Punkin Patch Childcare
Punkin Patch Childcare is a certified child care center in Red Lion, PA, with capacity for 230 children. It holds a Keystone STAR 1 rating. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it 16 times and confirmed violations in 14 complaint investigations. The state cited 83 violations, 26 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for building & playground safety (18 of 83). 26 citations came in the last 12 months, including 7 on a core-safety topic. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is tied for #72 of 105 centers in York County and has more citations per inspection than 67% of Pennsylvania certified centers.
Inspection record
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Citations, newest first
The file for Staff #5 did not contain a Maryland Child Abuse Registry Check Clearance, as required. The file for Staff #6 did not contain a Nevada Child Abuse Registry Check Clearance, as required.
In the School Aged Room, Staff Persons #5, 7, 8 and 9 listed combined primary care group that accounted for 29 of the total 38 children in care at the time of the inspection. Staff #1 explained that when a fifth staff person left for lunch, the remaining 9 children in care were not added to the primary care groups of the remaining four staff persons, as required.
The files for Staff #s 2, 4, 5 and 6 did not contain documentation of childcare work experience for the positions each of these staff members were hired for. These staff members must be paired with a qualified AGS, or higher, at all times until documentation of their required childcare work experience is on file.
Facility self-reported that on May 14, 2026, Staff Person #1 and Staff Person #2 did not know the whereabouts of members in their assigned groups, specifically, Child #1 and Child#2. On May 14, 2026, Staff Person #1 and Staff Person #2 were not physically present with children in their groups while on the facility premises. Specifically, Child #1 and Child #2. The children were unsupervised from 10:51:00 am until 10:53:57am, approximately 3 minutes.
The file for Staff #3 did not contain an NSOR clearance, as required. While the file for Staff #4 included Pennsylvania State Police, Child Abuse and NSOR clearances, it did not contain verification that a DHS FBI clearance has been requested, as required. Also, while the file for Staff #4 included verification of Child Abuse Registry and Criminal Record clearances for both New York and Texas, the file did not include Sex Offender Registry Check clearances for New York or Texas, as required.
The file for Staff #3 did not contain a health assessment and tuberculosis screening, as required.
Cert Rep observed that the kitchen was unstaffed and the kitchen door was unlocked. This created a hazard to the safety of all children in care.
In the infant/School-age/Pre-school hallway, and in the Two's One Room, Cert rep observed two separate electrical outlets, without protective receptable covers, that were both accessible to children 5 year of age or younger.
The file for Staff #2 did not contain valid Pediatric CPR/First Aid Certification in that documentation only verified that the online portion of the training was completed. This staff person was working alone with children in care.
Provider self-reported on 1/22/2026, between approximately 4:30 -4:38pm child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) eloped from the Ones (Room I) classroom. A parent picking up another child saw child #1 by the front door at the facility at approximately 4:38pm and returned child #1 to the Ones (Room I) classroom. Staff person #1 was assigned the responsibility for supervision of child #1 when the lapse in supervision occurred. Staff person #2 was also in the classroom, changing another child's diaper during this time. Staff person #1 and staff person #2 did not know the whereabouts of child #1 for approximately 4-8 minutes.
It was observed while reviewing video footage at the facility on 1/22/2026 staff person #1 grabbed child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) who was laying on the floor by the wrist/forearm to lift child #1 up from the floor. Picking up a child by their wrist/forearm can pose a threat to the health and safety of the child as a child's ligaments and joints are still developing.
The operator was not in compliance with the CPSL. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #3 containing FBI clearances dated 10/31/2020 and 11/5/2025, which exceeds the 60-month requirement.
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room B a magic eraser was not stored in an original labeled container or in a container that specifies the content.
