Kirkwood United Methodist Preschool opened in April, 1962 on a trial basis with 30 children enrolled and a staff of two teachers. The trial was a success and in the fall of 1962, KUM Preschool opened with an enrollment of 45 children and a staff of three teachers.

KUM Preschool was originally designed as a Co-Op Preschool. A Co-Op preschool, or cooperative preschool, is part of a non-profit organization where parents and teachers are active participants in their children's education. Parents work with the classroom teachers and participate in the classroom on a rotating basis. This collaborative approach promotes a community spirit and encourages positive bonds between families and staff. Parents' participation can also help keep the cost of running the school down, which can be beneficial for many families.

Over the years, KUM Preschool has offered class options that focus on a developmentally appropriate curriculum and child-directed play for children ages two and a half to six years old. There are currently over 25 staff members and 150 children. This loving and skilled staff are dedicated to helping children achieve personal, social and academic success while developing a love of learning in the process.

Kirkwood United Methodist Children’s Day Out began in the early 1970’s as a ministry of KUMC. Its purpose is to serve the Church and community by providing a loving and caring Christian atmosphere for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-kindergarten while they are away from home. They met one day a week in two classrooms (ages 6 weeks through 2 years old and 3 years old through five years old) and could take twenty-six children at any given time. In the mid-1980’s the program expanded to five days a week and after the Make Room campaign was able to expand to four classrooms taking up to forty children at any given time. CDO takes children not just from the Kirkwood community, but from all areas of St. Louis City and County. The program is unique in that they not only enroll children, but allow reservations and same day drop-ins.

As we reflect on our rich history, we are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built at Kirkwood United Methodist Preschool and Children's Day Out. From our humble beginnings to our current thriving programs, our commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of community has remained steadfast. We are excited about the changes happening now and look forward to continuing to grow and serve our families with the same dedication and love that has defined us for decades.