During the winter of 2019, I, Megan McKarnin, learned that the preschool and daycare might have to relocate if the new science building passed the vote in Allen County. Once I found out that the proposal had indeed passed, I began searching for a new location. This is when I came across Harvest Baptist Church. The congregation had outgrown their facility and wanted to sell it. It seemed like the right opportunity at the right time. The building was perfect for a daycare and preschool center.

I approached my friend and local childcare owner, Hayley Westerman, to discuss the possibility of opening one together. She enthusiastically agreed, and I was ecstatic!

As we began brainstorming names for the center, Hayley suggested incorporating “Munchkinland.” I was thrilled because the name holds a special place in my heart; it was my mom Teresa Cook’s preschool name, and I wanted to honor her by keeping it. Thus, we decided on “Munchkinland and More.” We are excited to open our daycare center and create a safe, fun, loving, and educational environment for children of all ages. We can’t wait to meet all the little faces in our new facility.

At the beginning of 2025, I purchased Hayley’s share to become the sole owner and operator. I am incredibly thankful for the 5 1/2 years we spent working together, and I look forward to seeing where we can take the center in the future.

Owners Megan and Derrek McKarnin

Welcome to Munchkinland and More. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Megan McKarnin (Cook), and I am the owner and director of Munchkinland. I assumed ownership of the preschool in the winter of 2012 following the passing of my mother, Teresa Cook, who bravely fought breast cancer for many years. My mother significantly influenced my decision to enter this field; she had a profound love for her work and often described it as one of the most rewarding professions.

I am the daughter of Jeff and the late Teresa Cook. My father is a licensed electrician and is employed by Hoffmeier Electric in Iola. My family raised my brother and me in Iola, while my sister was raised in Pittsburg, Kansas. Since taking over the preschool, various aspects of my personal life have evolved. I married Derrek McKarnin in the summer of 2014 and have since welcomed two children: Parker Ray in 2016 and Tylen Teresa in 2018. Experiencing the love for one’s children, as everyone remarked, has brought us immense joy; we cherish watching them grow and learn each day.

Derrek is currently employed at Southern Star in Welda after completing his undergraduate degree at Pittsburg State University. I earned my director’s license in July 2024 and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education from Wichita State University in December 2024. In January 2025, I purchased my business partner’s share and became the sole owner and operator of Munchkinland and More.