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room D the first-aid kit does not contain tweezers. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room E there are areas of peeling paint. It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room F there are areas of peeling paint. It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room K there are areas of peeling paint. (ALL CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room I a hand washing sign was not posted by the sink. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
The record for child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) contains a health report that indicates the child only received one dosage of the hepatitis B vaccine and no other immunizations according to the recommendations of the ACIP; nor is there an exemption from immunization for religious belief or strong personal objection equated to a religious belief documented by a written, signed and dated statement from the child's parent or guardian cotnained in the child's record.
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in Room J child #1 has Cetirizine and an Albuterol inhaler on-site; however, written parental consent for the administration of medication was not present.
The adult health assessment for staff person #5 (DOH 9/22/2025) does not include tuberculosis screening by the Mantoux method at initial employment.
It was observed on 1/21/2026 in classroom B a bottle was not labeled with the child's name. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Child #3 is being transported in a van owned by the facility. Written parental consent for transportation was not observed on the emergency contact form kept in the van, nor was it found in the records kept in the facility's office.
The director has not completed a written evaluation of staff person #2 (DOH 8/8/2011) at minimum of one evaluation every 12 months. This is evidenced by the most recent staff evaluation included in staff person #2's record being dated 12/18/2024. The director has not completed a written evaluation of staff person #3 (DOH 9/5/1995) at minimum of one evaluation every 12 months. This is evidenced by the most recent staff evaluation included in staff person #2's record being dated 12/18/2024. The director has not completed a written evaluation of staff person #4 (DOH 1/28/2014) at minimum of one evaluation every 12 months. This is evidenced by the most recent staff evaluation included in staff person #2's record being dated 1/19/2024.
The record for staff person #1 (DOH 10/20/2025) does not contain proof of at minimum of an 8th grade education.
Emergency contact information for child #2 does not include health insurance coverage and policy number for a child under a family policy or Medical Assistance benefits, if applicable.
The Director or designated staff person who is responsible for compliance with this chapter did not ensure fire drills are conducted at least once every 60 days. This is evidenced by the last fire drill being documented as occurring on 8/15/2025, which is 69 days ago from 10/23/2025 when the fire drill log was reviewed.
The Director or designated staff person who is responsible for compliance with this chapter did not ensure the requirements under section 1016(c) of the act (62 P.S. § 1016(c)) are met. This is evidenced by the last manual testing of the fire detection system being documented as occurring on 8/12/2025. This is 71 days ago from when the manual testing documentation was reviewed on 10/23/2025, which exceeds the every 30-day requirement.
Show 57 older citations
It was observed on 9/5/2025 staff person #1 was in the 2's classroom with seven (7) children. The required ratio for older toddlers is 1:6. (CORRECTED ON SITE) Multiple staff members from numerous classrooms reported being consistently out of ratio for the past 2-3 weeks, especially early in the mornings.
Facility person #1 does not have a record on file at the facility and therefore does not have documentation of any of the required clearances. Facility person #2 does not have a record on file at the facility and therefore does not have documentation of any of the required clearances. The record for staff person #3 does not include proof of submission of their fingerprints required to request a DHS FBI clearance and therefore was not properly hired on a provisional basis as stipulated by the CPSL. The record for staff person #4 does not include proof of submission of their fingerprints required to request a DHS FBI clearance or the results of the NSOR certificate and therefore was not properly hired on a provisional basis as stipulated by the CPSL. The record for staff person #5 does not include a copy of the request or the results for the PSP clearance or the results of the NSOR certificate and therefore was not properly hired on a provisional basis as stipulated by the CPSL.
It was observed on 9/5/2025 at approximately 7:40am, Staff person #1, staff person #2 and staff person #3 were in the school-age room with 36 children. When staff person #1 was asked to name and point out the children in their assigned group, they stated that primary care groups were not assigned yet. Staff person #1 then proceeded to update the magnet board used to manage attendance and primary care groups.
Staff person #2 and staff person #3 stated they had 25-27 children in the Pre-K 2 classroom, which has a capacity of 23 on several occasions when another staff person would call off.
