About Camp KiKo

Camp KiKo is a modern learning space based in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, offering interactive experiences for children ages 3 and up in an environment where they can actively explore, create and share in communal play and enrichment.

Rooted in Japanese early childhood education philosophies, the space fosters children’s holistic growth through activities that develop their senses of community, cooperation, curiosity and care.

A young boy fishing by a lake on a sunny day, wearing swim trunks and a life jacket, with lush green trees and plants in the background.
Close-up of a garden pond surrounded by rocks, plants, and foliage, with a flat stone in the foreground.

Our Core Values

Hansei 反省

Reflection and self-awareness

Omoiyari 思いやり

Empathy and considering others

Gakkyū dan 学級 団

Belonging to a learning group

Kodomo no Shigoto 子供 の 仕事

“Children’s work” (play as meaningful exploration)

Kansatsu 観察

Careful observation (both teachers and students)

About Kris McClain

Founder & Educator

A woman in a white shirt and blue jeans standing outdoors under a blue canopy tent, smiling. There are boxes and a flag on a table nearby and trees and houses in the background.

A longtime educator in schools throughout Fort Wayne, Indiana,
Kris has more than 30 years of experience leading classrooms and inspiring learning in children of all ages and abilities.

Kris has been NAEYC-accredited for 24 years leading preschool classrooms. She is fully licensed and accredited by the State of Indiana in the following areas of instruction and age groups:

  • Early Childhood Education & Pre-Kindergarten

  • Elementary & Primary Education

  • Kindergarten

  • Special Education (for children 3 years old thru 12th grade)