Raising a child in Hershey, PA: Education, Healthcare, and Community

Discovering Hershey, PA: A Sweet Place to Raise a Family

Known as "The Sweetest Place on Earth," Hershey, Pennsylvania, has built its reputation on chocolate. But there's much more to this charming city than tasty treats, especially for families with children. Nestled in the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania, Hershey offers a small-town feel with plenty of amenities for parents and kids alike. Let's dive into what makes Hershey an appealing — and sometimes challenging — place to raise a family.

Hershey’s strong sense of community, excellent healthcare, and rich outdoor spaces create a nurturing environment for any child to grow up in. However, like any city, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. As we explore Hershey’s educational opportunities, family-friendly attractions, housing market, and more, you'll get a comprehensive understanding of whether it's the right fit for your family.

"Hershey, PA, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban conveniences, making it an appealing destination for families with young children."

Education Opportunities

In Hershey, access to quality education is one of the city’s standout features. From early childhood education to higher learning, the city has it covered. Daycares and preschools such as The Goddard School and KinderCare Learning Center provide excellent early childhood programs. For older children, the Derry Township School District is known for its high academic standards and excellent extracurricular activities.

Furthermore, Hershey isn’t far from some of Pennsylvania’s top universities, including Penn State Harrisburg and Lebanon Valley College, offering a range of educational opportunities as children grow.

Healthcare Services

Parents can breathe easy knowing that Hershey is home to the renowned Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This state-of-the-art facility boasts excellent pediatric care, ensuring that children receive top-notch medical attention. Specialized health services, such as pediatric dentistry and speech therapy, are readily available.

Additionally, the medical center houses the Penn State Children's Hospital, which provides comprehensive healthcare services specifically tailored for children, ranging from routine check-ups to specialized treatments.

Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted by Hershey's wide range of parks and playgrounds. Hersheypark stands out as a premier family destination, featuring rides, attractions, and an expansive water park. For those looking for a more relaxed outing, the Hershey Gardens offers beautiful scenery and interactive attractions like the Butterfly Atrium that captivate children of all ages.

Moreover, Cocoa Castle, a castle-themed playground in the nearby township of Hershey, is a local favorite where children can climb, slide, and explore to their hearts’ content.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Hershey's array of family-friendly attractions ensures that there's always something interesting to do. The Hershey Story Museum provides an engaging way for children to learn about the town's history and its chocolate-making heritage. Families can also enjoy a day at ZooAmerica, a walk-through zoo that offers close encounters with native North American animals.

The Giant Center hosts a diverse lineup of family-friendly events, from Hershey Bears hockey games to big-name concerts and ice shows, ensuring a wide range of entertainment options throughout the year.

Housing and Cost of Living

Hershey offers an array of housing options suitable for families, ranging from single-family homes to modern apartments. While the cost of living is higher than in some neighboring areas, the benefits — such as lower crime rates and excellent amenities — often outweigh the costs.

The nearby neighborhoods of Palmyra and Hummelstown provide alternative housing options that can be more affordable while still offering easy access to Hershey’s amenities.

Public Transportation

Navigating Hershey with a child is fairly straightforward, thanks to the efficient public transportation options available. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) offers bus services around Hershey and to nearby cities like Harrisburg, making it convenient for families to travel for work or leisure.

However, as a smaller city, public transportation is less frequent than in larger metropolitan areas, so many families opt to have a car for added convenience.

Safety and Security

Hershey prides itself on being a safe community, with consistently low crime rates. Neighborhoods are well-monitored, and community policing efforts help to ensure that families feel secure. Emergency services are robust, with quick response times thanks to the proximity of the Hershey Medical Center.

Community Support

One of Hershey's strongest attributes is its tight-knit community. Parent groups and support networks, such as those organized by the MOMS Club of Hershey, offer invaluable support for new and existing families. Community events, including the popular Hersheypark in the Dark and Sweet Lights, provide fun ways to engage with the community throughout the year.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. High-quality educational opportunities.
2. Excellent pediatric healthcare services.
3. Wide range of outdoor recreational spaces.
4. Safe and secure neighborhoods.
5. Strong sense of community and support networks.

Cons:

1. Higher cost of living compared to neighboring areas.
2. Limited public transportation options.
3. Seasonal tourist influx can lead to crowding.
4. Smaller town, which may lack some big-city amenities.
5. Limited diversity in entertainment options compared to larger cities.

In conclusion,

Hershey, PA, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban conveniences, making it an appealing destination for families with young children. From top-notch educational facilities to excellent healthcare and plenty of family-friendly attractions, the advantages are plentiful. However, families should also consider factors like the higher cost of living and limited public transportation options. Overall, Hershey's community-centric ethos and robust amenities make it a delightful place to raise a family, ensuring that both parents and children can thrive in a nurturing and safe environment.