A 1 Services

Program Type
Family Child Care

Basics

Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Snacks
2 per day
Potty Training
Not Required
Language(s) Supported
English
Pay Schedules
Monthly and Weekly
Subsidized Care
Accepted
Philosophy
Play-based

Our Teachers

At A 1 Services Childcare Program, our dedicated director brings over five years of experience in early childhood education, including teaching Head Start in Albany, NY. She has also operated a home daycare and completed extensive training in health, safety, and child development.

As a substitute teacher, she has worked with children of all abilities, including those with individualized needs. Her passion for early learning shines through her patience, dedication, and commitment to preparing each child for their next stage of growth—both personally and academically. She believes in creating a nurturing, supportive environment where every child can thrive.

Philosophy

At A 1 Services Childcare Program, we believe that learning should be self-directed, hands-on, and rooted in real-world experiences. Our approach focuses on building strong foundational skills that prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

We create a family-style environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore at their own pace. Our emphasis on transferable learning helps children develop the confidence and adaptability needed to navigate both small and big changes in life. By fostering independence and a love for learning, we ensure that each child’s transition to the next stage is smooth, empowering, and enriching.

About our program

At A 1 Services Childcare Program in St. Louis, we are committed to providing exceptional early childhood care that nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. Our program is designed to support each child’s unique growth and development through engaging, hands-on experiences that build independence and critical thinking skills.

With a strong focus on quality education, we create an enriching environment where children explore, discover, and develop the foundational skills needed for lifelong success. Our passionate and experienced caregivers are dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and stimulating atmosphere where every child can flourish. At A 1 Services, we don’t just watch children—we invest in their futures, ensuring they receive the best start possible.

Rhythm of the Day

  • 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
    Arrival & Free Play (Parents, please ensure all outside food is discarded before drop-off.)
  • 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM
    Breakfast
  • 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
    Circle Time (Songs, Stories & Daily Learning Focus)
  • 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
    Hands-On Learning & Exploration
  • 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
    Morning Snack
  • 10:15 AM – 11:00 AM
    Gross Motor Play (Indoor/Outdoor)
  • 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
    Small Group Learning & Creative Play
  • 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    Lunch
  • 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
    Wind Down & Storytime
  • 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
    Nap/Quiet Time (Please provide a change of clothes in case of accidents.)
  • 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
    Wake-Up & Afternoon Snack
  • 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Structured Activities (Arts, Music, Sensory Play)
  • 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM
    Small Group Learning & Problem-Solving
  • 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
    Gross Motor Play (Indoor/Outdoor)
  • 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
    Evening Snack & Wind Down
  • 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
    Free Play & Pick-Up

2025 Closures

  • May 1
    CLOSED
  • July 4
    Holiday Break
  • July 14-18
    Summer Break
  • August 10-14
    Staff Professional Development Training
  • September 1
    Labor Day
  • October 31
    Early Dismissal 3 pm
  • November 26-27
    Thanksgiving Break
  • December 22-26
    Holiday Break
  • January 1-2
    New Year

Admissions

We welcome all families and parents to visit prior to enrolling your little. We conduct a personal interview with the parents/caregiver regarding child’s individual needs is mandatory. Each handbook contract will require a (4 week) probationary period, and both parties evaluate if the program is the best fit for the program/child/family. Below is a list of required forms that need to be completed prior to attendance:

Child Information Sheet

Birth Certificate or Passport (must verify identification of children in care)

Parent Statement of Health

Enrollment form

Parent Consent Forms (Infant Sleep Permission Form, Water Activity Permission Form, Field Trip Form, Medication, etc.)

Please contact our owner/director, Shawanda McQueen at [email protected]

Have questions about the program?
Message the Program Director directly to learn more.
Shawanda McQueen
Program Director