Best Friends Day Care
206 Bridge St, New Cumberland, PA 17070 · Cumberland County
1 complaint investigation found violations
Keystone STAR 1
Best Friends Day Care is a certified child care center in New Cumberland, PA, with capacity for 102 children. It holds a Keystone STAR 1 rating. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it 8 times and confirmed violations in 1 complaint investigation. The state cited 40 violations, 3 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for building & playground safety (16 of 40). 8 citations came in the last 12 months. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is #7 of 8 centers in New Cumberland and has more citations per inspection than 60% of Pennsylvania certified centers.
Inspection record
More citations than 60% of 4,789 Pennsylvania certified centers, per inspection, weighted by topic. More citations than most
#7 of 8 centers in New Cumberland
3
Core-safety citations
37
Other citations
8
Inspections
1
Complaint investigations that found violations
40 citations from 10 state visits since Aug 16, 2021 · 8 in the last 12 months · last inspected Dec 9, 2025
Every state visit
Violation found
No violation
Top row: inspections · bottom row: complaint investigations, self-reported incidents and other visits
What inspectors cited most
Building & playground safety
16
Health & medication
6
Records & paperwork
5
Emergency preparedness
5
Training & qualifications
3
Background checks
2
Food & feeding
2
Sleep safety
1
Citations, newest first
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
40 square feet wall-to-wall 55 Pa. Code §3270.61(c)
It was observed that the capacity established for classroom 3 (also known as the Panda classroom) was exceeded by two children. The measured space for classroom 3 allows a capacity of 16. On the day of inspection 18 children were present in the child care space.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “The director moved two children from the Panda bear room to a different classroom so that the capacity of the classroom was not exceeded.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Protective Outlet Covers 5 yrs. or less 55 Pa. Code §3270.65
It was observed in the Teddy Bear classroom, a surge protector power strip laying on the floor between the refrigerator and a changing table was observed to be missing protective outlet covers.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “Protective outlet covers were added to the power strip that was accessible to children.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Original container 55 Pa. Code §3270.66(b)
It was observed in the Koalas classroom a spray bottle containing a cleaning product was not labeled with its contents. It was observed in the Gummy Bear classroom a spray bottle containing a cleaning product was not labeled with its contents.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “The spray bottles were immediately labeled with its contents (bleach and water).”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Building Surfaces 55 Pa. Code §3270.76
It was observed in the Koala classroom that the diaper changing mat contained tears exposing foam causing a potential choking hazard.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “A new changing mat was ordered, and the old mat was replaced.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
No peeling paint or plaster 55 Pa. Code §3270.77(a)
It was observed in the Teddy Bear classroom damaged paint and exposed plaster on the wall near the windows at the rear of the classroom.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “A work order was put in to fix the damaged paint and exposed plaster on the wall near the windows in the Teddy Bear Classroom.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Health & medication
2 feet apart 55 Pa. Code §3270.106(f)
It was observed in the Teddy Bear classroom that nap mats being used by young toddlers did not have at least 2 feet of space on three sides of the rest equipment.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “All staff were reminded of the proper space required (2 feet of space on 3 sides of a cot), and they adjusted their rest equipment accordingly.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant/Director or designated staff person ensure compliance 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)/3270.95(b)
Operability of the fire detection devices were not tested every 30 days. Testing was documented to have lapsed 11/5/25 - 12/8/25.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “The fire system was tested the day of inspection and documented to have occurred. Reminders of when the next fire detection testing is due will be posted as a reminder so that there is no lapse in testing.”
Citation
Dec 9, 2025
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Posted in group space 55 Pa. Code §3270.111(b)
It was observed in the Carebear classroom that a written plan of daily activities was not posted in the child care space.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 20, 2026): “The schedule for the Carebear classroom was found and posted in their classroom immediately following our inspection.”
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
The file for staff person #1 included a State Police Clearance, Child Abuse Clearance and FBI clearance which was not updated within 60 months of the previous clearance. The current State Police Clearance is dated 9/17/2025 and the previous was dated 7/21/2020. The current Child Abuse clearance is dated 9/24/2025 and the previous was dated 7/23/2020. The current FBI clearance is dated 9/4/2025 and the previous was dated 8/13/2020.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 4, 2025): “Staff person #1 has the completed clearances in her file. Director will maintain in compliance with CPSL regarding required clearances being renewed every 60 months with no lapses.”
Citation
Oct 14, 2025
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
Staff person #1 did not complete mandated reporter training within 60 months of the previous training. The current training on file was completed on 9/17/2025 and the previous training was completed on 7/26/2020.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 4, 2025): “Staff person #1 has completed the mandated reporter training as of 9/17/2025. The certificate is in her staff file. All staff persons will complete the mandated reporter training within 60 months.”
