Child Care at the Y
Exceptional child care and education is something that comes naturally to the YMCA.
Our state-licensed programs focus on learning through play, exploration and hands-on activities.
The YMCA of Greater Hartford uses the Early Learning Development Standards (ELDS) for infant, toddler and preschool children by the Connecticut Department of Education. These standards align with the Common Core, preparing children for kindergarten and life. In addition to meeting ELDS expectations, we also collaborate with many local and state organizations to offer the highest quality enrichment experience for your child.
Infant & Toddler care
Infant and toddler programs at the YMCA of Greater Hartford provide a safe place for children to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-confidence. We place a special emphasis on the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in order to help children grow in spirit, mind and body.
Preschool at the Y
Preschool programs at the YMCA of Greater Hartford focus on learning through play, exploration and hands-on activities. Our qualified teachers have years of education and experience to fully prepare your children for kindergarten. We place a special emphasis on the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in order to help children grow in spirit, mind and body.
School Age Before & After
In our school age before and after school program, children absorb knowledge, skills and values from everything and everyone around them. At the YMCA of Greater Hartford, our before and after school care programs allow children a safe and supportive environment to learn new skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships, promote teamwork, leadership and creativity; provide educational support and build self-confidence.
Y Vacation Days
Throughout the school year, there are many occasions for schools to close--holidays, teacher professional development and vacation breaks. At the YMCA, we realize the importance of providing a safe environment for these students during the time that schools are not operating.
Snow Days at GHYMCA
At the YMCA, we realize the importance of providing a safe environment for these students during the time that schools are not operating. These fun-filled days include art projects, games and swimming* (activities may vary by YMCA).
Babysitting
We offer different activities depending on the child's age and development level. From books, board games to arts and crafts, action figures to puzzles, we have tons of options that will please everyone.
Financial Assistance
@ the YMCA of Greater Hartford
All qualified applicants awarded YMCA Financial Assistance will have awards applied to membership, youth programs, camp, and childcare if appropriate. If you decline the scholarship and wish to cancel enrollment in our program, please contact the YMCA in writing via email or mail the letter to the YMCA branch. To qualify for financial assistance, you must submit qualifying income verification as described in the Financial Assistance Application. YMCA Financial Assistance is available for membership, youth, camp and childcare programs.
For camp and childcare programs there are a few important steps:
- Families must apply for Care4Kids by completing the application and provider agreement forms: www.ctcare4kids.com
- Submit your application for YMCA Financial Assistance with required income verification.
- If YMCA Financial Assistance is awarded, families will be responsible for the remaining childcare/camp balance(s).
- If Care4Kids is also awarded payments may be adjusted further after Care4Kids certificate of eligibility is received.
- Any remaining balances after all awards are posted to account are the responsibility of the recipient/member.