Welcome! I’m Nicole Geller, an experienced educational consultant, dedicated to providing top-notch educational support services in the classroom, at home, and in play settings. My work is anchored by a strengths-based approach, which provides kids with the security they need to feel joy in their own uniqueness—and build the confidence to take risks and learn new things. Using focused expertise built from over two decades of experience, I take the time to observe each kid’s interests, preferences, aversions, and comforts. Through respect and care, I develop a trusting relationship with each child, implementing emotionally responsive and individualized support. I’m so glad that you’ve found me, and I can’t wait to connect further!

Services

In-School Support

I provide SEIT services in schools. A SEIT is a “Special Education Itinerant Teacher” who provides 1:1 support for preschool-aged kids in school settings. Typically, a SEIT is hired by the child’s family and also coordinates directly with school staff. I partner with families and schools to build alignment and develop goals for each child, ensuring ongoing communication, which is crucial for a successful partnership. As a SEIT, I play a vital role in supporting children during learning and play, fostering their creativity and emerging skills for collaboration and daily activities. By observing and engaging with kids during the school day (most importantly during playtime), I support their curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and assist in building positive social interactions with their peers.

I offer particular support for students who may be struggling with social interactions or experiencing difficulty following classroom norms and expectations. Typically, I use a “push-in” model, which means that I will join the student in their classroom. In certain situations, or for short periods of time, we may also explore a “pull-out” model, where a student works with me individually, away from their classroom and peers, with the goal of helping them successfully integrate back to the classroom. I refer to this as “The SEIT Dance”—knowing when to step in and when to step out. Whatever method, my goal is always to center and support the student in joyful learning, to build a sense of success in their classroom.

More about me: I hold a Masters Degree in Education (MSEd), with a specialization in early childhood special education, from Bank Street College of Education. I also earned a School-Building Leadership Certification (SBL) from Bank Street, and served there myself as a supervisor, administrator, and SEIT for nearly twenty years. Prior to my time at Bank Street, I received a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology General Studies from NYU’s Gallatin School. I am deeply inspired by the work of Dr. Ross Greene’s “collaborative and proactive solution” approach to working with kids, and I have completed a certification-level training in this method. I also enjoy working as an actor, and my experience with improvising, story-telling, and role-playing informs my educational work as well.

More info

Play Support

I also provide support for kids to develop skills that explore their social interests and connections. Helping children build social skills that reflect their individual personalities and goals is essential for their overall development and future success. These skills enable kids to communicate effectively, form strong relationships, hold boundaries, and navigate conflict safely. This social support can be provided in any setting—at home with siblings, at a play date with friends, on a sports team, etc. Though modeling, trust-building, and practice, I help kids build skills in sharing, listening, and cooperating with others. I also lead more structured groups to foster these same skills through PlayGroup NYC. As the primary Lead Teacher at PlayGroup’s Upper West Side Location, I support kids in developing a structured community of exploration and fun. Each PlayGroup session begins with a group meeting, followed by child-led activities with many opportunities for peer engagement without pressure, and then a closing good-bye. The balance of predictable structure and opt-in activities truly sets PlayGroup apart, and I’m delighted to have recently joined founders Becky Thomas and Krista Wilbur—whom I used to supervise at Bank Street!

Parent Support

I offer support for parents and caregivers who are looking for assistance advocating for their children at school, strategizing supports in-school or at home, exploring options for educational placement, and more. I am understanding, empathetic, and believe deeply in open communication. I strive to provide resources, offer guidance, and help parents/caregivers feel less alone navigating the challenges related to academic settings and childhood social development. Whether through regular check-ins, parent-teacher conferences, or tailored recommendations, I am committed to empowering your family to create a support system that uplifts your student’s potential.

School Advisement

I also offer strategic advisement services for school staff. Whether hired by families or directly by schools, I can work with classroom teachers, administrators, related service providers, and more to increase alignment of student supports and address challenges in constructive and supportive ways.

Additional Fun Facts

I love working with ADHD kids especially because I was an ADHD kid too! My ADHD still informs my life in important ways, and I have learned to celebrate my strengths as a thoughtful, curious, and creative person. I love helping ADHD kids discover their strengths.
When I was in elementary school, I had a sign on my desk that read, “Are you daydreaming?” (Yes, I was!) It was not a helpful support! Now, I love helping kids, families, and teachers craft effective supports /tools for kids who struggle with traditional school environments.
I recently played the lead in an Off-Broadway play! I love seeing Broadway musicals and plays. I love using improvisation techniques and other theater tools with my students, and I even write my own plays!
My first concert was Diana Ross in Central Park—talk about iconic!
I love trying new restaurants, and I often use restaurant settings for imaginative play with my students.
My favorite games are Scattegories, Loaded Questions and Kids on Stage, and I love a good dance party!

"Nicole believes that a child should feel that they are enjoyed and that joy should be within the play. She appreciates the importance of the child growing more confident and works to make sure that this is the child's experience, as they work on harder learning challenges."

- M, School Director

“In working with my son, Nicole showed a great breadth and depth of experience and knowledge. And she was kind... She was available, symphathetic, helpful-really, she was remarkable."

- R, parent

"Meeting Ms. Nicole!"

—Pre-K student, when asked “What was the highlight of your school year?”

Contact us

Have a question or need assistance? Fill out the form below to get in touch with Nicole Geller Educational Consultant.

About us

Nicole Geller Educational Consultant is a leading educational consulting firm based in New York CIty. As Educators, we are dedicated in supporting children to to feel more successful in their classroom. With personalized support, and guidance to students at every stage of their educational journey.

Learn More