Show 30 older citations
Citation
Apr 17, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Clean and good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.102(a)
It was observed on the toddler playground a plastic bench used by children is not in good repair by having cracks in many different areas creating rough edges and pinch points that could result in potential injury.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 2, 2025): “The toy bench was removed from the playground and thrown away.”
Citation
Apr 17, 2025
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Small Toys and Objects 55 Pa. Code §3270.103
It was observed on the toddler playground pieces of mulch accessible to children who are still placing objects in their mouths.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 2, 2025): “The teachers are taking out brooms daily to the toddler playground to remove mulch, that has migrated from the bigger playground. Any toys or objects that are less then 1 inch will not be accessible to the children as they are still placing objects in their mouths.”
Citation
Dec 23, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Handwashing signs 55 Pa. Code §3270.82(h)
There was no handwashing sign posted in the purple bathroom.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 11, 2025): “A handwashing sign was printed and posted in the girls (purple) bathroom.”
Citation
Dec 23, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Clean and good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.102(a)
It was observed in the Panda's classroom multiple books that were broken or torn and not in good condition.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 11, 2025): “Torn books were discarded and replaced with new books in good condition.”
Citation
Dec 23, 2024
Inspection
Food & feeding
Refrigerator 55 Pa. Code §3270.107
The thermometer in the refrigerator in the lunchroom area indicated a temperature of 50° F.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 11, 2025): “A new thermometer was purchased for the refrigerator so that it was showing an accurate temperature reading of the refrigerator.”
Citation
Dec 23, 2024
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Parent home/work address, phone 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(3)
The emergency contact form for child #1 does not include the work telephone numbers of the enrolling parent.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 21, 2025): “We contacted the parent of child #1 to fill out the work telephone number for her child's emergency contact form.”
Citation
Apr 23, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant/Director or designated staff person ensure compliance 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)/3270.95(b)
Operability of the fire detection devices were not tested every 30 days. The last testing date was documented to have occurred 12/2/23.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 22, 2024): “In the future the director will assure the fire detectors are tested every 30 days. We will create a log in advance with the dates to assure we are not going over the 30-day requirement. The fire system was tested 4/23/24 and documented to have occurred.”
Citation
Apr 23, 2024
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
Staff person #1 has not completed mandated reporter training within the last 60 months. This is evidenced by the previously documented mandated reporter training on file being dated 2/10/19.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 22, 2024): “In the future all staff persons will have their mandated reporter training completed every 5 years along with their required clearances. Staff person #1 completed the mandated reporter training 4/23/24.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Locked or inaccessible 55 Pa. Code §3270.66(a)
It was observed in the Koala Bears classroom, a backpack that contained a bottle of sunscreen and Simply Saline hanging on a low hook accessible to children. (corrected on site)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “Backpack was moved to be out of reach of children.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Food & feeding
Refrigerator 55 Pa. Code §3270.107
The thermometer in the second refrigerator in the kitchen area indicated a temperature of 50° F. (corrected on site)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “the refrigerator temp was turned down to reach an internal temp less than 45° F.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Health & medication
Exemption documentation from parent/guardian 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(e)(1)
The child health forms on file for children #1, #4, #5, #6, and #8 do not include the influenza vaccine.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “Parents of the children listed above have been asked to provide an updated vaccination form including the influenza vaccine or send in a note for their file explaining they are opting out of giving their child the flu shot.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Every 60 days 55 Pa. Code §3270.94(a)(1)
Fire drills have not been conducted at least once every 60 days. Fire drills were documented to have occurred 7/17/23, 9/18/23.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “Fire drills will be conducted once every 60 days.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)
Operability of the fire detection devices were not tested every 30 days. Testing was documented to have lapsed 3/1/23, 4/3/23, 5/1/23, 6/1/23, 7/3/23, 8/1/23, 9/1/23, 10/2/23, and 11/2/23.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “Fire detection devices will be checked/tested once every 30 days. System was tested the day of inspection on 12/18/23.”
Citation
Dec 18, 2023
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Admission date 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(6)
Agreement forms for children #1 - #10 do not specify the date of the child's admission.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jan 15, 2024): “A new agreement for services form has been created to more clearly specify the date of the child's admission.”
Citation
Aug 10, 2023
Other state visit
Health & medication
Medication log 55 Pa. Code §3270.133(7)
Medication log for child #2 has not been established by the operator.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 24, 2023): “The medication was removed from the property. The medication will not return until it has been properly labeled and a medication log is completed by the parent.”
