Lauren Quient is an award-winning educator, maker, and designer of inclusive learning experiences who believes that all children deserve spaces where they can regulate, create, and belong. With over a decade of experience in education as a classroom teacher, special educator, school administrator, project-based learning specialist, and college lecturer, Lauren creates hands-on, interest-driven experiences that support confidence, creativity, connection, and emotional well-being for both neurotypical and neurodiverse learners.

Lauren holds two Master’s degrees, including a Master’s in Special Education from California State University, Northridge, and a Master’s in Education with a STEAM emphasis from the University of San Diego. She was recognized as Teacher of the Year at Westmark School, selected as a Google for Education Certified Innovator, and accepted into the Wexner Heritage Fellowship, where she deepened her commitment to leadership, community, and meaningful educational design.

MakeBelong Studio was inspired by Lauren’s experiences as both an educator and a parent navigating the realities of neurodiversity, sensory differences, emotional regulation, and belonging within family and community spaces. Through workshops, creative labs, movement-based experiences, and collaborative design activities, she aims to create environments where children and caregivers feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow together.

At the heart of Lauren’s work is a simple belief: when experiences are designed intentionally and inclusively, all people gain more opportunities to connect, express themselves authentically, and thrive.