MISSION STATEMENT
Kids of Chatham Organization, Inc. is a not-for-profit center dedicated to providing quality child care to families in East Hampton, CT and the surrounding communities.
A NOT-FOR-PROFIT CHILD CARE ORGANIZATION
KOCO was established on March 15, 1988 as a tax-exempt, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation. An annually elected Board of Directors consists of parent volunteers who attend quarterly meetings and participate in company policy decision-making.
Originally housed in a smaller facility near the post office, KOCO spent 21 years at its location on East High Street. A brand new facility (pictured above) was built for KOCO and opened on July 22, 2019. Our current student enrollment is approximately 150 children aged 8 weeks to 12 years.
PHILOSOPHY
KOCO is a nurturing child care center that values all children and excels in helping each child realize their full potential. At KOCO, we believe that children learn best through active play and exploration. Our curriculum is designed to facilitate this hands-on learning through a combination of scheduled daily activities.
OPERATIONS
Day-to-day operations are managed by
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Executive Director Janet Santos
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Assistant Director Brian Barber
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Opening Supervisor Laurie Webster
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Closing Supervisor Thomas Santos
KOCO employs about 40 staff (20 full-time and 20 part-time). Over 70% of KOCO’s full-time staff have worked here for over 7 years. Five staff members have worked here 10 years or longer!
PROGRAMS
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KOCO has five Under 3 classrooms, beginning with infants 8 wks old through toddlers up to 3 years old.
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Our Preschool programs support kindergarten readiness skills in students ages 3-5.
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We offer before and after school care in our three Schoolage classrooms.
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KOCO is also proud to offer care for students during most school holidays, vacations, delays, early dismissals and snow days.
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Our popular summer camp for older students features visitors, field trips, club activities, crafts, games and more.
“My kids have learned so much at KOCO. In addition to basics such as following directions, showing respect for others, taking turns, cooperation, and courtesy, the interesting, educational, and fun themes, topics, and activities have helped expose them to new ideas and experiences.” KOCO Parent
"Some say it takes a village to raise a child. As working parents of three boys, it is with great comfort that we consider KOCO as our village. The reassurance that comes with knowing our children are in the care of teachers that love them like their own is invaluable. We sincerely thank the KOCO team for helping us raise happy, well-adjusted, socialized children." Trisha Farrell, KOCO Parent
