At Sawyer we have the privilege of working with hundreds of inspiring educators around the country. Whether they teach virtual classes or in-person activities, the curricula always foster enriching atmospheres for children of all ages to discover their love of learning. We got the opportunity to chat with Pixie Pods, a Black, female owned mobile enrichment studio that provides dance, music, and acrobatic education for the children (ages: 0-13) of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens!

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

I started dancing  when I was 7 and continued through all my schooling and college. I was fortunate enough to get a musical theater/commercial dance agent and was living my dream as a professional dancer for about 7 years until the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. I didn't mean to start a business! I was nannying and began teaching the child dance. I developed a passion for early childhood dance education! A year later, I added more instructors to help me teach and Pixie Pods has been growing rapidly since then! A dream come true.

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

For about 4 weeks, I was teaching private creative dance classes to a student who was non-verbal and had developmental delays. She loved class and followed directions extremely well. Her family was so amazed at how engaged and happy she was in our 45-min weekly session. I felt so fortunate to be able to introduce her to the world of dance. Very inspiring!

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?  

The most rewarding thing about teaching young kids is to know that our classes/curriculums are directly making a difference in their brain development. They think they are just playing/having fun!

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

When I first started my business, a mom booked me to teach a rooftop ballet class at her daughter’s 4th birthday party. Her daughter had been rewatching a production of “The Nutcracker” all throughout quarantine, but never taken a class. Her daughter LOVED it! So much so she asked me to teach a dance class at her 5th and 6th birthday parties too. She also ends the party saying, “Miss Porsha, I love dancing with you!” I almost tear up every time! I love teaching little ones and there are so many precious moments that surprise me and push me to  continue making magic even when it gets hard!

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

After I introduced myself to a pod of 6 three years old, one of them raised their hand and said, “We have a Porsche in the garage!” I explained that I was actually named after the car.

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

They are important because children can play, create, and explore new ways to express themselves! That is very essential for young growing minds.

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

New York City is the perfect place to be to discover a passion. There is free art everywhere, Broadway shows, plays, concerts, etc.