At the YMCA, our Early Care and After School programs are more than just a place for children to go—they offer a Path with a Purpose. Help your child discover their purpose by enrolling them today! We have programs available at locations throughout the Houston area.

Why Choose YMCA Programs?

From early childhood through their teenage years and beyond, the YMCA offers a journey that fosters growth, character and ambition. Our programs are designed to equip youth with the skills, confidence and social awareness they need to thrive as they transition into adulthood. At the Y, every activity is a step toward becoming a competent, confident, compassionate adult who contributes positively to their community.

The YMCA of Greater Houston provides after-school care, early childhood education, and camps for every stage of life. Together, these programs create a pathway to becoming a well-rounded, successful adult. Let your child discover their full potential at the Y.

Early Care Programs (Infants to Age 5)

At the YMCA, learning is fueled by fun and guided by excellent teachers. Our Early Care Programs provide a nurturing and educational environment for children from infancy through preschool. Using The Creative Curriculum®, a state-approved, research-based teaching strategy, our activities are tailored to meet each child’s developmental needs, preparing them for kindergarten and beyond. We nurture cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and creative growth, ensuring every child is ready to take their next educational step.

• Infant Care (6 weeks to 17 months): Our programs feature daily activities designed to support each child’s growth and development. We provide nurturing routines and meaningful experiences, ensuring parents are kept up-to-date with daily updates on their child’s progress.
• Toddler Care (18 months to 35 months): As toddlers learn at a rapid pace, our curriculum focuses on responsive care and experiences that promote self-help skills, including toilet training. Our staff work closely with parents to support each child’s unique needs.
• Preschool (36 months to 5 years): The Creative Curriculum® for preschoolers teaches children to be creative and confident thinkers through hands-on experiences across ten content areas, including social-emotional development, literacy, mathematics and science.

Testimonial: “When our 2 1/2-year-old son started at the Y, we were anxious first-timers. All our worries were put to rest within the first few weeks. His teachers have been incredibly nurturing and supportive, and our son is always engaged and smiling when we pick him up. We couldn’t ask for a better start to his education!”

To learn more about our Early Care Programs, contact a YMCA Children’s Academy location near you.

After School Care (Ages 5-12)

With YMCA After School Care, you can be confident that your child is having fun in a safe and supportive environment while engaging in activities that reinforce academic concepts. Available at over 180 locations across Houston, the Y offers convenient, affordable, and quality care during after-school hours.

• Peace of Mind for Parents: All YMCA staff members pass FBI background checks, receive 40 hours of annual training and are certified in CPR and First Aid.
• Comprehensive Activities: Our programs provide a range of activities, including homework assistance, healthy snacks, academic enrichment, physical play, and lessons in empathy, inclusion and service learning.
• Typical Day at the YMCA After School Program:

• • Y Community Time: Children are welcomed with a healthy snack and engaging group activities, including social-emotional learning activities that promote diversity, empathy and critical thinking.
  • Brain Power Hour: Time dedicated to homework and academic learning, with assistance from certified teachers.
  • Enrichment Activities: Structured activities such as music, art, theatre and service learning that ignite imagination and foster a love of learning.
  • Energize: Physical play activities using the CATCH Kids Club curriculum.
  • Exploration: Fun, hands-on activities designed to reinforce STEM and literacy concepts in partnership with Scholastic Learning.

For more information on After School Care, visit our website.

Why Choose the YMCA?

• Financial assistance is available.
• Experienced, caring staff.
• Convenient locations for working parents.
• Holiday care options.

Help your child build a brighter future by enrolling in YMCA Early Care or After School Programs today! For more details, explore all our childcare options.