Punkin Patch Childcare
Request InfoDaycare and Preschool in Red Lion, Open at 6:00 a.m.
Who we are and when we’re open Punkin Patch Childcare is a daycare and preschool on South Charles Street in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, for children from 6 weeks through age 12. We’re open Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., so families who start work early can drop off before the day begins.
Infants and toddlers Families often compliment our infant program. Babies keep their own daily routines, with story time, gentle rocking, and sensory play built into the day. As children grow into our toddler program, circle time, songs, art, and hands-on play help them build language and early friendships.
School-age care and families For Red Lion Area School District students, our before and after school program offers homework help, outdoor play, and care during school breaks and holidays. Many of our families use Child Care Works subsidized child care, and we’re glad to help you understand your options when you visit.
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Curriculum and enrichment
Our classrooms from infants through Pre-K follow Learning Beyond Paper, a research-based early childhood curriculum with lessons planned for each age group. We recently added an Education Specialist to our team. Children ages 2 to 12 can also join Kids’ Kitchen, our weekly hands-on cooking class.

Meet Our Director
Hello, my name is Linda Richardson, and I am excited to join Punkin Patch as the Center Director. I bring more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education, along with degrees in child development and early childhood education. Creating nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environments where every child can thrive has always been at the heart of my work.
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to building strong relationships with children, families, and educators. I take great pride in leading a committed team, developing meaningful curriculum, and ensuring our center delivers the highest standards of care and learning.
Supporting young learners and mentoring staff is more than a profession for me. It is a purpose that guides my leadership and fuels my passion for helping children grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy.

Punkin Patch FAQs
Do you offer before and after school care for Red Lion Area School District students?
Yes. Our school-age program offers before and after school care with homework help and outdoor play, plus care during school breaks and holidays.
What curriculum does Punkin Patch Childcare use?
Our infant through Pre-K classrooms follow Learning Beyond Paper, a research-based early childhood curriculum with lessons planned for each age group. Children learn through hands-on play every day.
Do you accept Child Care Works?
Many of our families use Child Care Works, Pennsylvania’s subsidized child care program. York County families can apply through COMPASS or the Early Learning Resource Center for Region 10 in York.
What enrichment programs do you offer?
Children ages 2 to 12 can join Kids’ Kitchen, a weekly cooking class that builds math, science, and healthy eating habits. Each child gets a welcome kit with a chef’s hat, apron, and utensils.
How will I know how my child’s day went?
Families receive daily digital updates with photos and notes on meals and naps, and can message their child’s teacher. Teachers meet with each family for conferences in the fall and spring.
Who can pick up my child?
Only pre-approved adults with photo identification can pick up a child, and families enter a code on a keypad to reach the classroom area.