At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Kids of the Kingdom
Kids of the Kingdom Child Development
Kids of the Kingdom (KOK) is a long-standing preschool ministry of First Lutheran Church, directed by Mandi Martel and serving the San Marcos community since 1989. Operated as a non-profit mission, the center emphasizes a nurturing environment that mirrors the care of a child’s home. The program is designed to support physical, cognitive, and spiritual development through developmentally appropriate play for children starting at six weeks of age. The center utilizes the Frog Street Curriculum, supplemented by instructional Spanish and sign language. As a 4-star Texas Rising Star facility, KOK exceeds minimum state standards for early childhood education. Daily activities are enriched by weekly chapel services and Bible teachings, aimed at fostering Christian values and social-emotional growth. Families are actively involved in the learning experience, with regular updates provided on their child's progress throughout the day.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
I was super nervous to put my little one in daycare because you always hear horror stories, but we are so glad we chose KOK! My son started going right after his first birthday back in July 2025, and we’ve had zero issues. The teachers and the director are all really welcoming and reassuring. I feel totally comfortable leaving him there, and they always keep us updated with how he’s doing throughout the day. He’s learned so much already. I would 100% recommend KOK to anyone!
I’m so grateful that I found KoK. I can’t say enough about what a blessing it is that I found a place that I feel safe leaving my daughter at. I never worry about her there. This school deserves nothing less than 5 stars.
I just love the teachers here! My kid used to be in Lambs with Melanie, Ruby, and Gabby and now she's in Noah's Ark with Rochelle, Matika, and Zoey. The teachers seem so loving and enthusiastic and my kid has learned a ton since starting there last November.
I can't tell you how much I love Kids of the Kingdom! I have had three children attend there and they all love it there. The teachers are amazing! Most have been there many years and have a true love for each child. Starting out in the infant rooms they teach sign language. As the move up kids are learning new stuff daily. My two oldest even learned some Spanish. I get daily updates on what they learning so I can re-enforce that learning at home. Since COVID they have gone above and beyond to take safety precautions to protect students and teachers. I have no fears of leaving my children there. Great and affordable.
Original review 12/13/14 My 15 mth old son is in the Lambs classroom, for kids under 18mths. I am so very happy with my decision to put him in daycare here. He is our first child and my husband and I searched all of San Marcos for a daycare where we felt that our son would be safe, and feel loved and Kids Of the Kingdom has met every expectation we had. The entire staff (that we interact with) is always so friendly and attentive. My son loves it there and smiles every time we go into the building. He loves all of his teachers as well as the director and asst director, who are both very hands on. I cant say enough about how happy we are with our choice. Edited 3/1/18 Now my son is 4 yrs old and in the oldest age class at Kids of the Kingdom, and my opinion has not changed ! He is outgoing, smart and friendly and a lot of that has to do with who he spends his time with each day. The teachers continue to impress me with how much they actually care about each individual student and how much the give to their classroom and their class planning . I have never been worried about if he is happy or loved because you can see it with how much he enjoys his school, class teachers, and his friends. They have gone through some director changes since we have been there but they have done so with ease and really no disruptions. I would recommend this daycare to anyone!
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No major safety incidents, legal issues, or closures were found for Kids Of The Kingdom in San Marcos. The facility is a licensed child care center (License #240712) and holds a 4-star rating from Texas Rising Star, indicating it meets quality standards that exceed the state's minimum requirements. While historical records from 2012 noted minor administrative and bedding violations, no recent critical safety concerns were identified in current public records.
Parent Reputation
Parents widely describe the daycare as a loving and trustworthy Christian environment with friendly, attentive staff. Reviews highlight the positive impact of the Frog Street Curriculum and unique learning opportunities like sign language and Spanish instruction. Families also appreciate the clean facilities and the seamless transition between leadership changes.
Staff Insights
Employee reviews on Indeed yield an overall rating of 3.2 out of 5, with common praise for a relaxed and flexible work environment that is particularly suitable for college students. Some staff members have noted concerns regarding low pay and communication issues with management, though many describe their coworkers and the community as supportive.





