Laura studies play, happiness, communication and mindfulness. In March 2020, during the pandemic quarantine, Laura and her two sons created the We Write the Story Challenge to bring more play, connection and mindfulness to families and communities (creating over 70 games and being featured on Fox). Her book Play Together: Games & Activities for the Whole Family to Boost Creativity, Connection & Mindfulness, is the culmination of those games and her research in play, parenting and mindfulness.

Laura has been featured on the Today Show, CBS, Fox, Shape, Parents, The Tennis Channel and more. She is the founder of Author Moms, a fun community that connects, supports and inspires fellow writing moms. (You can follow along on Instagram or Facebook @authormoms.)

Laura is a two-time US National Pro Beach Tennis Champion and was on the first American team to compete in the Beach Tennis World Championships where she finished top 16. In addition to beach tennis, she has also coached junior tennis for both elite and recreational players. It was there that she first discovered the power of play in helping children learn. Ever since, she has been hooked on creating games that disguise learning as play!

Laura is a self-described research nerd, earning her master’s degree in international communication from Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. Prior to that, she earned her degree in communication and creative writing while varsity playing tennis for the Ohio State University.

Laura is blessed to have two sweet and playful boys, to have married her summer sweetheart and to live in San Diego, CA near her extended family, and the beach! She is currently at work on her next book and can’t wait to share it with you.