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Early Learning (0-5)

When We Play, We Grow

At the Y, we are thrilled to play a part in your child’s growth and development! Our programs are designed and run by child care experts and teams of nurturing professionals who are fueled by a deep belief in the Power of Play. 

Registration is year-round! 

Our enrollment process is available year-round! View our current age range availability across Community Hubs via this flyer. To learn more about Early Learning at the Y and register your child, click the link below!

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Early Learning at the Y Is So Much More than Child Care

Every child is raised in a unique community, culture, and family. At the Y, that individuality is not only celebrated, it’s nurtured. 

  • Infant Care (6 weeks - 14 months)

    Child care designed to nurture your little one — and you. Because we know that one schedule does not fit all. At the Y, our dedicated staff partner with parents and caregivers to best serve each unique family.
    Interest Form

  • Toddlers (15-23 months)

    Child care of, by, and for our communities. We share your values, we know your heritage, and we celebrate your children. From language and culture to community and traditions, it all comes together at the Y.
    Interest Form

  • Twos (24-35 months)

    Our accredited, play-based curriculum is designed around each unique child. We’re here to build on what you’ve already made for your child: a nurturing, supportive environment to explore and grow.
    Interest Form

  • Preschool (3-5 years)

    Strong roots. Unlimited potential. When you’ve been here as long as we have, you know anything is possible. Y Preschool prepares your child for kindergarten and builds social and emotional skills that last a lifetime.
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  • Enrichment Programs

    We offer enrichment programs to help your child unlock new passions and talents! Through a blend of play-based learning and hands-on activities, our programs ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and build essential social skills.
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  • Flexible Drop-In Child Care

    We offer flexible, drop-in options for our onsite licensed child care, designed for families who occasionally need care due to work or other commitments. Purchase a pack of 6 or 12 day passes to use as needed.
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  • Supporting Early Education in DuPage South (SEEDS)

    SEEDS supports Early Learning families by offering valuable resources and engaging sessions that foster community connections and family bonds!
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Trusting Relationships, Hands-On Care, and Fun

Our programs are designed to provide hands-on, nurturing relationships with well-trained professionals dedicated to the transformative Power of Play. Our Early Learning staff live in the neighborhood, our programming shares your values and heritage, and our focus is always on your child’s growth and development. Through these connections, youth learn, move, and have fun! 

What to Expect of Y Care 

  • Highly-qualified & Well-trained Professionals
  • Clean, Attractive & Well-equipped Learning Environments
  • Healthy & Nutritious Meals and Snacks
  • Educational Activities & Experiences Low Adult to Child Ratio
  • Developmental Screenings & Assessments 
  • Supportive Services for Children with Disabilities
  • Resources & Referrals for Social Services
  • Opportunities for Parent Involvement 
  • Programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children 

We’re Supported, You Should Be Too

The Power of Play is not reserved for those with time and resources to spare. It’s something we believe all children and all families should experience. That’s why we offer financial assistance for our Early Learning programs, with funding sources that include:  

  • Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative Grants
  • Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
  • Y scholarships, as they are available
  • Private Pay
  • Action for Children
  • Owen absolutely loves [his] class [at the Y]. Historically, Owen typically does not enjoy attending school. Since transitioning into the class, Owen wakes up excited to go to school and looks forward to seeing staff and friends. At home, he talks about his daily activities, and the time he spends with friends in class. He can now identify friends by name, which is a first. We have been truly grateful for a seamless transition into the classroom and this positive experience for Owen.
    - Christy A.
  • The other night Casey came home and taught us how to play the sticker and dice game. It felt like a special “first” for him to be able to teach us how to do something, especially for someone with a sometimes-bossy big sister... you could tell he was proud, and the whole family got into it. Thank you to the Y for all the hard work you to do to help him learn and grow.
    - Joey & Liz K.
  • As a first-time parent, I was skeptical about having my son in daycare, but the Y staff made it such an easy transition from being home with mom to being in a learning environment. Teachers and staff have created a safe environment where my son can learn and show his personality. I honestly could have not asked for a better daycare for my son.
    - Katrina B.
  • [The YMCA] staff has impacted Mila in the early learning program in so many ways. [We] appreciate everyone that was on TEAM MILA. Mila shared endless stories with us about her entire day.... The teachers and aides were so kind ot Mila, and we couldn’t have had a better experience anywhere else.
    - Natish P.
  • I thank all of the YMCA teachers for being such amazing people and for all the great work and lessons they teach to my kids. I remember walking in crying because my kids didn't want to stay at any other place and I was desperately trying to place them at a daycare. I feel so fortunate to have found your organization and your team has been amazing. My kids love to go to the YMCA and for that, I am thankful — your team is truly gifted and has wonderful teachers.
    - Tamara K.
  • At the Y, they are warm, welcoming, and care for my little loved ones. They update me with helpful resources and assistance when needed. I am truly grateful for the YMCA staff who have helped me tremendously and made a positive impact on me and my children.
    - Taylor S.

Explore Early Learning Offerings at Your Local Y 

Ask any family who’s been with us from cradle to college (and there are many!), and they’ll tell you the same thing: Early Learning at the Y is so much more than childcare. For decades, the YMCA of Metro Chicago has taken great pride in providing care that’s curated to meet the needs of each unique child and family! Check out the Early Learning offerings at a Y near you! 

Find My Y

Early Education & Care Annual Report 

Read the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s 2025 Early Education & Care Annual Report by clicking the button below!

View Report