Small Steps Daycare Center
125 Wolf Bridge Rd, Carlisle, PA 17013 · Cumberland County
1 core-safety citation in last 12 months
3 complaint investigations found violations
Keystone STAR 2
Small Steps Daycare Center is a certified child care center in Carlisle, PA, with capacity for 83 children. It holds a Keystone STAR 2 rating. Since August 2021, Pennsylvania certification staff have inspected it 6 times and confirmed violations in 3 complaint investigations. The state cited 50 violations, 3 of them core-safety (supervision, staff ratios, discipline, background checks, child protection or safe sleep), most often for building & playground safety (18 of 50). 22 citations came in the last 12 months, including 1 on a core-safety topic. Measured by topic-weighted citations per inspection, it is #20 of 20 centers in Carlisle and has more citations per inspection than 79% of Pennsylvania certified centers.
Inspection record
More citations than 79% of 4,789 Pennsylvania certified centers, per inspection, weighted by topic. More citations than most
#20 of 20 centers in Carlisle
3
Core-safety citations
47
Other citations
6
Inspections
3
Complaint investigations that found violations
50 citations from 9 state visits since Aug 16, 2021 · 22 in the last 12 months · last inspected Apr 13, 2026
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
18
Records & paperwork
15
Training & qualifications
6
Health & medication
4
Background checks
2
Transportation
2
Emergency preparedness
2
Sleep safety
1
Citations, newest first
Comply with CPSL 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)
The operator did not comply with the CPSL as they did not update clearances in a timely manner. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #3 (DOH see LIS code sheet) containing child abuse clearances dated 10/19/2020 and 3/13/2026 and FBI clearances dated 10/14/2020 and 3/18/2026 which exceeded 60 months. The operator did not comply with the CPSL as they did not update clearances in a timely manner. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #5 (DOH see LIS code sheet) containing PSP clearances dated 6/26/2019 and 3/7/2025, child abuse clearances dated 6/26/2019 and 3/16/2026 and FBI clearances dated 6/29/2019 and 3/14/2026 which exceeded 60 months. The operator did not comply with the CPSL as they did not update clearances in a timely manner. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #7 (DOH see LIS code sheet) containing PSP clearances dated 6/29/2020 and 3/10/2026 which exceeded 60 months. The operator did not comply with the CPSL as they did not update clearances in a timely manner. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #8 (DOH see LIS code sheet) containing PSP clearances dated 9/26/2020 and 3/10/2026 which exceeded 60 months.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “In order to stay in compliance with all the staff clearances I made a staff data sheet to hang in the office on the staff bulletin board. The staff data sheet will be visible to myself and all staff members. The staff will use the data sheet to renew clearances prior to the expiration date of their…”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Protective Outlet Covers 5 yrs. or less 55 Pa. Code §3270.65
It was observed in the Two's classroom on 4/13/2026 protective receptacle covers were not placed in two different electrical outlets accessible to children 5 years of age or younger. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “During the inspection protective outlet covers were placed in the electrical outlets that are accessible to children.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Has all items 55 Pa. Code §3270.75(c)
It was observed in the preschool classroom on 4/13/2026 the first-aid kit does not contain tweezers.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2026): “A new pair of tweezers were purchased and placed in the first aid box in the preschool room.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Building Surfaces 55 Pa. Code §3270.76
It was observed in the One's classroom on 4/13/2026 a ceiling tile has water stains and is not in good repair.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2026): “I removed the stained tile and replaced it with a new one.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
No peeling paint or plaster 55 Pa. Code §3270.77(a)
It was observed in the Two's classroom on 4/13/2026 the corner of the wall by the emergency exit door has an area of damaged plaster. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “During the inspection duct tape was placed over the damaged plaster to make it inaccessible to children until repairs can be made.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Hazardous toys and equipment 55 Pa. Code §3270.102(g)
It was observed on 4/13/2026 a Bumbo seat without the required safety strap, described as hazardous by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission was in the outdoor infant/toddler play space. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “During the inspection the Bumbo seat was removed from the premises and was disposed of.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Small Toys and Objects 55 Pa. Code §3270.103
It was observed on 4/13/2026 in the 2's classroom plastic bags are accessible to children who are still placing objects in their mouths in the bottom of the changing table. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “During the inspection a child safety lock was placed on the changing table cabinet doors to make that area that stores the plastic bags inaccessible to children.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Health & medication
Disposable diapers 55 Pa. Code §3270.135(a)(3)
It was observed on 4/13/2026 in the infant room a soiled diaper was left on top of the changing table while the staff and children were outside. The staff member did not immediately discard the diaper into a plastic-lined, hands-free covered can. (CORRECTED ON SITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “During the inspection the soiled diaper that was on top of the changing table was discarded into a plastic-lined, hands-free covered can. Cert rep observed another diaper change where the staff member discarded the soiled diaper by immediately placing the diaper into a plastic-lined, hands-free…”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Health & medication
12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)
The record for staff person #3 (DOH see LIS code sheet) contains health assessments dated 10/7/2022 and 3/12/2025, which exceeds 24 months.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “I'm making a staff data sheet to hang on the bulletin board in the office with all the staff members dates. The data sheet will be visible for all staff to see and keep track of their last physical. All health assessments must be updated every 24 months.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Transportation
