KIN Early Childhood Program

Growing through play at KIN

KIN provides year-round, full-day care for children 12 weeks to six years in two historic homes conveniently located in West Durham. We pride ourselves in low teacher-to-child ratios and child centered curriculum. We feel that children learn through their purposeful play, hands-on experiences, social interactions, and sensory input. KIN kids get messy — through art, sensory play, experiments, and interacting with nature.

Small, non-profit, high quality childcare in Durham

What is KIN?

The Moon Class is our infant class that consists of 4 babies and 2 teachers. This teacher-to-child ratio is what sets KIN, too apart from other infant programs.
The Bird Class is our 1 year old class with 6 children and 2 teachers. This bright and cheerful classroom is the perfect environment for early stimulation and learning.
The Water Class is a small classroom of 7 young two year old children with two full time teachers where the children begin to explore different themes based on the world around them.
The Garden Class caters to children two years of age. There are seven children and two teachers. In this class they explore different themes about the world around them and prepare for the preschool class. The curriculum is taken from “The Exploration of Young Children” Banks Street Edition.
The Forest Class is a class of 3-5 year old children. It consists of 11 children and two full time teachers. The children in this class learn from many different experiences. The curriculum is based on the “Exploration of Young Children” Banks Street Edition.

Learn more

KIN was founded in 1983 by three women business owners on Ninth Street. KIN is a 501(3)c non profit organization and the official name is Ninth Street KIN Inc. Combining the best elements of early childhood education with quality child care, KIN is designed to meet the needs of both children and their working parents. Our program fosters social, cognitive, physical and emotional development. Through a rich and varied curriculum based on the natural sciences, it stimulates each child’s curiosity about the world.

What sets KIN apart?

Low ratios

We offer low teacher-to-child ratios and small classes, ensuring your child receives the attention they need to grow and develop physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially.
Unique philosophy

We pride ourselves in our child-centered curriculum. We subscribe to the philosophy that if it hasn’t been in a child’s hands, it isn’t in their brains.
Experienced professionals

Our teachers are experienced professionals who truly love the children they care for.
Kid-friendly facilities

KIN and KIN, too are located in two separate, 100 year old houses full of charm in Durham, North Carolina near the Duke University main campus.
Varied schedules

We offer varied schedules to help families balance their commitments to family as well as workplace.
Parent community

KIN parents are an integral and highly visible part of our community. We have an active Parent Job Program; each family is required to participate three hours per quarter.