting positive change for the people around her.
Originally from the East Coast, Gwen enjoys traveling, being a plant mom, watching the Eagles win during football season, and cooking for friends.
Katie Gibson, MSW
IECMH Consultant
Katie Gibson has been working in social services dating back to when she did community service projects as a child. She has a passion for service work and the skill set to match. Katie’s professional career has mainly concentrated on mental health and social justice work, however, in 2017 she began her focus on perinatal mental health and birth justice. In grad school Katie extended her studies to Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH).
Katie enjoys swimming, reading, and rollerskating in her free time and is always planning her next trip to visit the island of Maui. She also enjoys the honor of being a mother to her 11-year-old son who shares her passionate nature, compassion for others, and enthusiasm for learning.
Maricel Villanueva
Latinx Cultural Consultant
Maricel or “Mari” is a passionate LatinX cultural consultant committed to making a positive impact in her community. With a focus on cultural awareness and inclusivity, she leverages her deep understanding of LatinX traditions and values to support and uplift those around her. Through her community service work and “Person Centered Planning” skills, Mari fosters connections and creates spaces where everyone feels welcome and empowered. With her genuine community outreach tactics, mastery of the Spanish language, and strong dedication to professional development her hands-on involvement and genuine care for her community shine through in everything she does.
Mari enjoys being a mom, spending time with family, and her 4 future soccer stars. Mari enjoys everything soccer related, being a fitness buff, and loves coffee.
Sundus Ali, MA
Somali Cultural Consultant
Sundus Ali holds a Master of Arts in International Care and Community Development and has nearly two decades of experience in the developmental disabilities field, including work with the State of Washington’s Developmental Disability Administration and a local county in Washington. As a trained behavior analyst and bilingual professional fluent in Somali, she brings a specialized understanding and unique perspective to her work. Mrs. Ali is dedicated to destigmatizing disabilities, promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion, and ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to necessary services and support. As an independent consultant, she offers training, technical assistance, and facilitation to various stakeholders, employing a culturally responsive approach to create more inclusive and supportive environments for individuals and families.
Tatiana Calasan-Snead
African-American Cultural Consultant
Tatiana Snead is an African-American cultural consultant specializing at the intersections of social work, non-profit management, and child advocacy. With a focus on early childhood education, Tatiana is deeply committed to empowering marginalized communities and creating opportunities for underserved populations. As a passionate advocate, she leverages her expertise to support organizations and initiatives that promote equity, wellness, and meaningful change. Beyond her professional work, Tatiana is a proud mother of 2 wonderful children. She finds joy in fitness, wellness, and nurturing her love for plants, embodying a holistic approach to life and work.
Paidamoyo "Pai" Jokonya
West African Diasporic Cultural Consultant
As a 22-year-old aspiring public health professional pursuing her Master’s degree Pai is eager to contribute her skills and gain professional experience. Pai contributes skills regarding organization, research, management, community outreach and enthusiasm. Born in Zimbabwe, Africa, she deeply values community outreach and has dreams of establishing her own non-profit organization to support her home country.
She is a vibrant individual with a love for the color pink, and is committed to seeking out environments that foster inspiration and learning especially from strong women of color. Pai is excited to learn from this team and contribute to Gwen’s Guidance’s impactful work.
Comprehensive Training Modules
Monthly, two-hour sessions over three months, offering knowledge and practical tools for childcare success..
Culturally Aligned Support
Each participant is paired with a cultural consultant to ensure personalized and relevant training experiences.
Empowering Education
Gain access to clinical childhood development knowledge that was historically inaccessible to underserved communities.
Investing in your child's future
Get Started Today!
Take the first step toward empowering your childcare practice. Enroll in P.B.S. & Play today to access free resources, expert guidance, and culturally aligned training.