Safe pick-up and drop-off in writing/Safe routes posted 55 Pa. Code §3270.171(b)/3270.171(c)
Safe pedestrian crossways, pick-up and drop-off points and bike routes have not been appropriately determined in the vicinity of the facility and communicated to the children and parents in writing. Written notification of safe routes has not been posted by the operator at a conspicuous location in the child care facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2026): “During student tours will tell parents about pick up and drop off points in the parking lot. I will also add this to my parent handbook as well. The written notification of safe routes shall be posted on the parent board with all other important information about the facility.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Emergency plan 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(a)(6)
An emergency drill has not been conducted annually.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “I have downloaded the appropriate emergency drill form and performed a drill on Monday May 4th, 2026. I have attached the form with its completed information detailing the emergency drill.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant/Director or designated staff person ensure compliance 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)/3270.95(b)
The Director or designated staff person who is responsible for compliance with this chapter does not have proof of purchase of an interconnected fire detection system that is required to be kept with the facility's fire drill logs in accordance with 62 P.S. § 1016(c)(3).
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “I downloaded and printed off the Act 62 attestation statement and then filled it out. It was then placed in my fire drill log folder.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Transportation
Pick-up and drop-off points 55 Pa. Code §3270.171(a)
The operator stated they have never notified local traffic safety authorities in writing of the location of the facility and the program's use of pedestrian and vehicular routes around the child care facility.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2026): “I will type up a letter and send it notifying the local traffic authority of the facilities location and routes the program uses. The letter will be mailed to the traffic authority Annually.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Age and Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(e)(4)(i)
Staff person #1 did not renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. This is evidenced by certificates dated 11/27/2023-2025 and 3/23/2026 - 2028. Staff person #2 did not renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. This is evidenced by certificates dated 11/27/2023-2025 and 3/23/2026 - 2028. Staff person #3 did not renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. This is evidenced by certificates dated 11/27/2023-2025 and 3/23/2026 - 2028. Staff person #4 did not renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. This is evidenced by certificates dated 10/10/2022-2024 and 3/23/2026 - 2028. Staff person #5 did not renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the…
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 1, 2026): “I made a staff data sheet with all the staff members training dates on it. I hung it on the staff bulletin board in the office. I look at this board almost every day and hang the weekly schedule their as well. The staff will use this to schedule pediatric first-aid/cpr prior to the expiration date…”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Staff evaluations 55 Pa. Code §3270.34(a)(6)
The director has not completed a written evaluation for staff persons #4 - 7 (DOH see LIS code sheet) at least every 12 months. This is evidenced by a written evaluation not being in the records for staff persons #4,5, and 6 and the most recent one for staff person #7 being dated 8/23/2019.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 26, 2026): “I plan on completing the staff evaluations within the next 60 days. Once schools start summer vacation my attendence will drop as well giving me more time to complete the evaluations.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Services proceeded 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(3)
The records for child #1 -5 contains an ASQ, which is not an approved form to provide information to the family about the child's growth and development in the context of serviced being provided.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 11, 2026): “I downloaded the Child Service Report Form from the DHS website. I made copies and had staff complete them, review them with parents, and added them to each child's folder.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Admission date 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(6)
The agreement for child #1, #3, #4, and #5 does not specify the date of the child's admission.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “All agreement forms now have the date of admission of all enrolled children.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Parent receives original 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(b)
The records for child #1-#5 all contained the original agreement. The operator did not provide the parents with the original agreement.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 15, 2026): “I made copies of the agreements of all the current enrolled students and gave the original to the parents.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Physician name, address, phone 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(2)
Emergency contact information for child #3 does not include the telephone number of the child's physician or source of medical care.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “I had the parent fill in the missing information on the enrollment form, to include the telephone number of the child's physician or source of medical care.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Parent home/work address, phone 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(3)
Emergency contact information for child #3 does not include the work address and telephone number of the enrolling parent.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “I had the parent fill in the missing work address and telephone number on the enrollemt form.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Name/address/phone release person 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(7)
Emergency contact information for child #2, #3 and #5 does not include the address of the individual designated by the parent to whom the child may be released.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “Each parent has filled in the missing information, to include the address on the enrollment form in the whom the child can be released to section.”
