The Carpenter Shop Preschool and Day Care is a ministry of East Gate Fellowship, a non-denominational church in the Van Buren - Fort Smith area. Conveniently located at 5530 Alma Highway between Van Buren and Alma, we are easily accessible from both I -40 and I-540. The Carpenter Shop is dedicated to building character in today's kids. We believe in helping our children reach their fullest God-given capabilities. We have qualified staff members, who endeavor to provide the best child care in this area. Some are accredited with the CDA (Child Development Associates) certificate. We are a full service daycare, open 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. We care for children ages of birth through sixth grade. Our focus is the complete child; whether it is a hot, nutritious meal, or the nurturing, peaceful environment. Our staff is dedicated to help the children in all ways. Our student = teacher ratio is one of the lowest in Northwest Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma. We purposely staff more teachers in each classroom than the Department of Human Services requires. We serve many types of families with varying degrees of needs. We accept private pay families, as well as voucher payments from DHS. Our process for enrollment is made simple through our dedicated and caring staff. We are happy to assist your family with either form of enrollment, and can help you determine if you may qualify for DHS assistance. Our center participates in the USDA food program. Please call today if you are considering Christian day care for the most valuable possession that you have, your child.