PEA RIDGE — Too old, yet too young - that’s how some people describe the pre-teen children between the ages of 10 and 12 who feel as though they’re too old to go to day care, but who may be too young to be left home alone.
Several day care businesses in town offer after-school day care.
One program, sponsored by Mrs. Neecy’s Children’s Center, is specifically geared toward that middle-aged group.
The Hangout at Mrs. Neecy’s center, 183 Halleck Lane, has a full-size pool table, ping pong tables, foosball, air hockey and arcade basketball. There is also an X-box and PlayStation 2.
“We’ve set up learning centers so children can explore,” Littrell said. There is also a library and study area. Both teachers are trained in First Aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation.
Helen Littrell, called Neecy because her middle name is Denise and her sister called her “Neecy,” said she is concerned about a safe place for young people to hang out.
Littrell said she was a children’s pastor for 10 years before moving to Pea Ridge in 2000 from Little Rock. She said she opened the day care in 2004 and has recently expanded by opening the second center. She said she envisions the facility to be used by church youth groups in the future.
“We try to nurture the whole child - socialization - where they can feel safe and hang out.”
Littrell said she believes children as young as 7 and 8 years of age are staying alone after school. She wants to provide safe, affordable care for them.
“It’s the hardest job I’ve ever had,” Littrell said of running the day cares, adding that it’s more than just taking care of children, but working with the parents, the employees, handling the bills.
The Hangout is open during Christmas and spring break, but closed on five major holidays - Thanksgiving, Christmas, Fourth of July, Labor Day and Memorial Day. She and her husband, Rex, have three grown children and two grandchildren.
News, Pages 1 on 08/25/2010