Child Care at the Y

Exceptional child development 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 and preschool programs at the YMCA of Greater Hartford are accredited through NAEYC, the National Association for the Education of Young Children

Infant & Toddler Care Preschool School Age Before & After Care Y Vacation Days Snow Day Care

Financial Assistance:

Financial assistance for Child Care programs is made possible through donations to the YMCA’s Annual Campaign. For more information, please contact the YMCA of Greater Hartford’s Association Office. In addition, we encourage all participants who apply for Financial Assistance to also apply to Care 4 Kids. Please inquire at branch office.

Financial Assistance Form

Infant and Toddler Care

Infant and Toddler

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 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 School

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.

No School Day Programs

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 Day Program

Snow Day Program

There are times during the school year that schools close due to inclement weather. 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). Registration will be available at the child care sites in the fall prior to the winter snow season.

Financial assistance

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance for Child Care programs is made possible through donations to the YMCA’s Annual Campaign. We encourage all participants who apply for Financial Assistance to also apply to Care 4 Kids.

Financial Assistance

Care 4 Kids