The record for staff person # 4 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not include a written report of an initial health assessment. The record does include documentation of a negative TB test, dated 8/29/2025. The record for staff person # 5 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not include a written report of an initial health assessment, including the results of an initial tuberculin skin tests, x-rays or other medical documentation necessary to confirm freedom from communicable tuberculosis.
The adult health assessment included in staff person #3's record does not include examination for communicable diseases and the results of that examination nor does it include the physician's or CRNP's assessment of the person's suitability to provide child care.
Facility person #1 and facility person #2 were observed to be included in ratios and/or have direct contact with children on 9/5/2025. Facility person #1 and facility person #2 do not have an individual record present at the facility and available for review by certification staff present on 9/5/2025.
The record for staff person #4 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not include verification of child care experience, education and training prior to service at the facility.
The record for staff person #4 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not include two written, nonfamily references from individuals attesting to the person's suitability to serve as a facility person. The record for staff person #5 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not include two written, nonfamily references from individuals attesting to the person's suitability to serve as a facility person.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 8/1/2025, staff person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) and staff person #2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) admitted that on July 9,2025 they were frustrated and dumped multiple toy bins out onto the floor and staff person #1 moved furniture and/or other equipment around and had the children clean up all of this as a form of discipline. Multiple children were reported to be crying and upset as a result of the staff persons actions. Two school-aged children willingly spoke with certification staff regarding this incident and reported feeling scared. The actions of the staff persons did not promote the development of skills, social competence and self-esteem of the children they were supervising.
It was observed on 7/25/2025 in the Pre-K 1 classroom water was dripping from the corner of the light fixture cover and forming a puddle on the floor. Multiple ceiling tiles throughout the hallways in the facility were observed to have water stains.
It was observed on 7/25/2025 that an infant was sitting in a Bumbo Seat without the safety straps being used. Staff members stated that the infant's thighs were too big to fit into the seat properly and the safety straps could not be buckled. The Bumbo Seat was not appropriate for the child's size.
It was observed on 7/25/2025 in the Infant room two infants were sleeping in cribs without 2 feet of space on three sides of the crib.
It was observed on 7/25/2025 in the Ones classroom a grain was not included in the lunch that was prepared at the facility and served to toddlers.
On 6/25/2025 Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) was observed to be working in the Older Toddler A classroom unsupervised with five (5) children in care. Staff person #1 has not completed training in pediatric first-aid and CPR. On 6/25/2025 Staff Person #2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) was observed to be working in the Pre-K 2 classroom unsupervised with nine (9) children. Staff person #2 has not completed training in pediatric first-aid and CPR. (ALL CORRECTED ON SITE)
The Director or designated staff person who is responsible for compliance with this chapter did not ensure the requirements under section 1016(c) of the act (62 P.S. § 1016(c)) are met. This is evidenced by a review conducted on 5/15/2025 of the facility's fire drill log documenting the facility's fire detection system was last manually tested on 4/10/2025, which exceeds the 30 day requirement.
In an e-mail correspondence with certification representative dated 4/22/2025 staff person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) confirmed that they switched roles with staff person #2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) effective 3/10/2025. At that time staff person #1 was appointed as the director and staff person #2 was designated as assistant director. Staff person #1 has not attained one of the director qualification levels. Staff person #1 qualifies as an assistant group supervisor.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 4/21/2025 multiple staff members stated that staff person #1 made a comment over the walkie talkie about a large bird coming down to scoop up a baby who wouldn't stop crying. Staff person #1 also made a comment about being hopeful that a child would catch the bird flu. Multiple staff members also stated that staff person #1 is often heard yelling at children and telling them to "get away from me, you're gross!"
During the course of a complaint investigation conducted on 4/21/2025 multiple staff members stated that staff person #1 is not nurturing or affectionate to young toddlers who cry and will ignore them. Multiple staff members stated that staff person #1 only talks to and plays with children who don't cry frequently.
