Early Learning & Education

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Early Learning & Education

Helping Youth Reach Their Fullest Potential!

As one of Chicagoland’s largest social enterprises, the YMCA of Metro Chicago offers licensed early learning programs, early childhood enrichment programs, before and after school programs, and more! We give youth of all ages a safe and nurturing environment in which to grow, learn, and thrive! By supporting the growth and development of youth, the Y is working to bring about lasting, meaningful change to our communities.

Early Learning (Ages 0-5)

At the Y, we believe in showing up for families at every stage of life, starting with the earliest years of life. Your child’s safety and healthy development are our top priority — we ensure that each child receives nurturing, attentive care from our highly-qualified teachers. Our infant and toddler programs, as part of our Early Head Start program, focus on the inclusion of family in the learning environment. Our preschool program is rooted in the creative curriculum, which includes social-emotional development, cognitive development, communication, and literacy. Kindergarten readiness focuses on critical-thinking and math skills, among others.. For these earliest learners, we encourage youth to explore their own interests in a supportive environment!

Our early learning programs follow Illinois early learning standards, are accredited through Excelerate Illinois, and serve all Illinois families, including those receiving financial assistance.

In addition to certified early learning programs, many of our locations also offer Preschool Enrichment programs, wherein preschool-age youth engage in on-site creative arts classes while their caregivers are participating in workout classes or other Y programming. For more information and availability, contact your YMCA.

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School Age (Kindergarten to Age 12)

YMCA of Metro Chicago has provided before and after school care, along with other school-age enrichment, for more than 30 years. Our Out of School Time program provides enrichment-focused care that empowers positive identity, develops essential life skills, builds honesty and trust among peers, instills healthy habits, and cultivates positive futures for school-aged youth in the city and its surrounding suburbs. As a dedicated community organization, we strive to act as a support network, responding quickly to the changing needs of today’s families. Our goal is to provide practical options that keep school-aged kids safe and engaged so they can flourish.

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I would like to fully endorse keeping the YMCA as an option for before/after school care in our community. It is a well-known, well-respected non-profit that has supported this community for years. The YMCA was there for the community when COVID hit and kids had to complete remote learning; the Y supported and guided those students through their work and helped give those parents a sense of security through uncertain times.

- Leah R.
As a first-time parent, I was skeptical about having my son in daycare but the staff made it such an easy transition from being home with mom to being in a learning environment. Teachers and staff at the Rauner Family Y 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. Thank you, YMCA for being a part of our family and being the community we need to help our little hands grow and be the future we need.

- S. Dominguez

The Journey Starts Here

At the Y, we believe in showing up for families at every stage of life’s journey because every child deserves the chance to reach their fullest potential. All of our programs offer an exciting opportunity for children to learn, grow, and become their future self… and it all begins at your nearest Y!

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Your Health Is Protected at the YMCA of Metro Chicago

At the Y, we’re a community—one that supports and looks out for each other. And when it comes to maintaining a safe and healthy environment, you can be sure that we’re on our game. From deep-cleanings of our spaces to touchless soap dispensers, we’re continually improving to help keep you at your best.