Child Youth Programs
The Susquehanna Child and Youth Programs (CYP) provide a range of care options including:
At the Child and Youth Programs, Our Child Development Center (CDC), nurtures age 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten and our School Age Services (SAS), enrich Kindergarten to 5th grade. Our program provides high-quality programs and services that support service members, civilian personnel, and their families. We are DoD certified and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children(NAEYC), reflecting our commitment to excellence. Patron eligibility and priority is determined in accordance with DOD guidance.
Hours of Operation
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Monday- Friday |
5:45 am – 5:15 pm |
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Saturday- Sunday |
Closed |
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U.S. Federal Holidays |
Closed |
Contact Us
J Avenue, Building 255
717-770-7360
Upcoming Events
Before & After School Care
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Before School Care |
5:45 am- 8:30am |
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After School Care |
3:30 pm- 5:15pm |
Program Highlights:
- Bussing to and from St. Theresa and Hillside Elementary.
- 4-H and BGCA program partnerships.
- Staff available to provide care during in-service/remote learning days for West Shore School District only.
- After-School homework assistance.
- Breakfast, lunch, and snack provided.
Part-Day Afternoon Kindergarten
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Monday- Friday |
11:30 am- 5:15 pm |
Program Highlights:
- Bussing from Hillside Elementary.
- 4-H and BGCA program partnerships.
- Extension of West Shore School District kindergarten classroom curriculum.
- Lunch and Snack provided.
Need care for your child?
Register on the waitlist as soon as possible by visiting www.militarychildcare.com, create and account and add your child(ren) to the waitlist.
Child and Youth Program (CYP)
Child and Youth Program (CYP) encompasses all aspects of childcare. Providing high quality developmental and recreational programs for children and youth, ages 6 weeks through 5th grade. Including: center-based full day care, before and after school programming and summer camp programs. Our Program cares for DLA Families. Child care services and youth programs are available on Defense Distribution Center Susquehanna.
The Susquehanna Child and Youth Program (CYP) is a COA Accredited program and childcare center. All programs are designed to enrich your child’s social, cognitive, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth and development. Our staff works in partnership with parents to meet each individual child’s needs in a safe and nurturing environment built on trust and respect. The comprehensive, research-informed curriculum, The Early Learning Matters (ELM) is a program to support the optimal learning and development of children from birth to five years of age. The curriculum promotes skills linked to school readiness and life success with the best practices available.
Today’s CYP, deemed a “model for the nation” by Presidential acclaim, continue to operate on these cornerstones:
Forms and Regulations
Mission Statement
DLA Susquehanna Child & Youth Program (CYP) supports military readiness by contributing to the wellbeing of families with children through quality, affordable childcare in center-based settings. All programs are developmentally appropriate and designed to provide for the social, emotional, physical, intellectual and cognitive growth of children regardless of age. Our goal is to reduce the conflict between parental responsibility and mission requirements. CYP is offered as a supplement to, not substitute for, the family as the primary agent for the care and development of the child.
Program Descriptions
Information & Forms
Families requesting childcare services meet with Administration to discuss their specific needs and available program options. Families must provide:
- Completed registration package
- Signed fee policy
- Power of attorney (if military sponsor is deployed)
- Family care plan, if single (parent) or dual military
- Up to date shot record
- Health assessment
- LES/pay stubs or college schedule reflecting total family income
- Two local escort/emergency contacts
NOTES: Either parent may register child(ren), however, SPONSOR must sign forms to complete registration.
Admission Requirements
All parents must complete an enrollment package and provide a copy of their child’s immunization record and current health assessment in order to register their child in any CYP. If the sponsor is divorced or separated, a copy of the legal documentation supporting this status must be provided at the time of registration. Single active duty military and dual active duty military parents must furnish a copy of their individual Family Care Plan at the time of registration. A Special Power of Attorney may be provided for families with deployed service members.
Re-registration / Annual Updates
Re-registration/Annual Updates require all previously submitted information to be verified for accuracy, updated (as needed), initialed and dated by either the spouse or the sponsor. Updated shot records, annual health assessments, and new USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program forms are required.
Disenrollment
We respect a parent’s right to disenroll their child from any CYP. A 30 day written notification is required. We reserve the right to cancel enrollment of a child within the program when a parent does not adhere to policies, including failure to pay user fees. Further, if we cannot meet the individual needs of a child within the group care; we reserve the right to withdraw your child.
CYP uses the Early Learning Matters (ELM) curriculum to support children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. This research-informed curriculum builds skills in an age-appropriate sequence while balancing teacher-guided activities with child-initiated learning.
The curriculum includes:
Infant and toddler instruction: 25 two-week learning blocks that focus on communication and language, cognitive development, self-regulation, social-emotional development, and physical health.
Preschool instruction: 50 weeks of learning in language and literacy, mathematics, creative arts, social studies, science, self-regulation, social-emotional development, and physical health.
Daily instruction: Four 15-minute instructional periods for preschool children.
We design classrooms for each child’s age, development, and learning style. Classrooms include multicultural, non-sexist toys, equipment, and activities that promote exploration and interaction.