Citation
Aug 10, 2023
Other state visit
Health & medication
Date of administration 55 Pa. Code §3270.133(7)(v)
Medication logs for children #1 did not include dates of administration by parents.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Aug 24, 2023): “The medication log for child #1 has been filled out completely. This includes the dates for administering the medication.”
Citation
Jan 6, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Original container 55 Pa. Code §3270.66(b)
It was observed in the Koala Bear classroom, room a Magic Eraser was not stored in an original labeled container or in a container that specifies the content. (Corrected on site - Magic eraser was removed from child space and discarded)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 2, 2023): “Magic eraser was discarded immediately until we could properly label them with the ingredients.”
Citation
Jan 6, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Inaccessible to children 55 Pa. Code §3270.75(b)
It was observed in the Care Bear classroom that the excursion bag containing a first aid kit was stored on a low hook that is accessible to children. (Corrected on site - staff member moved excursion bag out of reach of children)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 2, 2023): “The excurision bag was immediately hung up high and inaccessible to children.”
Citation
Jan 6, 2023
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Age and Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(e)(4)(i)
First-aid and CPR certification for staff persons #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, and #7 were not renewed on or before the expiration date of the most current certification.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Feb 2, 2023): “All staff persons will renew their CPR/First Aid course every 2 years prior to the training expiration date.”
Infant sleep position 55 Pa. Code §3270.119
It was observed that an infant was sleeping in a swing. Facility person #1 verbally confirmed that the child typically sleeps in the swing per the parents request.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2022): “The infant was immediately removed from the swing and placed flat on their back in a crib to sleep. (corrected on site)”
Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)
Facility Person #1 and Facility Person #2 did not have NSOR clearance results on file.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “Staff person 1 and 2 now have NSOR results on their files.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Contact when arises 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(3)
The facility emergency plan did not include a method for facility persons to contact parents as soon as an emergency situations arises.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “The facility emergency plan now includes a method to contact parents when an emergency happens and is over.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Contact when ended 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(4)
The facility emergency plan did not provide a method for facility persons to inform parents that the emergency has ended and to provide instruction as to how parents can safely be reunited with their children.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “The facility emergency plan now includes a method to contact parents when an emergency happens and is over.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Plan posted 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(d)
The facility did not have an emergency plan posted in a conspicuous location at the facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “The emergency plan is now posted inside the door of each building for the parents to see.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Letter to parents 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(e)
The facility did not have a parent letter created to provide to the parent of each enrolled child a letter explaining the emergency procedures.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 14, 2022): “I created a parent letter that was given to parents and will be added to our handbook for any new families to receive.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Protective Outlet Covers 5 yrs. or less 55 Pa. Code §3270.65
It was observed in the two year old classroom that an electrical outlet did not have a protective receptacle cover.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “The outlet in the 2 year old room now has a protective cover added to it.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Health & medication
Free from contagious/communicable disease 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(d)(7)
The health assessment on file for Child #2 did not include a statement that the child is able to participate in child care and appears to be free from contagious or communicable disease.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “Child 2 was given a new DHS health assessment form to be filled out. The health assessment was completed and has the questions answered. The child is able to participate and does not have communicable diseases.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Health & medication
Age appropriate screenings complete 55 Pa. Code §3270.131(d)(8)
The health assessment of file for Child #2 did not include a statement that age-appropriate screenings recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics were conducted since the time of the previous health report required by this section.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “Child 2 was given a new DHS health assessment form to be filled out. The health assessment was completed and has the statement that age-appropriate screenings have been conducted.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Amount of fee 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(1)
The agreement on file for Child #1 did not specify the amount of the fee to be charged per day or per week.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “Child 1 now has the fee written on the agreement.”
Citation
Dec 20, 2021
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Insurance coverage information 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(6)
The emergency contact for Child #1 did not include health insurance coverage policy number.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Mar 7, 2022): “Child 1 now has the health insurance and policy number on their emergency contact form.”
“Core safety” marks citations about supervision and staff ratios, discipline and caregiver conduct, background checks, child protection and safe sleep, the topics our score weights most. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity. “Follow-up” marks a violation re-cited at a follow-up visit, counted once. How scores work.
Complaint investigations and reported incidents
Violation found
Jun 14, 2022
Complaint investigation
1 violation cited, listed under Citations.
Pennsylvania’s search lists complaint investigations in which the state found at least one violation (“verified complaints”). It does not say what a complaint alleged, or whether every violation relates to it. Incident investigations look into something that happened at the center; self-reported violations are ones the center reported to the state itself.
