Pre-school/pre-k in the Camp Hill/mechanicsburg Area

I have a Masters Degree in Education and I work in a daycare - I work there so that I can work and yet still be near my own 3-yr-old girl. Let me tell you, it is all about the teachers and how the facility is run – not their degrees and certifications. The word 'daycare' has a very negative connotation. Just because it is a daycare and not a ‘school’ doesn’t mean they aren’t teaching and that the kids aren’t learning. And, just because it is a ‘school’ doesn’t mean the teachers are teaching and that the kids are learning. Having a degree – anyone can get one. Caring for children, being able to relate to them, and actually believing in them are the most important qualifications. I also wouldn’t get too hung-up on what’s being taught beyond making sure they are including the basics. What is really important at this age are the life skills they are learning and using – sharing, being part of a team, knowing actions have consequences, etc. It doesn’t matter if you know all your letters, numbers, colors, and shapes– or if you’re even so wonderful that you can read and do math – if you can’t get along with others and have breakdowns over the small everyday stuff. Also, look for places that place a focus on gross and fine motor skills, as well as a lot of dramatic play – these are the things that will shape and prepare your child… whether the child is in a ‘school’ or a daycare.

Best wishes! You obviously care a great deal for your child, I hope you find the perfect place!

My daughter went to Wesley Preschool in Mech. They are a fabulous school and I would recommend them to anyone wanting a great school. She was 4 when she went. They got her ready for Kindergarten. She was a young kindergartener but was def. ready thanks to Wesley. Mrs. Shaffer is the the 4yr old teacher. She actually has her Masters degree in education and used to teach elementary school. I will def. be sending my son there when he is 4 also. Good Luck! Oh, I have also heard good things about Childrens Garden. I dont have first hand experience though. I noticed someone also recommended Wesley and she gave you a price, that is not a weekly price, that is a monthly price. And someone said about Mech. highschool having a program, yes they do but it is run by highschool kids and overseen by their teachers. Not sure if that is what you want.

Trinity Preschool in Camp Hill is $100/month. http://www.trinitycamphill.org/Preschool/index.htm

We love it there. Only the 4 day 4 year old has openings. Most preschools had sign ups in January, so you may have a tough time at this point finding many openings in this area.

I think I heard that through a Mechanicsburg school there is one that is even lower in price.

Check into Oakwood Babtist DaySchool in Camp Hill - the price is right and they are fantastic - my 7 yr old still talks about his great experiences he had there and when my younger children are ready I will be sending them there too....good luck... I give them my highest recommendation!!

I send my kids to Wesley PreSchool in Mechanicsburg. We LOVE it there! My daughter is now in kindergarten and Wesley did a great job preparing her for that transition. My son is currently enrolled at Wesley and can't wait to go to "school" in the mornings. They have classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds. The 3s go mon-wed from 9-11:30 for $105 per month. The 4s and 5s go mon-thurs from 9-11:30 for $115 per month. The cirriculum has a great balance of education and socialization and I do believe the teachers are certified. I found a lot of the preschools only focus on socialization. They 4s and 5s are considered Pre-K and feel very much like a kindergarten classroom (without as much pressure). Anyway, give them a call. ###-###-#### They are currently enrolling for fall and do fill up fast. They can give you a tour and answer any questions you have. I hope this helps you on your search.

Hi. I love Christ Presbeyterian(spelling) Church located in Camp hill. They are $85 a month, and it is only preK 3 and 4 year olds. Love the teachers. My daughter loves it now that she is used to it. The number is ###-###-####.
You must call asap as they fill fast.
It is 3 days a week tues, wed, thurs from 9am-11:30