Teachers guide children through learning centers and develop plans around their interests and goals. Learning centers include science, blocks, music, art, books, tabletop toys, sand and water tables, dramatic play, and, in some age groups, computers.
Child Care Aware: Child Care Aware provides comprehensive, nationwide child care resources and information for parents and caregivers.
HealthyChildren.org: Operated by the American Academy of Pediatrics, this site provides information on ages and stages, child safety, family life, healthy living and health issues, child and adolescent development, etc.
ZERO TO THREE: ZERO TO THREE is a national, nonprofit organization that informs, trains, and supports professionals, policymakers, and parents in their efforts to improve the lives of infants and toddlers.
The Child & Youth Programs utilize the Remind app for providing information. Information includes programs offered, special activities/events, hours of operation, etc., within all of our programs. This service also serves as a notification system during times that programs are closed or delayed due to emergencies or adverse weather.
If you would like to receive Remind messages, please contact the front desk at 717-770-7360 to sign up.
Whether you are currently stationed here or getting ready to move to Defense Distribution Center Susquehanna, finding and requesting placement for a summer camp program has never been easier, thanks to MilitaryChildCare.com.
To search for summer camps, simply create or log on to your existing MilitaryChildCare.com account, and conduct an Advanced Search for “School Age Care” programs. The results will include the Summer Camp options that are available across all Military Services within the search radius you have indicated. You may conduct camp searches from any location and at any time of day, and you may submit unlimited summer camp requests.
Once you have selected which camps you prefer on the MilitaryChildCare.com website, you will automatically be placed on waitlists for those camps and receive routine notifications about your status. At any time, you can log on to your MilitaryChildCare.com account and make changes to your family profile or your camp requests.
To learn more or to begin the summer camp request process, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. For general questions about Susquehanna’s summer camps, please contact CYP at 717-770-7360.
Nutritious meal and snacks are an important part of your child’s day. All food served within the CYP meet the standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture Child and Adult Care Food Program. Food from home may not be brought to the center. Children requiring a special diet for medical or religious reasons must present a written statement signed by a physician so substitutions can be provided.
Family Style Dining
Each classroom uses family-style dining. Caregivers sit and eat with the children to encourage social interaction and healthy eating habits. Children may sample all foods, but we never force them to eat. Children also help set the tables, serve meals, and clean up afterward.
Food Allergies
Child Nutrition Regulation 7 CFR 226.20(h) of the Child and Adult Care Food Program states: “Substitutions because of medical needs shall be made only when supported by a statement from a recognized medical authority which includes recommended alternate foods.” Parents must provide a doctor’s statement identifying their child’s food allergy and recommended substitutions, including the portion size and frequency for each substitution. After receiving this information, the center may be able to provide alternate foods for the child.
The center will hold a MIAT for children with special dietary needs. Children with allergies will receive a red placemat to use while at the CYP. The placemat alerts caregivers that the child has an allergy and provides an additional safeguard to help prevent the child from receiving foods that may cause an allergic reaction.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
USDA Nondiscrimination Statement
For FNS nutrition assistance programs, State or local agencies, and their subrecipients, must post the following Nondiscrimination Statement: In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: How to File a Complaint, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
- Mail:
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 - Fax: (202) 690-7442; or
- Email: [email protected].
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
We believe that involving parents in activities is important for both you and your child. When parents are involved in the program, it strengthens the continuity between a child’s experiences at home and the program. There are a variety of ways you can become involved in the Center.
Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)
Do you have a child registered with Child and Youth Program (CYP)? If so, we need your input! We have a committee made up of parent representatives from all military ranks and civilian support personnel that provide recommendations to program staff and the Command for improving services and program operations. This Committee also helps with special events scheduled for the Program.
The purpose of the PAC Meeting is to allow families the opportunity to voice their ideas about current and future programing for CYP; enhancing communication directly between CYP managers and local CYP patrons. We can cover a variety of topics, including policies, procedures, programming, and more.
CYP holds Parent Advisory Committee meetings quarterly at Building 255 on J Avenue. Registration is not required. Interested patrons may attend at any time. Contact our center for more information or to learn how you can get involved.
Parent Participation Program
Parents can participate in our program in many ways. When you enroll your child, please visit the center for an orientation and tour of the facility and programs. You can also participate in conferences, classroom visits, volunteer opportunities, special events and projects, and daily communication with your child’s caregiver. We also strive to involve parents by offering them the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of child development and parenting skills through resources such as lending library, in-service training, parent seminars, and other community activities.
The Child Development Center (CDC) has an “Open Door” policy, thus parents may come and visit at any time during operating hours.
Research shows that when parents actively participate in their children’s care and education, they directly support their educational success. We value strong partnerships with parents and welcome your involvement.
The CDC offers a variety of ways in which parents can become involved. If you don’t find anything on the list that interests you, see a member of management or your child’s teacher for additional suggestions.
- Read a book to your child’s class or record books on tape.
- Volunteer in the classroom. Note: Speak with the CDC Director to learn how you can participate in the classroom, either occasionally or on a regular basis. There are training requirements for this type of participation.
- Help create a display or bulletin board.
- Make home-made games for the children to use during rest time when they aren’t feeling sleepy.
