Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Early Childhood Education in Durham, NC
Founded in 1983 by three visionary women, KIN Early Childhood Program has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in Durham, North Carolina. Our program uniquely combines high-quality childcare with developmentally appropriate education for children aged 12 weeks to six years. With two historic facilities in West Durham, we maintain low teacher-to-child ratios across specialized classrooms tailored to different age groups. Our child-centered curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through purposeful play, sensory experiences, and exploration of natural sciences and creative arts. Accredited by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Resources, we serve both typically developing children and those with special needs.Our multi-aged classrooms foster social-emotional growth through stable relationships and cooperative problem-solving. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we prioritize community involvement through our Parent Job Program and annual fundraising initiatives. Our experienced educators, many with decades of experience, create nurturing environments where children thrive. We maintain year-round operation with flexible scheduling options to support working families. Our commitment to professional development ensures our staff remains at the forefront of early childhood education theory and practice.
Services
Infant Care
Toddler Programs
Preschool Education
Special Needs Support
Parent Involvement Programs
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We maintain 2:4 teacher-to-child ratios in infant programs
- Our curriculum follows The Exploration of Young Children Banks Street Edition
- Experienced educators with decades of early childhood expertise
- Historic facilities designed for child-centered learning
- Active parent community with required quarterly participation
Associations and certifications
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Resources
What people say
Low teacher-to-child ratios
Child-centered curriculum
Experienced professionals
Active parent community
Kid-friendly facilities
Services
Infant Care
Our Moon Class provides specialized care for infants with a 2:4 teacher-to-child ratio. Certified educators create sensory-rich environments for developmental milestones. Daily routines include tummy time, sensory play, and early language stimulation through personalized interactions.
Toddler Programs
Bird and Water Classes cater to toddlers with 2:6 and 2:7 ratios. Curriculum focuses on social-emotional development through structured play and themed exploration. Activities include art projects, nature walks, and motor skill development in safe, stimulating environments.
Preschool Education
Forest Class serves ages 3-5 with 2:11 ratio. Academically focused curriculum integrates science, math, and literacy through hands-on projects. Multi-age classrooms promote peer mentoring while maintaining developmentally appropriate practices aligned with current research.
Special Needs Support
We provide individualized support for children with special needs through trained staff and adapted environments. Our inclusive approach ensures all children participate in activities with appropriate accommodations. Teachers collaborate with families and specialists to create tailored development plans.
Parent Involvement Programs
Active Parent Job Program requires quarterly participation in facility maintenance, event planning, or administrative support. This fosters community connection while reducing operational costs. Parents gain insight into daily operations and child development practices.
People
Emily Smith
Director
Childcare professional with 15+ years experience, holding a Bachelors in Human Development. Leads KIN's educational programming since 2015, focusing on curriculum development and staff mentorship.
Jenn June
Director
Early childhood educator since 2004, directing KIN Too since 2010. Specializes in toddler development and parent engagement strategies while maintaining program quality standards.
Lisa
Teacher
25-year veteran educator with expertise in infant care. Provides nurturing environment for youngest learners while maintaining strict safety and developmental standards in daily programming.
Amber
Teacher
Creative educator in Moon Class since 2020, specializing in sensory play and infant stimulation. Develops innovative DIY learning materials that engage young minds through tactile experiences.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We care for children from 12 weeks through six years across five specialized classrooms.
What are your operating hours?
We're open year-round Monday-Friday 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM.
Is your staff trained in early childhood education?
All teachers have extensive experience and training in child development theories and practices.
Do you accommodate children with special needs?
Yes, we provide inclusive programming with individualized support plans for children with special needs.
How do parents participate in the program?
Our Parent Job Program requires three hours quarterly participation in facility or administrative support roles.