Daily rates
| Age group | Full time, per day | Part time, per day |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn (Under 6 Weeks) | $63.00 | $63.00 |
| Infant (6 Weeks-12 mos.) | $63.00 | $63.00 |
| Young Toddler (13-24 mos.) | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| Older Toddler (25-36 mos.) | $58.00 | $58.00 |
| Preschool (37 mos.- Entering K) | $55.00 | $55.00 |
The daily price the center lists in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search for families paying privately. The state notes that rates are subject to change and programs don’t have to share them, so confirm with the center. See what daycare costs in Pennsylvania.
About this center
Capacity
102 children
Certificate status
Regular
Certificate valid through
Mar 12, 2027
Operator
Best Friends Day Care Center LLC
Hours
Monday–Friday 6:30 AM–6:00 PM How Pennsylvania centers’ hours compare
Phone
(717) 774-3319
State certificate #
CER-00251404
Common questions
Has Best Friends Day Care had any serious violations?
Pennsylvania cited 3 violations since 2021 on the topics Daycare Record treats as core safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep). The most recent, on Oct 14, 2025 (background checks): “The file for staff person #1 included a State Police Clearance, Child Abuse Clearance and FBI clearance which was not updated within 60 months of the previous clearance. The current State Police Clearance is dated…” Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; each citation is listed in full above.
Have there been complaints about Best Friends Day Care?
Pennsylvania lists 1 complaint investigation since 2021 in which it found at least one violation; the violations are listed above. Its search shows these “verified complaints” but not what a complaint alleged, or whether every violation relates to it.
What is Best Friends Day Care’s Keystone STARS rating?
STAR 1, effective Aug 1, 2019. Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania’s quality rating program for child care, from STAR 1 to STAR 4. It measures program quality, not inspection results, so read both.
How does Best Friends Day Care compare with other daycares in New Cumberland?
It is #7 of 8 centers in New Cumberland by topic-weighted citations per inspection, and has more citations per inspection than 60% of Pennsylvania certified centers with enough inspection history to compare.
When was Best Friends Day Care last inspected?
Dec 9, 2025 (renewal). The state cited at least one violation during that visit.
How much does Best Friends Day Care cost?
It reported full-time daily rates of $63.00 for newborn, $63.00 for infant, $60.00 for young toddler, $58.00 for older toddler in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search. Rates can change; confirm with the center.
Who runs Best Friends Day Care?
The legal entity on its Pennsylvania certificate is Best Friends Day Care Center LLC.
Certified centers nearby
Best Friends Day Care Center LLC
210 Locust Aly, New Cumberland · under 0.1 mi away · 44 spots No citations Best Friends Day Care Center LLC
406 2nd St, New Cumberland · 0.1 mi away · 18 spots Fewer citations than most Learning and Sharing Child Development Center
335 Front St, New Cumberland · 0.1 mi away · 141 spots More citations than most Bless the Children Academy LLC
608 Market St, New Cumberland · 0.5 mi away · 88 spots About typical Inspiration Station Early Learning Center
1200 Bridge St, New Cumberland · 0.7 mi away · 109 spots Fewer citations than most Christ Cornerstone Productions Academy LLC
747 N Front St, Steelton · 1.1 mi away · 172 spots More citations than most
210 Locust Aly, New Cumberland · under 0.1 mi away · 44 spots No citations Best Friends Day Care Center LLC
406 2nd St, New Cumberland · 0.1 mi away · 18 spots Fewer citations than most Learning and Sharing Child Development Center
335 Front St, New Cumberland · 0.1 mi away · 141 spots More citations than most Bless the Children Academy LLC
608 Market St, New Cumberland · 0.5 mi away · 88 spots About typical Inspiration Station Early Learning Center
1200 Bridge St, New Cumberland · 0.7 mi away · 109 spots Fewer citations than most Christ Cornerstone Productions Academy LLC
747 N Front St, Steelton · 1.1 mi away · 172 spots More citations than most
Citations are quoted from Pennsylvania Department of Human Services inspection records (Office of Child Development and Early Learning, Bureau of Certification Services), including each finding and the center’s plan of correction. Rule numbers refer mostly to 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3270, the rules for child care centers; a few cite Chapter 20, which covers every certified facility. Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; the “core safety” label and the score are Daycare Record’s.
To check the state’s own record, search the center’s name on COMPASS Child Care Provider Search and open its inspection history. Data refreshed Oct 16, 2026.
Comparing centers? See how to choose a daycare: 30 questions to ask and a printable checklist.
Concerned about this center? See how to report a daycare: which state line to call, what to write down and what happens next.