- Attend parent education activities.
- Assist during special events such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Volunteer Appreciation, and other holiday activities.
- Accompany your child’s class on a nature walk or visit to the installation’s fire station.
- Share your occupation, hobby, or special talent with a group of children.
- Join your child for lunch or snack and learn about “Family Style” dining in the center setting.
- Become a part of the Parent Advisory Council (PAC), a group that meets periodically with the CDC Director and Child & Youth Program (CYP) Coordinator to discuss center updates, staffing changes, special events, etc.
If you would like to receive details on how to become a part of this important group, please let us know.
The Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA) is a huge part of military youth centers. In 1991 BGCA partnered with the Department of Defense to offer military children services, free memberships, and access to various activities. BGCA’s mission statement is to take children who need them most and offer them the Five Key Elements for Positive Youth Development, High Yield activities, Targeted Programs, and regular attendance. The outcome is for youth to graduate from high school on time, have a plan for post high school, good character and citizenship and a healthy lifestyle. BGCA offers numerous content area curriculums for our use. Their biggest one is My. Future, which pairs computer-based learning with hands on activities. We use DIY STEM, Triple Play, and the Arts on a regular basis.
For more details of the Boys and Girls Club programming offered through CYP, visit www.bgca.org.
1. How do I register my child for child care on a different installation than my home installation?
To add your child to the wait list, please visit MilitaryChildCare.com or call the Child and Youth Program (CYP) at 717-770-7360.
Whether you are currently stationed here or getting ready to move to New Cumberland, finding and requesting placement for childcare and summer camp activities has never been easier, thanks to MilitaryChildCare.com. Whether you’re a soon-to-be, first-time parent or a veteran parent to school age children, finding the right child care for your family can seem like a daunting task.
MilitaryChildCare.com is a Department of Defense website for DoD Military and Civilian families seeking child care. The single online gateway provides access to comprehensive information on military-operated and child care options across all Services. It enables families to search for and request care, manage their requests, and update their profile online, making it easier for families to find the child care they need.
If you have general or technical questions about the site, call the MCC Help Desk toll-free at 1-855-696-2934. Or, for more information, please contact CYP at 717-770-7360.
2. How do I register my child with DLA Susquehanna CYP for a Summer Camp Program?
Whether you are currently stationed here or getting ready to move to New Cumberland , finding and requesting placement for a summer camp program has never been easier, thanks to MilitaryChildCare.com.
To search for summer camps, simply create or log on to your existing MilitaryChildCare.com account, and conduct an Advanced Search for “School Age Care” programs. The results will include the Summer Camp options that are available across all Military Services within the search radius you have indicated. You may conduct camp searches from any location and at any time of day, and you may submit unlimited summer camp requests.
After you select your preferred camps on MilitaryChildCare.com, the website adds you to each camp’s waitlist and sends you regular updates about your status. At any time, you can log on to your MilitaryChildCare.com account and make changes to your family profile or your camp requests.
To learn more or to begin the summer camp request process, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. For general questions about Susquehanna’s summer camps, please contact CYP at 717-770-7360.
3. Is childcare available only on post?
Yes, child care through CYP currently is only provided on post in the Child Development Center (CDC) and School Age Services (SAS) located on Defense Distribution Center Susquehanna.
4. I am expecting a baby in a few months and I’m told that the waitlist is very long. What advice can you give me?
Families should go to MilitaryChildCare.com and create an account. Families will have the opportunity to select childcare options from all DoD childcare programs.
We recognize that infant care is in high demand and waitlists can be long. We recommend putting your name on multiple lists so that you may increase your chances for a space.
5. How much do the different programs cost?
All child care program fees are based on Total Family Income calculated during the registration process. Each school year the Higher Headquarters releases a new fee chart to reflect any changes in fees. For more information or to obtain a current fee chart please contact CYP at 717-770-7360.
6. My child is on medication; can he/she bring the medication with him/her to school?
It depends on the medication. Some medications need to be specifically approved and some are not allowed (such as over-the-counter medications), while rescue medications must be accompanied by a Medical Action Plan. But don’t worry, at the time of registration all parents complete a Health Screening Tool and if necessary we will begin the Multi-Disciplinary Inclusion Action Team process to determine what accommodations your child will require while using CYP.
7. What happens if there is an unplanned school closure?
Whenever schools close, CYP will make every effort to provide child care for registered CYP children. However, staffing levels may require CYP programs to cancel services or operate with limited availability. If inclement weather delays school opening, the Child Development Center and School Age Services may open to provide assistance, provided they comply with the DLA Susquehanna Inclement Weather Policy. Additionally, The Installation Commander’s executive decision will determine if road conditions are suitable or not which could result in an installation-wide delay and/or closure. Prior to making the commute, please utilize the DDSP Adverse Weather Line for Installation closures and delay updates:
717-770-2866 (Local Calling Area)
1-877-639-2012 (Outside Local Area Code)
717-770-6140 (TDD – Hearing Impaired)
1-800-413-0756 (TDD Toll Free)
717-605-2000 (Mechanicsburg Employees Only)
1-888-427-6001 (Toll Free Mechanicsburg)