EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE

 At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. We believe in providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to build social connections, physical development and mental health.

 The Goals of YMCA Child Care Programs:

• To help children develop to their fullest potential

• To support and strengthen the family unit

• Deliver childcare in a safe and positive environment

• To teach, model, celebrate, practice, praise, and reinforce the four values of character development: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility

• To foster health and well-being for children and families

Our state-of-the-art childcare center combines state licensing regulations with the YMCA mission to offer children the highest quality care. Qualified staff foster social, emotional, physical, and educational growth through developmentally appropriate activities based on the Creative Curriculum. We believe children learn best through play and experiences and strive to offer variety each day. Some of these experiences include swim lessons for children age 3 and older, music, art, dramatic play, and outdoor activities. The YMCA and Onalaska School District collaborate to offer a 4-year-old preschool program in the YMCA Child Care Center.