Between laying a foundation of learning and growth in infants to age 12 – and providing an invaluable service to associates across Spartanburg Regional – the Ida Thompson Child Development Program is excited to celebrate its 50th year in operation. 

Families who have enrolled in the program over the years are celebrating an anniversary by sharing testimonies and photos of their experiences. 

The Child Development Program offers Spartanburg Regional associates a high-quality childcare and early education environment to meet their childcare needs and invest in their children from an early age. 

This valuable resource supports associates, enhances the hospital's appeal in recruiting efforts, creates a positive work culture and makes Spartanburg Regional an employer of choice. 

"As we celebrate this milestone, we also want to renew our commitment to continue providing exceptional care and education for the next generation," said Darla Pennington, Spartanburg Regional's liaison to the program. 

Results from a 2024 parent survey showed that parents gave a 99% overall satisfaction rating in the care and education their children receive. 

The survey also revealed: 

• A 95% satisfaction with health and safety measures. 
• A 100% satisfaction with the comprehensive developmental experiences. 
• A 98% satisfaction with the skills and knowledge children receive to help them succeed. 

A history of service 

An associate survey in 1971 first revealed a genuine and present need for childcare across the Spartanburg Regional system. 

Then, in 1974, that need was met when the Child Development Program opened its doors under the direction of Patricia C. Hollon. Now, Bright Horizons, a third-party provider, operates the program and works under the direction of Spartanburg Regional. Bright Horizons is a national company that partners with employers to give working families the support they need. 

The program thrives today because of the hard work, dedication and commitment of Spartanburg Regional associates, families, staff and community members. 

Challenges throughout the years, such as a flood in 1987 and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, highlighted how the commitment of those involved shone in the face of adversity to ensure that associates still had a steady learning environment for their children. 

"We have been able to withstand challenges and adapt to educational changes like hands-on learning, new methodologies and new research throughout the decades," Pennington said. "We have witnessed generations grow, develop and achieve their potential, thanks to the care and education they received here." 

The program's 50-year mark represents layers of commitment and dedication. 

The anniversary represents:  

• A demonstration of support to countless families by caring for their children in a clean, safe environment close to work. 
• An opportunity to celebrate the positive contributions made to the growth and development of these children. 
• A testament to the hard work and dedication of the educators, staff and supporters.   

A gift to families 

As a retention tool, the program has attracted top talent to the healthcare system and made it easier for parents to balance their work-life responsibilities. 

"Some days I have to be at work at six," says Lainey Donnan, a surgical technician at SRHS, who likes being able to drop off her son and still get to work on time. "If I get held up at work or if I'm on call, I know he has a place to be that is safe for him, that they have extended hours where most daycares you have to pick up by five." 

The program operates in a building at the Spartanburg Medical Center campus and is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Through the years, families have known convenient and quality care environment close to their workplace. This convenience has reduced commute times for associates and reduced the stresses of pick-up and drop-off procedures. 

"The center also creates a sense of community among associates with opportunities to network and share experiences," Pennington said. 

Ysabel Reid, a nursing clinical educator, has had two daughters in the Child Development Program and said the support has brought her such peace of mind. 

“Not only are the hours conducive for clinical staff, but their location is also convenient and feels like a family environment," Reid said. “I sincerely appreciate that the staff have cared for my kids as if they were their own. The life skills and education they've received have helped them transition independently and successfully into their school settings and I could not be more grateful.”