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PRESS: Greater Philadelphia YMCA Throws Glow Parties to Spotlight Afterschool Access

Lights on After School

We're celebrating Lights On After School (LOA) at all of our Before and After School Enrichment locations! This national celebration highlights the importance of afterschool programs. Afterschool programs give children a safe place to learn, build friendships, and discover new interests. At the Y, we believe every child deserves access to a place where they belong,…

Register for Before and After School Programs for the 26-27 School Year

Great news, parents! We're offering Before and After School Care (BASE) at 60+ locations throughout the region! This program helps fill a gap for working families by keeping kids safe when not in school.ActivitiesYour kids can experience tons of fun activities at the Y before and after regular school hours. This includes activities like:Homework assistanceOutdoor…

The Role of Music in Child Development

Music evokes happiness in people of all ages and can instantly change our mood. Particularly for children in early education, the power of music extends beyond bringing joy. Music is an essential tool for child development across various aspects of life.This guide explores the role of music in child development, focusing on its benefits and practical…

How to Develop Your Child's Social Skills

All parents want their children to grow into confident adults ready to reach their full potential. Teaching social skills to children at preschool and kindergarten ages is fundamental to reaching that goal. By learning these vital skills, your child can learn to make friends, communicate effectively, and understand their own and others' feelings.Understanding Social Skill Development…

Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten?

With your child approaching kindergarten age, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and concern about this important milestone. You want to ensure they are ready to thrive in a new environment with at least the basic skills.What age to start kindergarten varies depending on your child's development and your local school district's specific…

Why Before and After School Programs Are Important

Many parents and guardians work in the hours before and after school, and they may not have reliable child care options. Both before and after school programs offer a safe, educational, and fun space for kids to complete homework, play games, and make friends, helping with the responsibility of child care for many families.These supervised…

Child Care Drop-Off Tips

Children normally have difficulty adjusting to new environments and experiences, and day care is no exception. For many 3- and 4-year-old children, the first few weeks of drop-off are tear-filled. The crying is often triggered by the separation anxiety they experience when they realize they'll be away from home and their families.It's not any easier…