Citation
Apr 13, 2026
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Updated every 6 months/Emergency info/agreement updated 6 mos 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(f)/3270.181(c)
The operator has been requiring the parents to review and update the emergency contact information and the financial agreement annually and not at least once in a 6-month period. This is evidenced by the emergency contact information and financial agreement for child #1 being reviewed on 3/15/2025 and 3/26/2026, child #2 on 3/19/2025 and 3/12/2026, child #3 on 1/9/2025 and 3/9/2026, and child #4 on 3/19/2025 and 3/9/2026.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 5, 2026): “I had the parents review the enrollment forms and the agreements have been updated. Going forward I plan to have all parents review emergency contact forms and agreement forms in the Spring and Fall.”
Show 28 older citations
Citation
Aug 22, 2025
Complaint investigation
Health & medication
Facility Person/Symptoms of Disease 55 Pa. Code §3270.153
On 8/5/25, staff person #1 was allowed to work after testing positive for a communicable disease. The facility did not require notification from a physician or CRNP that the individual was no longer considered a threat to the health of other before allowing them to work on 8/5/25.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Sep 25, 2025): “On 8/5/25, staff person #1 left work and did not return to work for 3 days, with a doctor's note.”
Citation
Apr 17, 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)
Between 4/9/24 and 3/20/25 the facility tested the fire implementation system every 60 days. ***CORRECTED UPON CITE***
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 16, 2025): “I received a new form for fire drills and building testing. On 4/17/25, the system was tested.”
Citation
Apr 17, 2025
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Staff evaluations 55 Pa. Code §3270.34(a)(6)
Staff #1 and Staff #2 do not have on file an annual evaluation.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 16, 2025): “Evaluations were completed for staff #1 and staff #2 have been completed”
Citation
Apr 17, 2025
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Emergency info/agreement updated 6 mos 55 Pa. Code §3270.181(c)
Children #1 and #2 emergency contact information form and agreement were not updated within 6-month period between 2/28/24 and 3/19/25.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 16, 2025): “Going forward, all forms will be updated in August and February. Forms will be signed at these times.”
Citation
Apr 17, 2025
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Two written references 55 Pa. Code §3270.192(5)
Staff #3 did not have on file two written references.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 16, 2025): “Staff #3 was able to provide a 2nd reference”
Citation
Oct 8, 2024
Complaint investigation
Building & playground safety
Building Surfaces/Clean and good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.76/3270.102(a)
The fence to the left side of the younger children's playground, was observed to have a hole near the far corner. The fence than runs along the back of the young children's play ground was observed to have a hole near the base of the fence half way down the length of the fence. The Little Tykes climber was observed to have cracks in the floor of the climber and the floor was weaken which poses a risk of injury to a child. The playground tile located between the gate of the older and younger children's playground was observed to be broken and cracked. The fence located on the older children's playground side was observed to have 2 holes near the picnic table. (Corrected onsite - the broken tile was removed from the playground).
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 12, 2024): “The chain link was repaired.”
Citation
Oct 8, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Good repair 55 Pa. Code §3270.72(c)
The screen in the window to the left of the door to the playground, was observed to be ripped out of the bottom portion of the frame.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Dec 12, 2024): “The screen was repaired.”
