Our Team

  • Katie Swanson, Founder of Hygge Kinder House

    Katie Swanson | Founder

    When I was pregnant with my third son, I toured daycare centers that left me feeling desperate for clean, caring options. Years later, I still remember that feeling, and it’s what inspired Hygge Kinder House.

    As a longtime Boise resident and parent, I’m passionate about creating the kind of support and community I once wished for. Professionally, I’ve helped businesses grow in software and services, led teams across operations and HR, and founded two successful business ventures. Now, I’m combining my experience and heart to build something truly meaningful for Boise families and caregivers.

  • Taylor Payne, Founder of Hygge Kinder House

    Taylor Payne | Founder

    As a mom of two, my journey in education has always been deeply personal. I began my career as a middle school history and English teacher, later discovering a true calling in early childhood education.

    Over the past four years, I’ve moved into educational leadership, where I’ve had the privilege of supporting teachers and families through roles in administration and operations. I’ve developed expertise in hiring and mentoring educators, guiding curriculum development, managing enrollment and budgeting, and building strong, connected school communities.

    My goal is always to create warm, enriching spaces where children feel safe and inspired, and where educators feel empowered and supported in their work.

  • Boise Childcare Director

    Sage Romano | School Director

    Sage was born and raised in Massachusetts, where she developed a deep appreciation for both education and the outdoors. She later moved to Idaho to pursue higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Education, Curriculum and Instruction with a cognate in Early Childhood.

    For the past seven years, Sage has worked in the field of early childhood education in both teaching and leadership capacities. She is dedicated to play-based learning and is committed to creating safe, supportive environments where children can grow, thrive, and develop a strong sense of self. Sage views education as a reflection of children’s interests and places great value on the sense of belonging that comes from time spent outdoors and engaging with the community.

    Outside of her professional work, Sage enjoys baking, crafting, and spending time in nature.

  • A young woman with long brown hair, smiling, standing in front of a decorated Christmas tree with gold and red ornaments and gold star decorations.

    Shannon Hendrickson | Lead Educator

    I was born and raised in Georgia, where I attended school and earned my B.S. in Early Childhood Education. Studying Education felt like an easy choice and I have absolutely enjoyed following young learners' curiosity and helping empower them with confidence to explore their world. After graduating, I moved to Bangkok, Thailand, where I taught at an international kindergarten and spent time traveling throughout Southeast Asia. I eventually made my way to Boise, Idaho, where I fell in love with the strong sense of community and easy access to the outdoors. Outside the classroom, I enjoy hiking, skiing, and playing ultimate frisbee.

  • Stephanie Joubaer | Lead Educator

    I moved from Germany to St. Louis in 2023 to pursue a career in early childhood education as well as finishing my bachelor’s degree, and proceeded to move to Boise near the end of 2025. I enjoy reading and writing, and am currently working on a fantasy novel that I hope to publish one day. In my free time, I enjoy exploring all kinds of food and music, treating myself to iced chai lattes, wandering through antique stores, and going on occasional hikes to explore nature.

  • Smiling woman with brown hair and earrings outdoors with greenery and brick wall in background.

    Tyler Wilson | Substitute Educator

    I am a passionate educator who is a big sister of five who takes pride in helping the younger generation become their best selves! Currently working toward completing my masters degree to become a Speech Language Pathologist. I am originally from a small beach town in El Segundo, California and am residing with my family here in Idaho. I also love singing, reading & doing all different kinds of crafts!

  • Charlotte Strayer | Assistant Educator

    I have been working in Early Childhood the majority of my professional life, beginning as a Nanny in 2020. During highschool, I followed the Early Childhood Education Career and Technical Education pathway, and completed the path with 2 semesters of internships. Since then, I have worked for a few childcare centers, and I have always found a lot of joy in it. I think the early years are the most beautiful and inspiring years, and I am honored to work with your child during their beginning years. I deeply value holding mutual respect with children, beginning in infancy. Allowing children the autonomy to say “No” and feel their feelings is incredibly important to their development into kind and compassionate individuals. 

  • Nea Michas | Hygge Kinder House and Ströva Summer Camp Educator

    I am a current student at Boise State studying blended education that focuses on early special and elementary education. I am dedicated early childhood education teacher that values kindness and believes that every child is special and deserves kindness and deserves to be seen, heard and appreciated for exactly who they are. I want to take these values and have them seen in my classroom. I am so excited to meet students and their families.

  • Maleah Wei | Ströva Summer Camp Educator

    I just finished my freshman year at UC Berkeley studying Environmental Science. I have experience working with kids as a swim instructor, and in high school, I served as a mentor at White Pine Elementary. I’ve also led environmental education programs for elementary students. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, swimming, and reading, and I am excited to create a fun outdoor learning environment for kids this summer!

  • Avery Johnson | Ströva Summer Camp Educator

    My name is Avery Johnson! I am currently attending university in Europe, but I grew up in Boise and I’m so excited to be home for the summer. I have spent lots of time working with kids - as a nanny, teacher, and more - and love it! I can’t wait to spend the summer making memories and exploring Boise at Ströva! 

  • Anna Oliver

    My name is Anna Oliver and I am from right here in Boise and have been working in education and childcare for almost 7 years now. I began in college working in a preschool and continued to work as a teacher through graduate school and after. I love the outdoors, reading, music, my dog, and spending time with family and friends. I can't wait to have a great Summer!