JERSEY SHORE - Crossroads Child Learning Center is a Christian-based day care that was started to fill a much-needed niche in the community.
"The church wanted to branch out and expand its ministry," said Crossroads assistant director Shelbie Eshleman. "There is a need for day care."
Located at Crossroads Community Church, 1454 S. state Route 44, the day care serves infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers and older kids up to age 12.
The day care, which opened Aug. 6, has about 50 children enrolled.
But Eshleman said there is room for growth.
Crossroads can accommodate parents to meet their children's day care needs.
"Some (children) come part of the day," Eshleman said. "One child comes once a week. So we're are pretty flexible."
Crossroads Director Shannon Terry said children learn in a safe and secure environment.
Security cameras are located throughout the inside and outside of the building.
She said a goal for the younger children is to get them prepared for kindergarten and to help them with social skills.
Terry said launching the day care came after much planning.
"We prayed about it," she added.
She stressed that Crossroads is faith-based. Children learn about the Bible and pray before meals.
Crossroads teachers offer various experiences and skills in child development, Biblical studies, early childhood education, elementary education, and special education.
Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks are served daily.
More information is at www.crossroadschildlearningcenter.org or 923-7285.
