Early Learning at the Y
The Y’s Early Learning programs combine a safe and happy educational environment with an intentional, proven curriculum designed to stimulate intellectual, emotional, and social growth – all with the focus of preparing children for success in kindergarten and beyond. Our program provides development opportunities for young children to learn through play, develop cognitive and physical health, become enthusiastic, inquisitive learners, develop character, be independent and self-confident - and so much more!
For detailed information about Early Learning at the Y review our Child Care Handbook.
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Our Programs
Infant Program
We provide infants with a safe and nurturing environment filled with opportunities to grow, thrive, and explore the world around them with the care of loving professionals. Individual attention for your child and a stimulating atmosphere help develop the skills of grasping toys, language, and exploring movement. Activities are incorporated without disrupting our infants’ daily routines.
Toddler Program
Our toddler program nurtures and encourages your child’s natural curiosity in a fun and active learning environment. Highly trained teachers plan daily activities that encourage an enthusiastic exploration of the world. Within the consistent structure toddlers crave, children enjoy a daily balance of quiet activities, spirited music, movement, and plenty of outdoor climbing, running, and jumping.
Preschool Program
Children transition through the early stages of development toward more advanced skills they need to succeed in elementary school and beyond! Caring staff leads children in activities that introduce Kindergarten-readiness skills while supporting children’s natural curiosity about the world around them through dramatic play. Teachers encourage pro-social behavior and provide opportunities to increase self-care skills.
Part-Day Preschool Program
This is more than a playgroup – it’s your child’s first school experience away from parents or guardians. Designed for kids 2 – 5 years, the Y’s Part-Day Preschool program encourages social interaction and listening skills at the hands of caring, experienced teachers, and aides. Children will be introduced to the wonderful world of colors, shapes, songs, music, movement, friendship, and more. Pre-K age children will also be taught beginning writing and reading skills, along with math concepts.
A Focus on School Readiness
Creative Curriculum
Early Learning Centers utilize The Creative Curriculum, a comprehensive research-based curriculum, for infants through preschool-aged children. The Creative Curriculum supports active learning to inspire each and every child to become a more creative, confident thinker. By integrating exploration and discovery as a way of learning, The Creative Curriculum enables children to develop confidence, creativity, and lifelong critical thinking skills.
Social-Emotional Learning
Children need social-emotional skills to thrive both in the classroom and in life. The Second Step Social-emotional learning (SEL) curricula teach children techniques to gain confidence, set goals, make better decisions, collaborate with others in work and play, and navigate the world more effectively.
SEL concepts provide an extra dimension to education, focusing on improving cooperation, communication, and decision making. In a world where emotional intelligence is critical for lifelong happiness, successful careers, and healthier relationships, SEL gives students a framework for developing these skills.
Building Parent-Teacher Relationships
Communication about your child’s day is vital to building strong parent-teacher relationships. Tadpoles is a parent-friendly virtual platform that allows teachers to share photos, videos, and notes to parents throughout the day safely and securely.
Daily reports will keep parents informed of the activities and learning experiences that happen while you are at work.
A Commitment to Quality
Keystone STARS (Standards, Training/Professional Development, Assistance, Resources, and Supports) is a quality rating system that promotes quality improvement in early learning and development programs and school-age child care. High quality early learning programs will offer your child a stimulating, nurturing environment which should help prepare them for school and to reach his or her full potential. The Greater Philadelphia Y’s Early Learning Standards are committed to maintaining STAR 3 and STAR 4 centers as our promise to offering high-quality child care to the community.