Playing, Learning & Growing Together
Registration for 2026-27 Before & After School Care is Now Open!
From homework help and social emotional support to recess, our fantastic teams bring a sense of play to every offering. The Y has provided before and after school care for more than 30 years and is the largest provider in the Chicagoland area. Our programs are an extension of school that’s as fun and unique as your kid!
Registration for 2026-27 programming is available online for everyone through YMCA Community! Need help navigating our portal? Check out our registration guide here.
School’s Out? Play On!
At the Y, we know that play shouldn’t have to end just because school isn’t in session. Our School Days Out programs offer full days of activity that give youth space to stretch their legs and their imaginations. We offer a wide range of programming that keeps your kid’s brain and body active year-round — from arts and crafts to sports and games. School Days Out is offered at YMCAs and partner schools across Chicagoland.
Learn MorePartner With Us for School-age Learning
If you are a parent, principal, or school representative that is interested in any of our programs for school-age children, please complete our interest form below! For more information about partnerships, please contact Allison Greenman at [email protected].
Interest FormEnrichment Programming
Open the door to new skills, interests, and passions with our wide-ranging, play-centered enrichment programming. At the Y, we enhance our before and after school care spaces with special interest enrichment that engages youth with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), targeted physical activity, and other skill building that build toward academic success. Enrichment programming offerings vary by site.
Learn MoreCommunity Schools Initiative (Y-CSI)
Y-CSI promotes academic, social-emotional, and physical wellbeing in under-resourced elementary and middle schools, primarily on the South and West Sides of Chicago. We leverage activities, partners, and resources — anchored in academic readiness, character development, fitness and healthy living, and violence prevention — to build community and deliver enrichment programming and support to both school-age youth and their families.
YMCA Safe ‘n Sound
Over thirty years ago, we made a firm commitment to supporting the health and wellness of all children in the Naperville and Aurora communities. Our Safe 'n Sound programs engage kids in fun activities that foster a desire to learn, and our dedicated staff members encourage youth to develop the values, skills, and friendships that lead to positive behavior, better health, and educational achievement.
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
We believe all youth and all families should experience the Power of Play. Several Y programs are eligible for CCAP, which may cover some child care costs for Before & After School Care and Summer Camp. Applicants must:
- Live in Illinois
- Be employed at and/or attend an eligible educational activity (high school, trade school, college, etc.)
- Have children ages 12 or younger that need care while you are working or going to school
- Have an eligible family income, as determined by Illinois income guidelines
Please contact your program's Enrollment Coordinator for assistance!
Check Out Y Summer Camp!
We know that when kids show up with an open mind and a playful spirit, they unlock a world of growth, discovery, and friendships that last a lifetime. Y Summer Camp is a safe, supportive, and super fun environment where your child can thrive all summer long. From sports and arts to science and nature, our camps offer a wide range of activities that keep kids engaged and excited. Campers also build lasting friendships and a sense of belonging that extends beyond the summer.