Keystone SMILES Preschool
We transport children ages 4-5 in the Keystone School District.
Explore Keystone SMILES Preschool
Keystone SMILES Preschool in Knox, ages 3 to 5.
A safe, hands-on place to learn and grow before kindergarten.
Request a visitThe essentials
- Ages
- children ages 3-5
- Hours
- Monday–Friday · 8:00 AM–3:00 PM
A room for every age
Children stay with us as they grow, moving room by room.
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Little Hands Childcare Center
We emphasize the development of the whole child, intellectually, physically, psychologically, socially and creatively, in a friendly and safe environment.
Explore Little Hands Childcare CenterHow we see children
Children learn here with their hands. They build, pour, sort and take things apart, and teachers work alongside them. The focus runs on science, technology, engineering and math, and on the academic, social and developmental growth that helps a child do well in school. Keystone SMILES Community Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) serving local schools, communities and non-profits in Pennsylvania.
Rooms are set up for hands-on learning, with STEM materials children can pick up, stack, pour and build with. The day moves between group time, play and quiet stretches so no one rushes. Teachers promote academic, social and developmental growth toward school success. Because the center is a 501(c)(3) serving Pennsylvania schools and nonprofits, families see learning connected to service. Ask staff what your child's classroom looks like.
A visitor notices the noise first. Children talk to each other while they work, and teachers answer their questions with questions. Hands-on learning shows up in small ways: a tray of water and cups, a table of leaves, a shelf of tools a child can take down alone. Teachers write down what they see so families hear something specific about their child, not a general report.
What a day looks like
A child arrives with a parent, hangs up a coat on a hook with their name, and finds their spot at the table. Teachers greet each child by name. It is 8:00 AM, Monday through Friday, and the room is set up before the first family walks in. A quiet activity waits for early arrivals so the morning starts calm.
The middle of the day is for play and small-group learning. Teachers bring out STEM activities, children work with blocks, water, sand and paper. Meals and snacks fit between, followed by a rest time for children who still nap and quiet books for those who do not. Outdoor time breaks up the longer stretches inside, weather permitting.
Afternoon is calmer. Children finish projects, help tidy, and gather for a story or a song before pickup. Parents hear a specific detail about the day, not just that it was fine. Our program runs Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Ask us about the schedule that fits your family.
How we work with families
At pickup, teachers tell you what your child did that day and what is coming next. Parents say the strength here is the teachers and how involved they are with the kids, making learning fun. Another parent said the children are happy, playing and learning. If you have a question, ask it at the door or call.
New children start with short days if that helps. A parent stays a little longer in the first week, then steps out and comes back soon. Teachers learn your child's routine, what they eat, when they rest, and what comforts them. Free preschool is available for eligible parents with children ages 3-5.
How to join
- 01
Get in touch
Call (814) 797-2127 and tell us your child's age and the days you need. We'll talk through what's possible for your family and answer your questions. Then we'll set up a time for you to visit.
- 02
Tour the room
Come see the classroom your child would join and meet the teachers who run it. You can watch how the room is set up and how children spend their time. Ask anything you like while you're there.
- 03
Enroll and settle in
Complete the enrollment forms and decide together with us how the first week should go. We'll plan a start that suits your child's routine, with time to adjust. You can ask questions at any point during those first days.
Good questions to ask first
What are the hours?
Our Preschool Program is Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
What ages do you take?
Children from children ages 3-5.
Which school district does school-age care serve?
Keystone School District.
Can we visit before deciding?
Yes. A tour is how most families decide, and children are welcome to come along.
What should my child bring on the first day?
Families usually pack a change of clothes in case of spills or water play. A small comfort item from home helps at rest time. Label everything with your child's name.
Do you offer part-time or flexible schedules?
Schedules depend on your child's age group and what openings we have, so the best thing is to ask us what is available. Call (814) 797-2127 with your child's age and the days you need, and we will talk through the options and answer your questions.
