Our History

In 1971, five families in search of quality childcare organized a playgroup in Cambridgeport. By 1974, this intimate group grew such that they raised $26,000 to renovate a former Model T repair garage on Chestnut Street. The funds were used for materials, and parents gave of themselves to establish Cambridgeport Children’s Center, affectionately known throughout the community as Tot Lot.

Tot Lot is now a community comprised of ethnically, racially, culturally and socio-economically diverse children, families, and staff. The founding mission of the center is to provide a safe place to counter the many forms of persistent discrimination in our society. Through careful recruitment, the school maintains a staff and family body of varying races, cultures, sexual orientations, and economic backgrounds. This family/staff cooperative works closely together on matters of policy, curriculum and everyday “Tot Lot” life to effect a fluid organization.

1970s - children explore indoor sandbox

1970s - foster grandparent with children during lunchtime