STEPPING STONES DAYCARE AND PS INC
ALTOONA, PA·Child Care CenterLicensed
Contact information
Address201 E WALTON AVE, ALTOONA, PA, 16602
CountyBlair
Phone(814) 946-0180
Operating details
Capacity37
SubsidiesY
License dateAugust 11, 2025
Compliance snapshot
Last inspection: 5/27/2026 · Counts cover the full published inspection history; search results show the past 2 years.
- High0
- Medium-High16
- Medium7
- Medium-Low2
- Low0
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Location
Using Address for Location
Exact coordinates aren't available, but you can view this location at:
201 E WALTON AVE, ALTOONA, PA, 16602, ALTOONA, PA 16602
Questions to ask on a tour
Chosen for this facility's inspection history and profile — bring them along on your visit.
- This facility has health or sanitation findings on its state record - ask about their current cleaning, diapering, and handwashing procedures
- This facility has staffing or training findings on its state record - ask about background checks, required training completion, and staff turnover
- Ask how they keep enrollment, immunization, and emergency-contact records current - their state findings include documentation lapses
- They accept child care subsidies - ask what the enrollment process looks like and whether there is a waitlist for subsidized spots
Violation summary
Last 2 years · Last inspection: 5/27/2026
- High0
- Medium-High15
- Medium6
- Medium-Low2
- Low0
2026
- Medium risk5/27/2026
Comply with CPSL (3270.32(a))
The files for staff persons #1 and #5 were observed to lack documentation of completing mandated reporter training within the last 60 months. This was evidenced by the most recent mandated reporter training certificate in the file for staff person #1 was dated 04-08-21, and staff person #5's was dated 04-29-21. Requirement: The operator shall comply with the CPSL and with Chapter 3490 (relating to protective services). Facility Person #1 -- may not work in a child care position at the facility until the required training certificate is on file. Correction: Staff persons #1 and #5 will have them completed as soon as possible and will be completed by 7/31/26. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/31/2026 - Medium risk5/27/2026
Contaminated trash in closed plastic-lined receptacle (3270.67(d))
The facility was observed to have a trash can used to discard trash that has been contaminated by human secretions or excrement in the baby's room and in the bathroom that lacked lids. Requirement: Trash that has been contaminated by human secretions or excrement shall be contained in closed, plastic-lined receptacles. Correction: I will purchase new or will make sure trash cans have lids Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/31/2026 - Medium risk5/27/2026
Clean and good repair (3270.102(a))
The facility was observed to have two broken toys, a yellow angelfish rocker and a kid's climber with rock wall were cracked. Requirement: Toys, play equipment and other indoor and outdoor equipment used by the children shall be clean, in good repair and free from rough edges, sharp corners, pinch and crush points, splinters and exposed bolts. Correction: Yellow angelfish rocker was removed from the play yard, and the rock wall climber was repaired so it is free from rough edges, sharp corners, pinch and crush points. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 6/20/2026 - Medium risk5/27/2026
Health information/Initial and subsequent health reports (3270.131(a)/3270.182(1))
The file for child #4 was observed to lack an initial health report no later than 60 days following the first day of attendance at the facility. Requirement: The operator shall require the parent of an enrolled child, including a child, a foster child and a relative of an operator or a facility person, to provide an initial health report no later than 60 days following the first day of attendance at the facility. A child's record shall contain initial and subsequent health reports. Correction: I gave the father another form for him to get completed as soon as possible. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/24/2026 - Medium risk5/27/2026
Two written references (3270.192(5))
The file for staff person #4 was observed to lack two written, nonfamily references. Requirement: A facility person's record shall include two written, nonfamily references from individuals attesting to the person's suitability to serve as a facility person. Correction: Staff person #4 is no longer employed at Stepping Stones due to taking a job at the hospital. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 6/1/2026 - Medium-Low risk5/27/2026
Bottles labeled (3270.166(4))
The facility was observed to have infant bottles that lacked a label with the child's name. Requirement: Disposable nursers and bottles shall be labeled with the child's name. Correction: Bottles are labeled with the children's name on them. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 6/1/2026 - Medium-High riskStandard 125/27/2026
12 months prior to service and every 24 months thereafter (3270.151(a))
The file for staff person #2 was observed to lack a health assessment that was obtained within the last 24 months. This was evidenced by the most recent health assessment present in staff person #2's file was dated 02/28/24. Requirement: A facility person providing direct care who comes into contact with the children or who works with food preparation shall have a health assessment conducted within 12 months prior to providing initial service in a child care setting and every 24 months thereafter. A health assessment is valid for 24 months following the date of signature, if the person does not contract a communicable disease or develop a medical problem. Correction: Staff person #2 obtained a physical on 6/9/26. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 6/9/2026 - Medium-High risk5/27/2026
Original container (3270.133(1))
The facility was observed to have a medication for child #5 that was not in an original container. Requirement: A prescription or nonprescription medication may be accepted only in an original container. The medication shall remain in the container in which it was received. Correction: I returned the inhaler to parent and told her if and when it needed to return it must be in the original box with prescription label on the box and must be a current date. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 5/29/2026 - Medium-High risk5/27/2026