The record for Staff person #2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a PDE FBI clearance dated 10/10/2025, a required DHS FBI clearance dated 1/23/2025 and an NSOR certificate dated 10/9/2024, all of which are after the hire date and therefore not in compliance with the CPSL. The record for Staff person #5 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains an NSOR certificate dated 11/16/2019 and applications for a new one dated 12/17/2024 and 1/30/2025, which exceeds 60 months and therefore not in compliance with the CPSL. Results for a valid NSOR certificate are not on file. The record for Staff person #8 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains documentation of mandated reporter training dated 11/15/2019 and 12/15/2024, which exceeds 60 months and therefore is not in compliance with the CPSL. The record for staff person #9 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a PDE FBI clearance dated 8/12/2021 at time of initial hire. The required DHS FBI clearance, dated 1/10/2025 was not obtained within the 45-day provisional hire period and is therefore not in compliance with the CPSL. The record for staff person #11 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a NSOR certificate dated 11/12/2019 and an application for a new one…
On 1/29/2025 Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) was observed to be unsupervised and caring for nine (9) children in the Pre-K 1 (classroom D) room. The record for staff person #1 does not include documentation of 2 years of experience with children.
The operator did not assure that each facility person received training regarding the emergency plan at the time of initial employment. This is evidenced by the documentation of Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) being trained on the emergency plan on 1/27/2025, which exceeds 90 days of their hire date. The operator did not assure that each facility person received training regarding the emergency plan at the time of initial employment. This is evidenced by the documentation of Staff Person #3 (DOH see LIS code sheet) being trained on the emergency plan on 1/27/2025, which exceeds 90 days of their hire date. The operator did not assure that each facility person received training regarding the emergency plan at the time of initial employment. This is evidenced by the documentation of Staff Person #4 (DOH see LIS code sheet) being trained on the emergency plan on 1/27/2025, which exceeds 90 days of their hire date. The operator did not assure that each facility person received training regarding the emergency plan at the time of initial employment. This is evidenced by the documentation of Staff Person #7 (DOH see LIS code sheet) being trained on the emergency plan on…
It was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Preschool room (classroom E) a set of string lights were plugged into an electrical outlet and the connector plug on the the string lights did not have a protective receptacle cover placed in it. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Infant room (classroom B) two (2) spray bottles containing cleaning solution are not labeled with the content. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Infant room (classroom B) tissues, paper towels, and baby wipes contaminated by human secretions or excrement (as confirmed by staff present in the room at time of inspection) were contained in an open, plastic lined receptacle. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed in the Pre-K 2 room (classroom F) two (2) go-bags, each containing a first-aid kit were accessible to children. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Preschool room (classroom E) foam is exposed on a child-sized couch. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
it was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Pre-K 1 room (classroom D) a thermometer was not placed in the refrigerator. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
The operator did not require the parent of Child #2 (DOB see LIS code sheet) to provide an updated health report at least every 12 months for a preschool child. This is evidenced by the most recent health report in the child's file being dated 12/24/2022.
It was observed on 1/29/2025 in the Two's room (classroom I) a swing top trash can is being utilized to discard soiled diapers. A swing top trash can is not considered to be hands-free. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
The record for staff person # 2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a health assessment dated 11/8/2022, which is more than 24 months and is no longer valid. The record for staff person #6 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains health assessments dated 11/1/2021 and 12/26/2024, which exceeds 24 months and therefore was not updated in a timely manner.
The letter the operator provides to the parent of each enrolled child explaining the emergency procedures does not include accommodations for infants, toddlers, children with disabilities, and children with chronic medical conditions.
Staff person #4 (DOH see LIS code sheet) has not participated, at least annually, in firesafety training conducted by a fire protection professional.
Emergency contact information for Child #1 does not include the work address and telephone number of the enrolling parent.
The record for staff person # 13 (DOH see LIS code sheet) includes one written, nonfamily references from individuals attesting to the person's suitability to serve as a facility person.
