Everything You Need to Know, All in One Placd

We understand that choosing the right childcare center comes with a lot of questions.

Our FAQs are designed to give you quick, honest, and helpful answers—so you can feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right childcare center is important. Our FAQ section provides quick answers about programs, schedules, enrollment, and safety. If you don’t find what you need, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help!

What is Handled With Care’s mission?

Our mission is to support families and children by providing a nurturing, safe, and healthy environment. We help each child reach their full potential through positive learning experiences and a rich, play-based curriculum.

Does Handled With Care welcome everyone?

Yes! We value and respect individuals of all races, ethnicities, and genders. Inclusion and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.

Is Handled With Care a certified childcare center?

Yes. We’re certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.
For questions or concerns, visit www.dhs.pa.gov or call 1-800-222-2149.

What are your hours of operation?

We’re open year-round, Monday to Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Instruction begins at 8:00 a.m. Children must arrive by 9:00 a.m. or after naptime to receive care.

What does “family” mean in your center?

“Family” refers to parents, legal guardians, sponsors, or anyone responsible for the child’s well-being and care.

Do you have a parent or family board?

Yes! Families can join our Parent Board to share ideas, help shape center policies, and strengthen family connections.

What is your learning approach?

We provide a hands-on, play-based learning environment where children grow through exploration and creativity. Our flexible routine supports development in problem-solving, independence, reasoning, and self-expression.

What curriculum do you use?

We use Creative Curriculum for preschoolers and Learning Beyond Paper for infants and toddlers. Teachers assess each child’s progress through observations and screenings to provide personalized learning experiences. Families receive updates throughout the year.

Are children allowed to bring cell phones or electronics?

Children may bring phones but must turn them in at the office upon arrival. Devices are returned at the end of the day. Handled With Care is not responsible for lost or damaged items.

Do children go on field trips?

Yes. We offer supervised walking trips and occasional field trips (weather permitting). Permission slips are required, and children must wear appropriate clothing and shoes for safety.

When are payments due?

Payments are due weekly in advance and are required even for absences, holidays, or closures. Late payments may result in a $20 late fee. Please contact the office if you have any questions about your balance.

What fees do you charge?

A $75 enrollment fee is due upon registration and again in July each year. This covers activities and field trips. For families using ELRC, the second registration fee may not be covered—please confirm with ELRC directly.

Do you offer vacaion days for private pay families?

Yes. Private pay families receive vacation days based on their contracted schedule (January–December). Unused days don’t carry over, and a vacation request form must be submitted to the Program Director.