Associação Promotora da Criança (APC) is a Catholic social welfare institution serving the municipality of Sintra from its Quinta da Raposa site in Rio de Mouro, Portugal. Founded in 1859 by Madre Teresa de Saldanha, the association provides early childhood education and care through three services: a nursery for babies, a crèche for children aged one and two, and a kindergarten for children aged three to five. Its educational approach supports each child’s individual development through playful, creative learning, family collaboration, and respectful attention to children’s needs and pace of growth.

Guided by its founder’s belief that education shapes the spirit, heart, and intelligence, APC promotes Christian, inclusive education and values such as respect, solidarity, sharing, and kindness. Children can learn and play outdoors in the institution’s open natural spaces, while its garden supplies organic produce and fruit. The association offers online pre-registration, information for families, and a virtual guided visit.