Our Story
Begins With Your Child
For nearly three decades, Once Upon A Time Development Center has been writing the first chapters of children's stories — nurturing curiosity, kindness, and confidence in the hearts of the youngest members of our community.
My name is Gina Rivera, and I believe every child is an individual with their own ideas, likes and dislikes. We celebrate that diversity every single day.
— Gina Rivera, Owner & Director
A Community Built on Trust & Care
Once Upon A Time Development Center was founded in 1997 with a single mission: to give children the very best start in life through an environment that is safe, stimulating, and full of warmth.
What started as one center in Milford has grown into a beloved institution with two locations, a capacity to serve 145 children, and a reputation built over nearly three decades of dedicated, relationship-centered care.
Gina Rivera opens Once Upon A Time Development Center at 326 West Main Street in Milford, CT. The center is state-licensed from day one, with a commitment to developmentally appropriate curriculum and a low staff-to-child ratio that sets it apart from the very start.
Through word of mouth and genuine care, enrollment grows steadily. Families across Milford and the greater New Haven area come to rely on OUAT for infant care, toddler programs, preschool enrichment, and after-school support — all under one roof.
Responding to growing demand, Once Upon A Time expands to a second location in Shelton, CT — bringing the same philosophy, same standards, and the same family atmosphere to a new community of parents and children.
With 94% of families recommending OUAT, two thriving locations, and more than 25 years of experience, Once Upon A Time remains independently owned and operated by Gina — as hands-on, personal, and passionate as the day it opened.
Our Mission is to Nurture Every Child's Unique Potential
We believe every child comes into the world with their own ideas, gifts, and ways of learning. Our state-licensed, fully insured centers provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum designed to meet each child exactly where they are — fostering social skills, critical thinking, decision-making, and creativity in a safe, loving environment.
The Principles That Guide Us
Each child is an individual. Our curriculum celebrates that diversity, encouraging children to make choices about their own day, explore their interests, and develop at their own pace.
More attention. More connection. We maintain an intentionally low staff-to-child ratio so every child receives the personalized care and guidance they deserve every day.
Our teachers hold recognized credentials in early childhood education and bring genuine passion to their work. Many have been with us for years, building deep bonds with the families in our community.
State-licensed and fully insured, our facilities are designed with safety at every level. Parents can go to work knowing their child is in a secure, well-maintained environment.
Play is how children learn. Our curriculum weaves academic readiness into purposeful, joyful play — building the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
We welcome all children, including those with special needs. Our staff has experience supporting children with Down Syndrome, hearing impairments, and a range of developmental differences.
Gina Rivera
Owner & Director, Once Upon A Time Development Center
Gina Rivera founded Once Upon A Time Development Center in 1997 with a clear vision: to create a place where children are truly known — not just cared for, but celebrated as the unique individuals they are.
As owner and director, Gina remains deeply involved in the day-to-day life of both locations. She is the first person parents meet on a tour, the voice behind every family communication, and the steady presence that has made OUAT a second home for hundreds of families over nearly three decades.
Her philosophy is simple: when children feel safe, seen, and loved, they thrive. Every decision at Once Upon A Time — from the curriculum to the staff she hires — flows from that belief.
Two Locations to Serve Your Family
Milford, CT 06460
Stories From the OUAT Community
Our son has been attending OUAT since he was an infant. My wife and I could not be happier with the daycare program, Gina and her staff. Sadly our little guy is growing up and will be outgrowing the school soon, but our little one on the way will absolutely be attending. We recommend OUAT to all our friends and family in the area.
Right from my tour I felt that this center was the right fit for us. Gina was so welcoming and informative, and all of the staff were so warm. They made my return to work go so much easier. My son was always happy to go to the center, and happy when picked up. I couldn't have asked for better care.
Ready to Start Your Story?
We'd love to meet you. Reach out to schedule a personal tour with Gina and see firsthand what makes Once Upon A Time a place families recommend for nearly 30 years.
Schedule a Tour