ACIP recommended immunization record (3270.131(e))
The file for child #4 was observed to lack written verification from a physician, physician's assistant, CRNP, the Department of Health or a local health department of the dates (month, day and year) the child was administered immunizations in accordance with the recommendations of the ACIP. Requirement: The facility may not accept or retain an infant 2 months of age or older, a toddler or a preschool child at the facility for more than 60 days following the first day of attendance at the facility unless the parent provides written verification from a physician, physician's assistant, CRNP, the Department of Health or a local health department of the dates (month, day and year) the child was administered immunizations in accordance with the recommendations of the ACIP. Correction: I gave father another form to get completed ASAP. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/24/2026 - Medium-High risk5/27/2026
Parent home/work address, phone (3270.124(b)(3))
The file for child #3 was observed to contain an emergency contact form that lacked the work addresses and telephone numbers of the enrolling parent Requirement: Emergency contact information must include the home and work addresses and telephone numbers of the enrolling parent. Correction: The addresses and phone numbers for the father's work are his home address and phone number as he is self-employed and works out of town all week. This information has been added and will be kept there. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 5/29/2026 - Medium-High risk5/27/2026
Services proceeded (3270.123(a)(3))
The files for children #1, #2 and #3 were observed to lack the Department's approved form (Child Service Report) to provide information to the family about the child's growth and development in the context of the services being provided. Requirement: The services to be provided to the family and the child, including the Department's approved form to provide information to the family about the child's growth and development in the context of the services being provided. The operator shall complete and update the form and provide a copy to the family in accordance with the updates regarding emergency contact information in § 3270.124(f) (relating to emergency contact information). Correction: I completed Child Service Reports for children #1, #2 and #3. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 5/29/2026
2025
- Medium-High risk11/25/2025
Health and Safety Training - Pediatric First Aid and CPR (3270.31(f)(10))
The file for staff person #4 was observed to lack documentation of acquiring a certificate of competence in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) within 90 days of hire. Requirement: Staff persons shall complete professional development in the topic of pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation within 90 days of hire. Correction: Staff person #4 Was trained pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation on 12/1/2025. Inspection: Allocated Unannounced Monitoring. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 12/1/2025 - Medium-High risk11/25/2025
Age and Training (3270.31(e)(4)(i))
The files for staff persons #1, #2, #3, were observed to lack documentation of renewing their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. As evidenced by a certificate dated 05/03/2022 in the file for staff #1, a certificate dated 11/6/2025 in the file of staff person #2, and a certificate dated 04/25/2023 in the file for staff person #3. Requirement: Competence is the completion of training by a professional in the field of first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). All staff persons shall renew their certification in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on or before the expiration of the most current certification. Correction: Staff persons #1, #2, and #3 plus all other staff were trained in pediatric first aid and pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation on 12/1/2025. Inspection: Allocated Unannounced Monitoring. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 12/1/2025 - Medium-High risk11/25/2025
Comply with CPSL (3270.32(a))
The files for staff #3 and staff #4 were observed to lack all required clearances. This was evidenced by the file for staff person #3 containing a PA State Police Clearance dated 10/21/20 and a Pa child abuse dated 10/26/2020. The file for Staff person #4 lacked NJ state CARI (child abuse record information check) clearances. Requirement: The operator shall comply with the CPSL and with Chapter 3490 (relating to protective services). Facility Persons # 3 and #4 may not work in a child care position at the facility after 12/09/2025 if documented clearances are not on file. Correction: Staff person #3 and #4 obtained valid clearances before returning to work. Inspection: Allocated Unannounced Monitoring. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 12/18/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Written consent (3270.133(6))
The facility was observed to have a medication log signed by the parent but lacked a date of the signature. Requirement: A parent shall provide written consent for administration of medication or a special diet. Correction: Had parent sign and date a new form. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/21/2025 - Medium risk5/29/2025
Age and Training (3270.31(e))
The files for staff persons #1, #2, #3, #4 and #5 were observed to lack documentation of obtaining an annual minimum of 12 clock hours of child care training Requirement: A staff person shall obtain an annual minimum of 12 clock hours of child care training. Correction: We did complete the 6-hour course with ELRC that was held, at the convention center and I am rescheduling our other 6 hours that had to be canceled due to the death of my husband. All staff will have 24 hours total training when combining 2024 and 2025. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Measurement and use of indoor child care space (3270.61)
