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

We got the opportunity to chat with The Bilingual Playhouse, which provides online play-based Spanish language learning for children.

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 studied Elementary Education and Spanish so I’ve always had a passion for teaching! I moved to Spain after college and I was living and working there for 5 years. I worked teaching English in a play-based setting and helped the company grow. I moved home at the beginning of the pandemic and I knew I had to share my passion for Spanish with students here in The United States. I decided to start this company to share Spanish in a fun way! 

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

Just this week, I had a student demonstrate the confidence to participate in a “Days of the Week” game she always has been shy about. This particular student turned to me and said Senorita Chantelle, I think I can guess the missing card… Of course, I was SO excited and cheered her on, and she got the missing card correct! 

What’s the most rewarding thing about teaching children?

The most rewarding part of teaching has to be seeing students get excited about Spanish! I love seeing them learn something new each time I see them.

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

While teaching about professions, we had an activity where the students had to draw what they wanted to be when they grew up. One of my students drew a picture of me and said they wanted to be just like me when they grew up. Just about melted my heart!

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

I have many stories for this as many students will translate words directly into Spanish or make their own Spanglish version of words!

Why is after school enrichment so important for children?

After school enrichment gives students a chance to pursue topics of their own interest. It’s also a great way to have fun while learning something new!

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

‍Children are ALWAYS discovering! Whether it be through play, a new book, meeting a new friend, etc. they are constantly discovering the world around them. 

What is your favorite Sawyer feature?

That’s a tough question… There are so many! My favorite Sawyer feature would have to be different payment options (full semester, monthly, drop-in). I love giving my families the flexibility to pay how they can.

What's one trick you learned from another educator that you still practice?

The 5 + 3 second rule when waiting for a response. Wait 5 seconds for the student to respond to your question and then count an additional 3 in your head before jumping in to help them. Sometimes as an educator we try to fill in that awkward silence while waiting for a response but most of the time you are the only one noticing the silence. Our students just need a couple extra seconds before they have their response ready as they are learning new information!

Have you discovered new customers on the Sawyer marketplace?

Yes, quite a few in fact!

How do you balance your time between running your business (from an operational perspective) and teaching/connecting with parents and students?

This seems to be the most challenging! Sawyer definitely helps me to keep payments on track and registering easy for parents. I also have a couple amazing teachers that work with me to teach our students!

How has Sawyer helped your business? 

Sawyer has helped me keep track of revenue, returning customers, and tons of data! It helps me stay organized and I love that Sawyer automatically sends the Zoom link to online families each time before the class begins.