Staff Person #9 (DOH see LIS code sheet) did not complete professional development in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation within 90 days of hire. This is evidenced by documentation of the completion of professional development in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation being completed on 1/4/2025, which exceeds 90 days.
The record for Staff person # 1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a PDE FBI dated 10/7/2024 and not a required DHS FBI clearance. The record for Staff person #3 (DOH see lIS code sheet) does not contain the results of the DHS required FBI clearance. The record contains documentation fingerprints were submitted on 10/21/2024. Staff person #2 has not completed the mandated reporter training within 90 days of their hire date (see LIS code sheet).
The record for staff person #3 (DOH see LIS code sheet) does not contain an initial health assessment including the results of initial tuberculin skin tests, x-rays or other medical documentation necessary to confirm freedom from communicable tuberculosis prior to providing service in a child care setting.
Staff person #2 has not completed the required pre-service training as listed in subsections (f)1-10. within 90 days of their date of hire (see LIS code).
The record for staff person #4 does not include two written, nonfamily references from individuals attesting to the person's suitability to serve as a facility person.
Staff person #1 has not completed professional development in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation within 90 days of hire (see LIS code sheet). Staff person #4 not completed professional development in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation within 90 days of hire (see LIS code sheet).
During a complaint investigation conducted on 11/21/2024 several staff members stated that they observed Staff Person #1 sleeping on the floor during naptime in the Transition Threes classroom while staff person #1 was the only person in the classroom responsible for supervision of the children.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 11/21/2024 several staff persons stated that they heard Staff Person #1 call a child(ren) "SpongeBob SquarePants" to single out the child(ren) that staff person #1 found to be "annoying" and/or does not like.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 11/21/2024 several staff members stated that they have heard Staff Person #1 swear at children and/or in the presence of children. Some examples given were "Get the fuck away from me!" and using "bitch" and "shit" in sentences when talking to other staff members in the presence of children, loud enough for the children to hear what was being said.
Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) confirmed that on 10/23/2024 they picked up Child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) under one arm and carried Child #1 over to the fence as a form of discipline because the child was being unkind to younger children also on the playground. Several other staff persons witnessed this and during interviews described the interaction as "harsh" and stated that the child's feet were "dangling from the ground" as the child was being carried by one arm.
Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) admitted that in May/June 2024 they used a hot curling iron to curl Staff Person #2's hair while both staff persons were responsible for the supervision of approximately 6-7 children in the Transition Threes classroom. This occurred after naptime when the children were awake and playing in the classroom.
On 10/11/2024 at approximately 10:50am Child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) was left outside on the playground while Staff Person #1 and Staff Person #2 took the remaining 11 children back inside. Staff Person #3 was on the playground with another group of children and noticed Child #1 playing on the playground. Staff Person #3 called for a director and informed them of the situation. Staff Person #4 returned Child #1 to their assigned group. Staff Person #1 and Staff Person #2 did not know the whereabouts of Child #1 for approximately 1-3 minutes. Staff Person #1 was the lead teacher at the time of the incident and was assigned the responsibility for supervision of Child #1.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 10/7/2024 it was verified by several staff members that Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) threw a stuffed animal at Child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) to redirect the child from climbing on a bookshelf and said to Staff Person #2, "You will have to go get him, he is being an asshole" in the presence of children. Staff Person #1 was also heard saying to Child #1, "I can't stand you! You are so annoying!" also in the presence of children.
The record for Staff Person #1 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a PDE FBI clearance and not the required DHS FBI clearance. The record for Staff Person #2 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains a PSP dated 3/7/2023 with the status of "pending" and is therefore not complete. Staff Person #3 has not completed mandated reporter training within 90 days of their date of hire (see LIS code sheet)
During a complaint investigation conducted on 10/7/2024 at the facility, multiple staff members stated that Child #1 (DOB see LIS code sheet) was given the nickname "Satan" while they were in the Infant room because the child would give a "death stare" and was "mean to other children." The nickname followed Child #1 to various classrooms and multiple staff members admitted to referring to the child as "Satan" or "Tan" or "Tun" to each other. Staff Person # 5 stated that Staff Person #4 came into the bathroom on 10/3/2024 looking for Child #1 by calling the child "Satan" and the child responded by saying "Tan-Tan." Staff person #4 explained to Staff Person #5 the child says "Tan" because they can't say "Satan."
