Sawyer partners with hundreds of educators who are stars in their communities. From inspiring class content to engaging teaching styles, these educators are known for their enriching activities that empower both children and parents alike.

We got the opportunity to chat with Taniya Das, the founder and CEO of KiteSteam, which provides STEAM classes and camps to children in New Jersey. Their programs use a unique curriculum integrating STEAM principles with activities that allow children to collaborate and practice communication skills and critical thinking. We spoke about about inspiring moments in and out of the classroom, the importance of out-of-school education, and how Sawyer helps them grow.

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us! I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business. I’d love to hear a bit more about you and why you started your business.

I am an engineer and tinkerer by profession. I am a mom of two daughters who love to create, build and explore. During the COVID times, these two personalities fused together with my urge to build a business, leading to the first KiteSteam classes in my backyard.

Can you describe an inspiring moment you’ve had as an educator?  

Engineering can be daunting and sometimes the explanations are hard to wrap your brain around. I think I can simplify the complex into something my audience can understand. Seeing that understanding in their eyes is my aha moment.

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?  

Kids' minds are like a blank slate, with no pre-programmed notions. These creative minds can come up with questions and solutions, which are unique and worth pursuing. I love to explore and nurture a child’s ideas in all of our offerings.

What’s one time a child surprised you and made your day?

LEGO Robotics Free builds are always the best surprise I can expect. The ideas are mostly what's in season like football games/fields, beach ball tournaments, summer forests with waterfalls or carnival games. The process of abstract thoughts, sketching ideas to 3D builds, is an absolute wonder to watch!

On a similar note, what’s the funniest thing a child has done in your class?

Little tiny kids acting like adults and having a full blown conversation about the “67” or “Skibidy” trend is funny and confusing to me at the same time.

Why is after school/extracurricular enrichment and camp so important for children?  

After school or extracurricular enrichment gives a space for children to explore their interests, stretch their imagination, and just try out “a new thing”.

How do you think children can discover their passions when they’re not in school or your programs?

Building a creative and explorative mind is the basic building block of our program. Once you develop this skill as a muscle memory, you look for creative solutions for anything life throws at you.