Management
Ganan Mancini
Owner / Director
Hello, my name is Ganan Mancini, and I am the proud owner of Kids & Co. Childcare Center. Growing up just 20 minutes away from Turner, in Auburn, Maine, I developed a deep passion for working with children. After working at a childcare center for seven years and obtaining a degree in Early Childhood Education from Central Maine Community College, I realized that this was where my heart lies, and I wanted to make a difference in the lives of young children.
As the owner of Kids & Co. Childcare Center, my goal is to create a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment where children can grow and learn. I believe in providing individualized attention to each child, helping them to develop a sense of confidence and independence that will serve them well throughout their lives.
My experience working with children has taught me the importance of communication and collaboration with parents and caregivers. I understand the challenges that come with balancing work and family life, and I am committed to working with you to provide the best possible care for your child.
I am honored to have this opportunity, and I look forward to getting to know each of you and building a strong relationship with your family. Thank you for entrusting me with your child's care, and I am excited to be a part of their journey.
"Whatever you do, do with integrity.
Wherever you go, go as a leader.
Whomever you serve, serve with caring.
Whenever you dream, dream with your all.
And never, ever give up"
- Carlson Credo
Alexa Samay
Assistant Director
Hello there! I go by the name Ali, although my full name is Alexa Samay. I grew up in Turner and currently still reside there. I have over 12 years of childcare experience, 8 of which were at Lever's Daycare in Lewiston and the remaining 4 years at Margret Murphy Center in Auburn. I have a 6-year-old daughter named Viera who I love to spend time with. Despite her cerebral palsy, we don't let that stop us from enjoying everyday activities like beach trips, visits to the jump park, and dance parties.
As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand the challenges of finding suitable daycare options. Therefore, my new mission is to make this process easier for other parents facing similar situations. I originally got into childcare because I love seeing children learn and grow. Witnessing their progress, such as singing their ABC's, identifying colors, recognizing letters and numbers, or spelling their name is an incredibly rewarding feeling. I'm thrilled to start this new journey and help children develop and thrive!
Infant Team
As a mom of five amazing kids, I’ve learned firsthand how patience, curiosity, and a gentle spirit can truly help children blossom. I’m so excited to be part of this team and can’t wait to get to know each and every child. My goal is to nurture their growth, spark their sense of wonder, and fill their time here with meaningful moments they’ll treasure. Every child has their own unique story, and I feel honored to help them learn, explore, and shine in their own special way.
Alex
Lead Infant Teacher
Toddler Team
Hi, I'm Karsyn, and I've been leading the toddler room for over 2 years. My own experiences at daycare as a child, along with babysitting, sparked my love for working with little ones. Volunteering at Levers broadened my horizons, showing me the incredible impact early childhood education can have. The moment I walk into the room and see the children's excited faces, I know I'm in the right place. My goal is to help each child learn and grow, developing their skills in all areas while having fun along the way!
Karsyn
Lead Toddler Teacher
Hello! I'm Eliza Bellegarde. I'm studying Early Childhood Education at CMCC and have over 7 years of experience in childcare. Starting in the school-age room, I discovered my passion for working with infants and toddlers. Now, as the head teacher in the infant room for over a year, I love watching babies develop motor skills and creating a safe, interactive environment. Excited to continue my education and build more relationships with children and families!
Eliza
Assistant Toddler Teacher
Pre-K Team
Hi! My name is Alexis Foss and I am the lead teacher for pre-k at Kids & Co! I have been working in childcare and with children for many years doing everything from babysitting to running a before and after care program. I graduated from Thomas College with a Bachelors of Arts in Childcare Management which has helped me pursue my dreams of working with children. I am so excited to get to know you and your kiddos in the coming weeks!
Alexis
Lead Pre-K Teacher
I’ve worked in childcare since 2021 and recently joined Kids & Co. after moving from New Hampshire. I’ve always loved working with children and enjoy watching their minds grow and develop in their own unique ways. My favorite part of the job is seeing the kids’ faces light up with laughter and excitement during the projects I plan for them. I especially love working with the Pre-K group, every day brings something new! Outside of work, I like spending time with family and friends, watching TV, and going on adventures.
Brianna
Assistant Pre-K Teacher
School Age Team
Hi there! I'm Novah, and I've been a toddler teacher here for almost 2 years. I've always loved being around kids, having done a lot of babysitting before, and growing up in a big family definitely helped! I'm so passionate about watching these little ones learn and grow each day, and it's always exciting to welcome new faces to our classroom.
Novah
School-Age Teacher
Float Team
I've always cherished children for the simple joys they bring to life. My experience includes babysitting, a CNA course leading to work at Montello Manor and St. Mary’s NICU. I've assisted at the Social Learning Center, worked on Psychiatric Units for almost 20 years, and spent 6 years at the Outpatient Children’s Unit until the pandemic led me to Kids & Company Childcare Center. Working with children provides countless teachable moments. I prioritize their safety while maintaining a fun and structured environment. Understanding their preferences, strengths, and unique qualities allows me to nurture their individuality. My ongoing goal is to enhance my skills to better support children and witness their growth into successful individuals by embracing their authentic selves.
Sheri
Floater
I've been part of the team for two and a half years, and one of the things I love most is watching children grow and learn. It's incredibly rewarding to see them grasp a new concept and know I've played a part in that. I strive to be a positive role model and a consistent, supportive presence in their lives.
Sara
Floater
I’ve worked with kids for about 10 years, starting as a babysitter. Being an older sister inspired my love for working with children, and I really enjoy getting to know the school-age kids and hearing their stories. My favorite part of working at Kids & Co. is watching their creativity come out during activities. I really enjoy having reptiles as pets, and that carries over into my job where I help care for our class pets, the gecko and three frogs. I love getting to share that interest with the kids! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, especially dirt biking and fishing.
Ella
Floater
I’ve worked on and off in childcare for about seven years and have been helping at Kids & Co. since it first opened. Growing up in a big family and helping babysit showed me how much I enjoy supporting children as they learn and grow. I love working with toddlers and pre-k because they’re at such a crucial age, and it’s amazing to watch their growth every day. Outside of work, I spend time on my mini farm and with my nieces and nephews, watching them grow into their own little people.
Kerrigan
Floater