Comply with CPSL/CPSL information 55 Pa. Code §3270.32(a)/3270.192(4)
Staff #1 had a volunteer child abuse clearance on file dated 9/8/20. Staff #2 did not have a copy of the NSOR clearance on file. Staff #1, staff #4 and staff #5 did not have a copy of mandated reporting training on file.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “Staff #1 did apply for the child abuse clearance on 4/19/24. Staff #2 did apply for the NSOR clearance on 4/19/24. Staff #1, #4 and Staff #5 will complete their mandated reporting training. Staff #1 and Staff #4 will not work with children until the clearances are received.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
On excursions 55 Pa. Code §3270.75(d)
One excursion bag was observed outside on the playground. The one excursion bag was used for all 4 classrooms that were outside on the playground. All rooms do not have an excursion bag.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 29, 2024): “All rooms have excursion bags.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Building Surfaces/No peeling paint or plaster 55 Pa. Code §3270.76/3270.77(a)
The wall on the left hand side of the entrance to the bathroom from the 1 year's room, was observed to have a section of paint and dry wall peeled away from the wall.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “The wall was spackled and repaired.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Outdoor equip.- protective surfacing 55 Pa. Code §3270.102(c)
The anchored climber located on the playground was observed not to have 9 inches on mulch located in the fall areas outside and inside the climber.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 29, 2024): “Mulch was added to the fall zones around the climber.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Health & medication
12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter/Health assessment, TB test 55 Pa. Code §3270.151(a)/3270.192(3)
Staff #3 and staff #4 do not have on file a health assessment or documentation of results of a TB test.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “Staff #3 and staff #4 will provide health assessments and TB results.”
Citation
Apr 19, 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)
The facility did not have documentation on file that the fire detection system was tested every 30 calendar days. (CORRECTED UPON CITE)
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “Fire detection system was tested during inspection”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Health and Safety Training/Professional development certificate 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)/3270.31(g)
Staff #3 was hired 9/18/23. Staff #3 does not have on file the required CCDBG Health and Safety training.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “Staff #3 completed the Health and Safety Training.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Each child care space 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(c)
All 4 classrooms did not emergency contact information form for each child located in that room.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 29, 2024): “Emergency contact forms are located in each classroom.”
Citation
Apr 19, 2024
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Consent for emergency medical care required prior to admission/Consent for administration of minor first-aid required prior to admission 55 Pa. Code §3270.182(3)/3270.182(5)
The emergency contact information forms on file for child #1 and child #2 did not have a parent's signature for emergency medical care and administration of minor first-aid.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 21, 2024): “Parents will sign emergency contact form consenting to emergency medical care and administration of minor first-aid”
Citation
Apr 28, 2023
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Devices must be compliant 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(a)
Documentation on file for the fire implementation system does show the system was tested every 30 days.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 30, 2023): “The fire implementation system/ smoke detectors will be tested monthly (every 30 days).”
Citation
Apr 28, 2023
Inspection
Training & qualifications
46 or more children- additional group sups 55 Pa. Code §3270.35(e)
The director stated that on the highest days of attendance there are 49-50 children present at the facility. On 4/28/23, 49 children were observed in attendance. 1 Facility staff person is the only staff person qualified as a Group Supervisor.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jun 30, 2023): “As of 6/12/23, enrollment has dropped to below 45 children. Facility still intends to advertise for a group supervisor.”
Citation
Apr 28, 2023
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Posted in group space 55 Pa. Code §3270.111(b)
The written plan for daily activities was not posted in the 2 yrs. old room.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Apr 28, 2023): “The plan for daily activities was posted.”
Citation
Apr 28, 2023
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Amount of fee 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(1)
Agreement on file for child #3 did not have fee amount and date fee to be paid.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2023): “Agreement was amended with fee amount.”
Citation
Apr 28, 2023
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Physician name, address, phone 55 Pa. Code §3270.124(b)(2)
Child #3's emergency contact form on file did not provide name, address and phone number of child's physician.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 30, 2023): “The emergency contact form was amended to include physician's information.”
