State Access Pre-K

We are proud to offer Pre-K Counts and PHL Pre-K programs at select Y Locations. These programs offer free Pre-K to families who meet the requirements.

Pre-K Counts

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts (Pre-K Counts) provides quality half-day and full-day pre-kindergarten to eligible 3 and 4-year-olds until the entry age for kindergarten.

The Pre-K Counts program is designed for kids at risk of school failure who may also be English language learners or have special needs. Families who fall below 300% of poverty are eligible to apply for Pre K Counts. The poverty guidelines are available by clicking here. Families who fall within 100% of poverty levels are encouraged to also apply to Head Start.

 Learn More About Pre-K Counts

These children benefit from:

• a small class size (20 students per one teacher and one aide) so that your child can have plenty of one-on-one time with the teachers
• classroom teachers with the education and expertise to teach young children
• a curriculum that helps each child grow, academically and socially
• selected teaching and learning activities that are best for individual learning abilities
• regular updates about their progress throughout the school year

Pre-K Counts is free to eligible families. The Y may charge for non-Pre-K Counts programming such as before and after school care. Financial assistance is available to help offset these costs for those who qualify.

Based on the quality components adopted for pre-kindergarten by the State Board of Education, the Y provides families with a choice of quality pre-kindergarten options in YMCA Early Learning Centers in the participating communities we serve.

 Contact Us to Register

PHL PreK

PHLpreK funds free, quality, pre-K at over 130 centers throughout Philadelphia. The Y is a participating partner of this program within the city!

PHLpreK is available to 3 and 4-year-olds who reside in the City of Philadelphia. You are likely eligible to enroll your child for the PHLpreK 2023-24 academic year if:

• Your child has turned 3 or 4 by September of the next year.
• You are a resident of Philadelphia.

There are no income or employment requirements.

Learn More about PHL Pre-K

Private Pre-K

Through this program, families can have access to YMCA preschool programs that prepare children to enter kindergarten ready to learn and succeed. Our qualified teachers are skilled to provide your child with the tools they need for success in school and in life!

The Early Learning program uses a curriculum based on Pennsylvania’s quality early learning standards.

Preschool Program (3 – 4 Years)

The preschool program provides three-year-olds with opportunities to socialize and build a solid foundation for future education. Experienced teachers and aides incorporate child-centered activities to encourage attentive listening skills, pro-social behavior, and provide opportunities to increase self-awareness.

 Pre-Kindergarten Program (4 – 5 Years)

At this age, your child will gain independence with a more structured environment and a curriculum to build the school readiness skills your child needs for a successful year as a kindergartner. Teachers will partner with you and the school district to ensure you and your child are ready to fully transition into the elementary school environment.

 Contact Us to Register