Step By Step
Early Learning and
Childcare Center
Center Management
Seema Bahl
About Me
I am the Executive Director of Step by Step and CEO of South Lake Tahoe childcare Center. My journey in the educational field began in 2003 with a home daycare. With my passion ignited, I started Mantra Montessori in Sunnyvale in 2014 in order to serve our beautiful community and its families. Still seeing a need for more childcare in the surrounding areas, I, along with my husband, bought You & Me Children's center in Petaluma in 2019. In addition, we acquired Step by Step Early Learning and Childcare Center in South Lake Tahoe in 2023 and have been developing and improving its high-quality program ever since.
Education/Experience
I have attained teaching ECE units, and with my 20+ years of childcare managing experience, I continuously apply those skills in my everyday work.
Furthermore, I have successfully raised two daughters of my own. The older one is currently in medical school working to become a doctor, while the other attends university as a business major.
Teaching Philosophy
My favorite thing about working with children is experiencing their hope, curiosity, excitement, potential, and sense of accomplishment. I believe teaching and learning go hand in hand for all involved. It is an honor to be a part of so many children’s lives.
How I Spend My Time
Outside of work, I love to spend quality time with my family. I also enjoy cooking food for my loved ones, listening to music, traveling, and taking care of my collection of plants.
Rahul Bahl
About Me
I am the President of South Lake Tahoe Childcare Center dba Step by Step Early Learning and Childcare Center. I handle the corporate, legal and contractual issues with running our childcare center. I have also cared for, mentored and parented 2 kids of my own. I provide a calm reassuring interaction for children. I strive to be a positive male role model for children in our center.
Education
I have BA degree and am a proud Army Veteran.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that children’s behavior reflects things they experience in their lives. Sometimes they just need a little bit more love, attention and patience. My favorite thing about working with children and watching them learn is the astonishment and jubilation in their eyes when they finally understand something, and they feel proud and accomplished!
How I Spend My Time
I enjoy time with my family and traveling. Golf and Tennis are my sporting interests.
Mireya Torres
About Me
Hello, my name is Mireya. I currently work as an Co-Administrator for Early Learning Corporation dba Step by Step. I attend State held meetings that provide legal and regulatory information to child development centers and examine all the Provider Information Notices published by the Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing. Not only do I ensure our business, files, documents and reports are in regulatory compliance; I also administer the Financial Assistance General Child Care and Development subsidy program for qualifying families. I first started my childcare career at Under the Magic Pine Tree in 2013 with Candi and Dainer. I worked mostly with infant aged children during my time there and spent some time in the 1–2-year-olds classroom. I now have 2 kids of my own who have taught me more than I could have ever imagined, and they are the reason I am back in childcare.
Education
I have completed all classes in early childhood education and took classes that helped me to successfully receive my teaching permit. I'm also close to reaching my long-term goal of obtaining a Child Development Site Supervisor Permit from the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Teaching Philosophy
I strongly believe that having a strong connection and good communication with children as well as with parents is key to child’s learning and advancing. It is important to implement and practice good morals and for young children to see adults in their life model that behavior. Children require a safe environment in which they feel comfortable to express themselves and learn. There is always an opportunity for learning in all aspects of life. Children have opportunities to learn daily at home, in the car, and at the grocery store as much as they do at school. It is our duty as parents and teachers to help facilitate that learning process. Allowing children to make mistakes as they learn and explore helps build their confidence and ignites curiosity. Children who are given the freedom to explore are filled with all types of knowledge that can lead to a bright and successful future. The most enjoyment I get out of teaching such young age groups is that they are just beginning to learn, and their possibilities are endless. They always make me smile and I see them do the cutest things as I watch them learn. I get to experience development milestones with the children and families, and I find that so fulfilling.
How I Spend My Time
I enjoy going on walks, listening to music, and in the summertime, I love being at the lake getting some sun with my kids.