Child care, education, and development form the pillars of the early learning process of a child, with an emphasis on round-the-clock development in intellectual, emotional, and social spheres. Preschools and daycares in India are typically independently operated, but this independence is sure to inhibit a seamless learning process. The merging of early childhood education with child care ensures continuity, supports stages of development, and provides children with a single learning environment.

A shared strategy bridges gaps, promotes continuity, and benefits individual children overall in a positive manner. This lack of an all-under one-umbrella setup kept working mothers from returning to their careers and homemakers from balancing personal enterprises without worry. This shortage of an all-inclusive childcare system highlighted the social and infrastructure needs, inspiring the founding of KLAY.

“Our objective is simple, to provide a space where children could learn, play, and grow while parents can pursue their goals with peace of mind”, says Shruti Madhavan, Senior Vice President, KLAY. What sets it apart is its wide reach and flexible business model.

Starting in 2011 with its first preschool in Whitefield, Bengaluru, KLAY has now expanded to Hyderabad, Gurgaon, and has operations in seven big cities, apart from 12 to 13 other locations where demand from families exists.

The company follows three models of childcare centres to meet diverse family needs. Captive centres or on-site, located within company campuses; provide childcare and early education while allowing parents easy access to their children during the workday.

Nearsite centres are set up close to or within major tech parks, offering working parents convenience and flexibility. Retail centres, situated in residential neighborhoods, serve local families with preschool and daycare programs in a familiar community setting.

A Journey of Purpose & Innovation

KLAY was born out of individual necessity. Priya Krishnan, returning from the UK with her two children, noticed the lack of holistic early childhood opportunities available in India.

She envisioned a space where kids would receive continuous learning and nurturing, plugging the gaps that existed that has in conventional preschools and daycare facilities.

The first center in Bengaluru was the beginning of an endeavor that continued to cater to over 60,000 families spread across the nation. The preschool activities are for children between six months and six years old, with additional after-school care until the age of ten. The Infant care section focuses on emotional bonding, socialization, and physical activity for infants up to fifteen months.

Toddlers from 15 months to three years are engaged in structured routines, early learning activities in early childhood, and group interaction that prepares them for preschool. Pre-Kindergarten to Kindergarten 2 emphasizes academic readiness, communication, storytelling, and confidence building to ease the transition to primary school.

Curriculum and programming for development occur in the same way at community and corporate centers; so that children enjoy a stable, enriched experience while working parents are on the job. “We believe early learning should not stop because parents are at their offices, our centers ensure children continue to grow and explore in a safe, stimulating environment”, says Arshleen Kalra, Vice President of Academics, KLAY.

KLAY believes the early years shape lifelong growth & school readiness, & is committed to providing every child regardless of their needs with care, guidance, & meaningful learning opportunities

Empowering Educators & Nurturing Growth

KLAY teachers are at the heart of creating frequent, highquality learning moments. Recruitment focuses on attitude, emotional intelligence, and adaptability rather than only formal qualifications. Every teacher undergoes an intensive induction of 50 hours, supplemented by ongoing workshops, mentoring, and leadership programs. A buddy system pairs new teachers with experienced colleagues for the first three months to ensure a smooth transition into classroom management. The organization invests in teacher well-being and retention through offsite retreats, subsidized childcare, medical coverage, and school-aligned leave.

“KLAY has transformed Renan’s growth and daily habits with their loving care, nutritious meals, and nurturing environment, giving us priceless peace of mind as parents”, says Shoma Shelke, Renan’s mother.

Career growth pathways span academics, operations, and administration, enabling both vertical and lateral progression.

Teachers embody the Reggio Emilia philosophy, acting as co-learners who guide children through investigative, play based learning. The KLAY Edge curriculum integrates cognitive, social and emotional development, promoting holistic growth. Parent engagement, educational outings, and community initiatives like The Joy of Giving instill empathy and social responsibility. Inclusive classrooms, individualized learning plans, and therapy support ensure that every child, including those with special needs, thrives in a nurturing and adaptive environment.

Future Vision

KLAY’s commitment extends well beyond its direct student community. The organization contributes to the larger society by conducting teacher-training programs, partnering with organizations that promote skill development, and engaging in donation drives throughout the year. All centres operate under stringent quality controls and draw from globally recognized early childhood frameworks, including the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) standards, and Reggio Emilia principles.

Health, safety, and infrastructure are overseen by teams certified by NEBOSH and IOSH, ensuring robust risk management and child-safety practices. KLAY is also working towards ISO certification to further standardize operations and strengthen data security measures. In its corporate childcare vertical, the organization continues to expand, inclusively designing environments that welcome and support neurodivergent children. Additionally, with innovation, quality, and inclusion at its core, the organization will continue to redefine India’s early childhood education landscape.