Staff persons were observed over room capacity in the toddler room which is measured for 5 children. This was evidenced by staff caring for 7 childen in the toddler room. Staff person #1 was observed caring for 5 1-year-olds in the Toddler room along with Staff person #6 who was observed caring for 1 infant and 1 older toddler in the toddler room. Requirement: Measurement and use of inodoor child care space. Correction: Will have staff care for the correct # of children following proper measurement of childcare spaces. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 7/21/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Services proceeded (3270.123(a)(3))
The files for children #1, #2, #3, and #4 were observed to lack documentation of providing the family with the Department's approved form (Child Service Report) to provide information to the family about the child's growth and development in the context of the services being provided. Requirement: The services to be provided to the family and the child, including the Department's approved form to provide information to the family about the child's growth and development in the context of the services being provided. The operator shall complete and update the form and provide a copy to the family in accordance with the updates regarding emergency contact information in § 3270.124(f) (relating to emergency contact information). Correction: Child Service reports will be completed and place in children's files. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025 - Medium-Low risk5/29/2025
High Chairs (3270.105)
The facility was observed to have a Highchair with a wide base but lacked a T-shaped safety strap. This was evidenced by staff explaining the strap was sent to laundry but hasn't yet returned. Requirement: High chairs shall have a wide base and a T-shaped safety strap. Correction: There was a safety strap placed in highchair that was missing one. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 5/30/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Building Surfaces (3270.76)
The facility's Preschool room was observed to have a carpeted toe kick that was torn and frayed along the top. Requirement: Floors, walls, ceilings and other surfaces, including the facility's outdoor play space surfaces shall be kept clean, in good repair and free from visible hazards. Correction: Will make sure this is no longer torn or frayed by either fixing or replacing. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Letter to parents (3270.27(e))
The facility was observed to be providing a letter explaining the emergency procedures to the parent of each enrolled child, however, this letter was observed to lack information regarding accommodations for infants, toddlers, children with disabilities and children with chronic medical conditions. Requirement: The operator shall provide to the parent of each enrolled child a letter explaining the emergency procedures. The operator shall also provide to the parent of each enrolled child a letter explaining any subsequent update to the plan. Correction: I will add to the emergency plan the accommodations for infants toddlers and children with disabilities and chronic medical conditions. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Plan posted (3270.27(d))
The facility was observed to lack a posting of the emergency plan in the facility at a conspicuous location Requirement: The operator shall post the emergency plan in the facility at a conspicuous location. Correction: I will post and place the emergency plan in a conspicuous location the facility at all times. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025 - Medium-High risk5/29/2025
Pertinent Laws & Regulations/General Health and Safety (3270.14/3270.21)
The facility was observed to lack a written policy that addresses Shaken Baby Syndrome and Abusive Head Trauma. Requirement: A facility shall be operated in conformity with applicable Federal and State laws and regulations.State agencies whose regulations may relate to the operation of a facility include the Department of Environmental Resources, the Department of Labor and Industry, the Department of Health, the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation. Conditions at the facility may not pose a threat to the health or safety of the children. Correction: I will have a written policy written and posted for shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma. As I will hand out to all staff personal. Inspection: Renewal. Source: PA DHS COMPASS provider search (compass.dhs.pa.gov).
Corrected 8/1/2025
Showing the 25 most recent of 68 records on file; the full history loads with the interactive view.
Safety & Compliance Analysis
This daycare has multiple recorded violations. Review the details to make an informed decision.
(Past 6 Months)
Parent Recommendations
Based on the violation data, here are some recommendations:
- Review the detailed violations listed above.
- Ask the daycare about their response to these violations.
- Look at the correction status to see how quickly issues were addressed.
- Schedule a visit during regular hours to observe daily operations.
Note: This analysis is based on publicly available violation data and is intended as a tool to help parents make informed decisions. Always visit a daycare in person and ask specific questions about areas of concern.
Estimated monthly cost
$860/month
This is a modeled estimate — based on location, ages served, and program data — not the provider's actual tuition. Real prices vary by age group and services. Contact the daycare for current rates, fees, and availability.
Typical prices in Pennsylvania run about $1,099/month for infant care at a center (federal median) — see daycare costs in Pennsylvania by age group.
About this daycare
- Location: ALTOONA, Blair County
- Capacity: 37
- Type: Child Care Center
- Years in operation: 1
What parents actually pay
No parent-reported prices yet. If your child attends here, you can be the first to add one.
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