Childcare and Education

FOSTERING YOUNG POTENTIAL

All kids have great potential. Children are like sponges — they watch and absorb knowledge, skills and values from everything and everyone around them. That’s why the Y supports their academic, physical and social emotional development from cradle to career with holistic programs that don’t just close the gap — they help kids realize who they are and all they can achieve. At the Y, babies develop trust and security; preschoolers experience early literacy and learn about their world; and school-age kids make friends, learn new skills and grow academically. Most importantly, children learn how to be their best selves.

A Safe Place for Children to Grow

All kids are in good hands at the Y. Our highly trained and credentialed staff understand the cognitive, physical and social development of children. We recognize the need children have to feel connected and supported, as well as the care and reinforcement parents and families need. All staff are trained in First Aid/CPR and receive special instruction related to safety and child development. Our mission for these children? To fulfill their innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated and healthy.

Nurturing Kids, Supporting Parents

Our Afterschool, Homeschool and Preschool programs impact over 3000 children at the YMCA of Greater Charlotte each year. Additionally, our on-demand and flexible Drop-In and Drop-Off Childcare, provide parents with a chance to exercise, fellowship with other adults or celebrate a morning, afternoon or evening out. To help support busy families, many of these children are provided transportation to and from our branches. These important programs create a partnership between parents and the Y to make confident kids today and contributing, engaged adults tomorrow.

Flexible, Dependable Childcare

We offer free Drop-In Childcare while parents make use of the Y. Playful, engaging options are plentiful for young children while parents exercise or connect with others over shared interests. More than a babysitting service, Y staff members provide learning experiences in a safe, fun environment. Our childcare providers are trained to hone a child’s fine and gross motor skills, encourage socialization and teach them how to make healthy choices. Drop-Off Childcare options provide our greater Charlotte community with the option to enjoy a good workout, run errands, go to a doctor’s appointment or just relax while children play, explore and learn with our experienced, caring Y staff. We also provide young children opportunities for development, social experiences and learning through play through Parents’ Morning, Afternoon or Night Out.