Business Details
49 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare & Early Learning Center in Thornton, CO
Founded in 1977 by Mike and Debi Grillo, A Child's Touch has evolved from a small mobile home park school into a nationally recognized, three-acre early childhood education campus in Thornton, Colorado. Our faith-based approach combines innovative, Christ-centered academics with nature-rich outdoor learning environments, featuring 15 playgrounds, custom-built indoor spaces, and a children's museum. With over 45 years of experience, we prioritize hands-on discovery, outdoor exploration, and character development guided by core values of faith, honesty, respect, fun, and creative curiosity.Our certified teaching staff delivers programs for infants through kindergarten, complemented by extracurricular workshops like Lil Carpenters and Lil Chefs. State-of-the-art security measures, including fingerprint verification and 70+ surveillance cameras, ensure child safety while providing parents peace of mind. We serve multiple generations of families across Adams County and surrounding communities, maintaining a legacy of nurturing lifelong learners who positively impact their communities.
Services
Infant Care
Toddler Programs
Potty Training
Preschool
Pre-Kindergarten
Summer Camp
Nature Education
Extracurricular Workshops
Faith-Based Curriculum
Child Security Systems
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- Established in 1977 with multigenerational family service
- Nationally certified Nature Explore Classrooms for outdoor learning
- 70+ security cameras and biometric access controls
- Certified teachers with college degrees in early childhood education
- Unique Lil Extra programs including carpentry and culinary workshops
Associations and certifications
- Nature Explore Classrooms
What people say
Loving staff
Great programs
Beautiful facilities
Faith-based focus
Creative activities
Services
Nature Explore Classrooms
Our certified Nature Explore Classrooms integrate Rocky Mountain elements into child-friendly landscapes. Children engage with waterfalls, mud pits, treehouses, and musical instruments in 15+ playgrounds. These spaces enhance focus and creativity through hands-on science discoveries and nature interactions.
Lil Extra Workshops
Specialized workshops include Lil Carpenters, Lil Chefs, and Lil Actors. These programs develop practical skills through woodworking projects, cooking classes, and green screen filmmaking. Qualified instructors lead sessions that build confidence and creativity in specific interest areas.
Faith-Based Curriculum
Our Christ-centered academics combine spiritual growth with academic excellence. Daily activities incorporate biblical principles through dramatic play, community service, and character-building exercises. The program emphasizes core values like faith, honesty, and respect in all learning environments.
Child Security Systems
Comprehensive security features include 8-foot privacy fences, biometric access controls, and 70+ surveillance cameras. All areas maintain strict visitor protocols while allowing parents peace of mind. Security systems protect children across classrooms, playgrounds, and common spaces.
Multi-Generational Programs
We serve infants through kindergarten with age-appropriate learning environments. Programs evolve with children's developmental needs, maintaining continuity from infancy through school readiness. Current families include third-generation enrollees, reflecting our long-term community impact and consistent educational quality.
People
Mike Grillo
Co-Founder/Educator
Co-founder with elementary and special education degrees from Northern Arizona University. Taught kindergarten for 18 years and continues mentoring teachers. Actively involved in curriculum development and facility maintenance since 1977.
Debi Grillo
Co-Founder/Administrator
Co-founder with early childhood education associate degree. Managed operations and curriculum development since inception. Focuses on maintaining educational standards while expanding programs to meet evolving family needs across generations.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We provide programs for infants through kindergarten-aged children with specialized curricula for each developmental stage.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we offer nutritious meals and snacks following state guidelines. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with appropriate documentation.
What security measures are in place?
Our facility uses fingerprint verification, 8-foot fences, and 70+ surveillance cameras monitoring all areas including classrooms and playgrounds.
Do you offer summer programs?
Our Summer Camp provides structured activities, outdoor exploration, and special workshops in a safe environment throughout the summer months.
What makes your program unique?
We combine faith-based education with nature-rich learning environments, certified outdoor classrooms, and specialized Lil Extra workshops not found elsewhere.
Are there extra-curricular activities?
Yes, we offer Lil Carpenters, Lil Chefs, Lil Actors, and other workshops that develop specific skills through hands-on, engaging experiences led by qualified instructors.
