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 I can take the center in the future.

Owners Megan and Derrek McKarnin

Welcome to Munchkinland and More! I’m Megan McKarnin, the owner and director of Munchkinland. I took over the preschool in the winter of 2012 after my mother, Teresa Cook, passed away. My mom bravely battled breast cancer for many years, and her unwavering love for her work deeply influenced my decision to pursue this field. She often described it as one of the most fulfilling professions.

I’m the daughter of Jeff and Teresa Cook. My father, a licensed electrician who worked for Hoffmeier Electric, has since retired and resides in Iola. My family raised my brother and me in Iola throughout our childhood, and I’ve chosen to stay home and raise my family here as well.

Since taking over the preschool, my personal life has undergone significant changes. In the summer of 2014, I married Derrek McKarnin, and we were blessed with two children: Parker Ray in 2016 and Tylen Teresa in 2018. The love and joy we experience with our children have brought us immense happiness, and we cherish every moment of watching them grow and learn.

Derrek currently works 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, becoming the sole owner and operator of Munchkinland and More.