Shining Stars

Shining Stars Daycare has been a cornerstone of the Central New York community since its inception in July 1994. Under the dedicated leadership of owner and president Stella Penizotto, Shining Stars has blossomed into a trusted provider of high-quality childcare services, serving children from six weeks through twelve years of age across its three convenient locations: East Syracuse, Liverpool, and Manlius.

Our commitment to nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and social growth of each child is unwavering. We achieve this through a carefully curated curriculum and a team of passionate educators who share our philosophy of child-centered learning. At Shining Stars, we understand that children learn best through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences. Our Pinnacle Curriculum, with its monthly and weekly themes, provides a structured yet flexible framework that encourages children to discover, create, and grow.

Our Dedicated Team

One of our most significant strengths lies in our exceptional team of educators. We pride ourselves on our low teacher turnover rate, a testament to our commitment to fostering a supportive and rewarding work environment. Most of our teachers have dedicated two to eleven years to Shining Stars, building strong relationships with the children in their care and creating a sense of stability and familiarity.

Our teachers are highly qualified, with a majority holding Early Childhood and Bachelor's Degrees in Education. Furthermore, all staff members undergo fifteen hours of annual training, encompassing essential skills such as CPR and First Aid. This dedication to professional development ensures that our educators are equipped to provide the highest quality care and support.

Developmentalally Appropriate Education

Our curriculum is designed with a strong emphasis on developmental appropriateness, ensuring that each activity is tailored to the specific needs and abilities of each age group. Through an integrated approach, we weave together various learning experiences - from art and music to science exploration and dramatic play - to create a rich and engaging learning environment.

We believe in fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in every child. Our classrooms are vibrant and stimulating, filled with age-appropriate materials that encourage exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning. Our teachers act as facilitators, guiding children through their discoveries and providing support and encouragement along the way. Parent/teacher conferences are held annually, allowing us to collaborate with families and ensure that each child's individual needs are met.

Commitment to Safety and Excellence

Shining Stars Daycare is a New York State licensed business, regulated by the Office of Children & Family Services, underscoring our commitment to upholding the highest standards of care. Our unwavering dedication to safety is evident in our meticulously maintained facilities and our comprehensive staff training protocols.

Over the years, Shining Stars Daycare has earned numerous accolades, including the esteemed Child Care Program of Excellence designation, induction into the 2007 New York State Small Business Hall of Fame, and the recognition as the 2001 Onondaga County Entrepreneur of the Year. These achievements serve as a testament to our consistent commitment to excellence in childcare.