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Early Learning

Success Starts Early

Choosing the right preschool can be the start to a lifelong love of learning! It’s why the Y’s preschools promote laughter, as well as language, anti-bias literacy, critical thinking, and the Creative Curriculum. By creating an environment of joy, we set the stage for infinite educational possibilities! 

We Focus on Development

When it comes to helping your child thrive, the Sage YMCA’s preschool programs focus on developmental opportunities, including: 

  • Pre-Writing & Reading Skills
  • Math Skills such as Counting, Shape Sorting, & Matching Patterns
  • Conflict Resolution, Recognizing Feelings, & Building Relationships
  • Fine & Gross Motor Skills
  • Social-Emotional Skills Needed for Self-regulation 
  • Self-Help Skills Needed for Growing Independence

Sage YMCA Early Learning Registration

We accept registrations year-round! To learn more or schedule a tour, please fill out our Sage Y Inquiry Form.

Inquiry Form

What to Expect of Sage YMCA Care

  • Highly Qualified & Well-Trained Teachers
  • Clean, Attractive & Developmentally Appropriate, Conducive Learning Environments
  • Healthy & Nutritious Organic Meals and Snacks
  • Educational Activities & Monthly Visits from the Local Library 
  • Developmental Screenings & Assessments 
  • Supportive Services for Children with Disabilities
  • Resources & Referrals for Social Services
  • Opportunities for Parent Involvement

  • Signing up your child for preschool is an exciting time! There are many benefits of attending preschool. It provides structure and consistency for children and teaches them social skills, self help skills, and independence. Preschool also supports cognitive development, preparing children for kindergarten. 

    Every child develops at their own pace, so there's no rule of when your child should start preschool. If you're unsure whether or not preschool is currently a good fit for your child, visit your local YMCA preschool and meet with your Early Learning Director for more information.

  • Children typically start preschool around the age of 2 years old. 
  • Contact Jodi Diaz at [email protected] to set up a time to visit, learn more, or register for preschool at the Y! 
  • Registration for preschool at the YMCA is accepted year round, provided that there are openings in the classroom. 

  • Children are required to be potty trained, except for children in the 2-3 year old program. For more information, please contact Jodi Diaz at [email protected].

  • The Sage Y preschool operates from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

  • Children are grouped by ages 2-3 and 3-5.

  • The YMCA’s preschool teachers are Teacher Qualified per Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) regulations. Each of our teachers also receives a minimum of 20 hours of continued professional development every year.
  • Our YMCA preschools  prioritize a safe learning environment. We follow the required Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) regulations for teacher to child ratios:1 teacher per 8 children age 2 and 1 teacher per 10 children  ages 3 to 5.
  • Our YMCA preschool programs use a redirection and choice providing approach which is designed to support children in the learning process.
  • We strive to provide your child with a constructive and rewarding learning environment! Our YMCA preschool programs implement the Creative Curriculum in all classrooms. We also provide academic assessments and developmental screenings such as Ages and Stages (ASQ). Together, this information supports the teachers in understanding where each child needs more support.
  • Yes, most meals are provided by an all-organic food vendor that supports all dietary restrictions. Check with your local preschool for more information on the meals served.
  • Our preschool program's daily schedule is built around a creative curriculum that allows time for children to have free choice and large motor activities, as well as small group learning activities. During group time, children will work on fine motor development, large motor development, and kindergarten readiness activities.