Staff person # 3 has not completed the following required pre-service training within 90 days of their hire date (see LIS code sheet): prevention and control of infectious diseases (including immunization) and the establishment of a grace period that allows homeless children and children in foster care to receive services under this subchapter while their families (including foster families) are taking necessary action to comply with immunization and other health and safety requirements, prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and use of safe sleep practices, administration of medication, consistent with standards for parental consent, prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions, building and physical premises safety, including identification of and protection from hazards that can cause bodily injury such as electrical hazards, bodies of water and vehicular traffic, prevention of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma, emergency preparedness and response planning for emergencies resulting from a natural disaster or a man-caused event (such as violence at a child care facility) within the meaning of those terms under section 602(a)(1) of…
During a complaint investigation conducted on 8/28/2024, seven (7) staff members confirmed that over the course of the past two (2) weeks there have been numerous times they have been out of ratio in the infant and toddler rooms, especially around 7:15am and 4pm. Staff members confirmed that there was a day when two (2) staff members were on the toddler playground with over twenty (20) children.
During a complaint investigation conducted on 8/28/2024 several staff members stated they have observed Staff Person #1 become frustrated with toddlers and use a harsh tone, including screaming in the children's faces. Several staff members stated they heard Staff Person #1 yell at an older toddler "Nobody likes you!"
It was observed on 4/17/2024 the first-aid kit in Classroom G did not contain tape. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
It was observed on 4/17/2024 there were numerous pieces of landscaping mulch on the Toddler Playground. The mulch has a diameter of less than 1 inch and is accessible to children who are still placing objects in their mouths. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
The legal entity has documentation of a draft comprehensive general liability insurance policy to cover the persons who are on the premises on file at the facility; however, the policy is not yet active.
The agreement for Child #1 does not specify the date of the child's admission.
“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
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (6 Weeks-12 mos.) | $59.60 | $59.60 |
| Young Toddler (13-24 mos.) | $56.20 | $56.20 |
| Older Toddler (25-36 mos.) | $56.20 | $56.20 |
| Preschool (37 mos.- Entering K) | $53.00 | $53.00 |
| Young School-Age (K-3rd gr.) | $43.20 | $28.20 |
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
Common questions
Has Punkin Patch Childcare had any serious violations?
Pennsylvania cited 26 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 Jul 21, 2026 (background checks): “The file for Staff #5 did not contain a Maryland Child Abuse Registry Check Clearance, as required. The file for Staff #6 did not contain a Nevada Child Abuse Registry Check Clearance, as required.” Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; each citation is listed in full above.
Have there been complaints about Punkin Patch Childcare?
Pennsylvania lists 14 complaint investigations 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 Punkin Patch Childcare’s Keystone STARS rating?
STAR 1, effective May 8, 2024. 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 Punkin Patch Childcare compare with other daycares in York County?
It is tied for #72 of 105 centers in York County by topic-weighted citations per inspection, and has more citations per inspection than 67% of Pennsylvania certified centers with enough inspection history to compare.
When was Punkin Patch Childcare last inspected?
Jul 21, 2026 (unannounced monitoring). The state cited at least one violation during that visit.
How much does Punkin Patch Childcare cost?
It reported full-time daily rates of $59.60 for infant, $56.20 for young toddler, $56.20 for older toddler, $53.00 for preschool in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search. Rates can change; confirm with the center.
Who runs Punkin Patch Childcare?
The legal entity on its Pennsylvania certificate is Premier PA Red Lion LLC.
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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.
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