Infant sleep position 55 Pa. Code §3270.119
On 11/8/22, at approx 10:00 am, an infant was observed sleeping in a swing in the back of the infant room. Staff #1 stated the infant was sleeping in the swing for 5 minutes as staff #2 placed the infant in the swing prior to staff #2 going to the bathroom.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Nov 16, 2022): “Upon cite, the infant was removed from the swing and placed in infant's assigned crib.”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Emergency preparedness
Letter to parents 55 Pa. Code §3270.27(e)
It was observed that the facility emergency letter provided to parents did not include an explanation of procedures for emergency lock-down.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, May 26, 2022): “The facility emergency plan letter given to the families now includes procedures for emergency lock-down and was provided to families.”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Locked or inaccessible 55 Pa. Code §3270.66(a)
It was observed in the two year old classroom that the diaper changing table was unlocked with ten assorted brands of diaper cream accessible to children.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jul 5, 2022): “The changing table was locked and talked to staff about keeping it locked at all times”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Building Surfaces 55 Pa. Code §3270.76
It was observed in the two year old classroom that there was a broken cabinet door.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jul 5, 2022): “I replaced the screws in the hinge so that the door will close.”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Building & playground safety
Director or designated staff person ensure compliance 55 Pa. Code §3270.95(b)
The facility director did not ensure that testing of the fire system was conducted every 30 days and documented.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jul 5, 2022): “I have the new fire system test log hanging by the staff schedule. I will document each test of the system every 30 days.”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Training & qualifications
Health and Safety Training 55 Pa. Code §3270.31(f)
Staff person #1, #2, #3, #4, #5--- has not completed the following required pre-service training within 90 days of their date of hire (see LIS code sheet): Health & Safety Training.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jul 7, 2022): “Staff person(s) shall complete professional development in the topics of 3270.31(f)(1 -- 10) within 90 days of hire. Staff Person #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 have now completed the better kid care Health and Safety training.”
Citation
Apr 26, 2022
Inspection
Records & paperwork
Admission date 55 Pa. Code §3270.123(a)(6)
The file for child #1, #2, #3, #4 did not include admission dates.
Center’s plan of correction (implemented, Jul 7, 2022): “Admission dates are now included for child #1, #2, #3 and #4 on the agreement form. This will be done on the day of enrollment and added to the checklist.”
“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
Aug 22, 2025
Complaint investigation
1 violation cited, listed under Citations.
Violation found
Oct 8, 2024
Complaint investigation
1 violation cited, listed under Citations.
Violation found
Nov 8, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (6 Weeks-12 mos.) | $49.20 | $49.20 |
| Young Toddler (13-24 mos.) | $46.40 | $46.40 |
| Older Toddler (25-36 mos.) | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| Preschool (37 mos.- Entering K) | $43.80 | $43.80 |
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
83 children
Certificate status
Regular
Certificate valid through
Jul 5, 2027
Operator
Megan & Corey LLC
Hours
Monday–Friday 6:30 AM–5:30 PM How Pennsylvania centers’ hours compare
Phone
(717) 243-3002
State certificate #
CER-00257746
Common questions
Has Small Steps Daycare Center 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 Apr 13, 2026 (background checks): “The operator did not comply with the CPSL as they did not update clearances in a timely manner. This is evidenced by the record for staff person #3 (DOH see LIS code sheet) containing child abuse clearances dated…” Pennsylvania’s records don’t grade violations by severity; each citation is listed in full above.
Have there been complaints about Small Steps Daycare Center?
Pennsylvania lists 3 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 Small Steps Daycare Center’s Keystone STARS rating?
STAR 2, effective Sep 29, 2025. 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 Small Steps Daycare Center compare with other daycares in Carlisle?
It is #20 of 20 centers in Carlisle by topic-weighted citations per inspection, and has more citations per inspection than 79% of Pennsylvania certified centers with enough inspection history to compare.
When was Small Steps Daycare Center last inspected?
Apr 13, 2026 (renewal). The state cited at least one violation during that visit.
How much does Small Steps Daycare Center cost?
It reported full-time daily rates of $49.20 for infant, $46.40 for young toddler, $45.00 for older toddler, $43.80 for preschool in Pennsylvania’s COMPASS search. Rates can change; confirm with the center.
Who runs Small Steps Daycare Center?
The legal entity on its Pennsylvania certificate is Megan & Corey LLC.
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1151 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle · 0.6 mi away · 146 spots Fewer citations than most Childtime Sacc Hamilton Elem
735 Clay St, Carlisle · 1.5 mi away Fewer citations than most Childtime Sacc Crestview Elem
240 Longs Gap Rd, Carlisle · 1.6 mi away No citations Kids Company
500 E North St, Carlisle · 1.8 mi away · 100 spots About typical Christian Youth Ministries
450 E North St, Carlisle · 1.8 mi away · 95 spots About typical YWCA Little Wonders Preschool
301 G St, Carlisle · 1.9 mi away · 41 spots Fewer 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.