KD1 Care

Our Teachers

Hi, I’m Nicole! I’m the heart behind KD1Care, a licensed, family-run program built on love, structure, and exceptional early childhood education. I bring over 25 years of parenting experience, 7 years of hands-on childcare experience, and a strong academic background to the little ones I serve.

I hold an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development, along with two Career Studies Certificates (Early Childhood Development I & II). My approach blends research-based practices with practical, nurturing care — giving children the comfort of home with the learning you’d expect from a high-quality preschool.

As a military family, structure, reliability, and community are part of who we are. Families quickly feel the difference — our program is calm, consistent, and designed with real-life support for parents at its core.

Before launching KD1Care, I spent years in corporate leadership and communication, refining skills that now strengthen this program every single day. From organization and planning to professional-level parent communication, I run KD1Care with the precision of a business and the warmth of a family home.

Most importantly, I genuinely love what I do. Each child is welcomed like family, celebrated for who they are, and supported at their own pace. My goal is to partner with you, keep you informed, and ensure your child feels safe, encouraged, and excited to come through the door each morning.

If you’re looking for a small, nurturing, structured program where your child is truly known — I’d love to meet your family.

Testimonials

“Nicole and Jason are phenomenal caretakers! Nicole thinks of everything and has amazing intuition when it comes to caring for our son. Outside time, play time, and meal time has surpassed our expectations compared to our other son’s daycare experience, which was positive as well. From day one our son took a nap with ease, which for 6 months only I could do. Truly a top notch experience and overall exceptional value.” - Lauren

“My son loves going to Mrs. Nicole! She is so good with him and keeps him engaged. I definitely recommend her if you need someone to watch your little.” - B.M

“Anyone looking for a great childcare provider in the Chester/Chesterfield area, reach out to Nicole Marshall. She took care of my child from when my maternity leave was over until I was able to work from home (roughly 2 years). My baby loved her time with Nicole. She fed her real meals, took her on real adventures, and kept me involved in their day by sending me pictures and texts of my baby and all of their fun. Nicole is a nurturing child care provider and I trust her immensely.” - A.B

“Due to unfortunate circumstances, I quickly had to find a new daycare for my son. I was very fortunate to be able to find KD1 Care! My son has been with Nicole since around the middle of September 2022. Having to find a new daycare was a blessing in disguise because my son has blossomed since being with Nicole. Nicole caring for my son has exceeded my expectations. My son gets outside time (weather permitting), lots of stimulating play time, and 2 meals and a snack which I think he eats better than I do! Nicole is excellent at communication and is constantly sending videos and photos of my son to keep me up to date of what he is doing throughout the day! I highly recommend KD1 Care, you won’t be disappointed!” -G.N.

“I absolutely love KD1 care! Nicole is amazing with my son. He has learned his his colors and he has been fully potty trained. I have no worries when I drop him off. I recommend KD1 care to anyone looking for an affordable and caring child care KD1 care is the place!” - M.B

“Nicole is amazing. She does activities with my daughter and is being taught daily. I love it 🥰 I drive out of my way to take her here because I know she’s going to treat my baby just like hers!” - T.M

“My child has been seeing Nicole since I went back to work at 8weeks old. As a first time mom with a lot of anxiety Nicole eliminates every bit of that! She is constantly sending photos and updates about day to day. Even though my child is too small to participate she always has activities for older kids that are themed which makes me so excited for when my child grows. Every time i ask my daughter if she is ready to go to Miss Nicoles she lights up with all the excitement and she is always so excited to see Nicole! If you are looking for a place that has great rates, is not only communicative but appreciates a lot of communication please reach out to Nicole! She will treat your kid like her own❤️” -T.L

Philosophy

At KD1Care, children learn best through play, curiosity, and meaningful connection. Our program blends a warm, home-like environment with the structure of a high-quality early learning program. We employ a play-based, mixed-age approach, enabling children to explore at their own pace, develop independence, and learn naturally from one another.

Our daily rhythm includes sensory exploration, outdoor play, early literacy, music, movement, and hands-on activities aligned with early childhood development principles. We keep screen time to a minimum and focus on real-life experiences that help children grow socially, emotionally, and academically.

We value strong routines, gentle guidance, and responsive care. Every child is treated with respect and nurtured as an individual, and every family is welcomed as a partner. Our goal is simple: to create a safe, joyful, and developmentally rich environment where children feel loved, confident, and excited to learn each day.

Location

KD1Care is located in a quiet, family-friendly Chester neighborhood close to parks, schools, and safe walking areas. Families love our easy access to I-95 and I-295, making drop-off and pick-up simple and convenient.

About our program

KD1Care is a warm, family-centered program that blends the comfort of home with the structure of a high-quality early learning environment. Our small group size allows every child to be truly seen, supported, and celebrated. Families choose us for our calm atmosphere, strong communication, and the personal attention that isn’t possible in larger centers.

We offer a rich variety of experiences throughout the year — themed learning weeks, hands-on sensory activities, outdoor exploration, holiday celebrations, photo days, milestone moments, and family-friendly events that help build community. Children grow through play, creativity, and curiosity in a space designed to promote confidence, independence, and joyful learning.

Our mixed-age approach fosters leadership, empathy, and social development, while our predictable routines help children feel secure and well-prepared for each day. Parents receive daily updates, photos, and open communication, so you always know how your little one is growing and thriving.

KD1Care is more than a childcare program — it’s a nurturing, connected community where children and families feel supported from the very beginning. We’d love to welcome you into our family.

Admissions

Schedule a tour, apply online, and complete your registration forms. We make enrollment easy for families.