Get Involved!

What does it take to prepare a child for kindergarten? Our Early Childhood Learning Center balances play and imagination with curriculum designed just for preschool. Y kids enter kindergarten prepared for a lifetime of learning.

On the surface, it looks like full-time child care for children ages 2-5. Underneath, kids are embarking on a voyage of learning with child-centered curriculum that addresses development of the whole child.

The YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers offer full time, state licensed child care that builds on children's natural desire to learn new things and become more self-reliant. In addition to an emphasis on scholastics, we build upon the values that you work to instill everyday - like getting along with other children, sharing, taking turns, and problem solving skills.

The Y is an exciting and challenging place, helping preschoolers stretch their skills in mind and body.

Family

No matter how many hours children spend in child care, we know that family is the most important structure in their lives. Like all Y programs, child care is open to all, with financial aid available. YMCA Preschool Staff work in partnership with parents to help kids grow up healthy, happy and strong. We’d love to meet you and show you around our Early Childhood Learning Center.

Location:

At the Richland YMCA located at 1234 Columbia Park Trail, Richland

At the Kennewick YMCA located at 741 S. Dayton Street, Kennewick

Hours:

We’re open from 7am to 6pm Monday through Friday

Rates:

Full Time Care Only
Ages 2-3 - $650 per month
Ages 4-5 - $575 per month
Rates include breakfast and two snacks. A $50.00 registration fee is due annually.

Registration is on-going based on availability

1. Call our office at 374-1908 to check for availability.
2. Schedule a tour with Bonnie our preschool director, plan to bring your preschooler with you.
3. Once you have all your questions answered and Bonnie has gotten to know your preschooler, enrollment takes place at the YMCA office
4. Download the Early Childhood Learning Center registration form here.
5. Download the Early Childhood Learning Center Parent Handbook for more information about our program

What you will need with you to register:

1. Insurance/Medical Cards
2. Child(ren)'s physician, name and contact number
3. Emergency contact information (other than parent/guardian)
4. State Immunization Records (required) to have all filled out before you come to register. The State of Washington just published a new version of the Immunization Records form. As of July, 2011, all Immunization records from older forms will have to be transferred to the new form. Please download the newest version above.
5. Names, addresses, phone numbers of persons authorized to pick up your child(ren) from child care site
6. DSHS Families: Pre-authorization paper work is required at time of registration
7. * Call the YMCA office to find out program site provider number (required by DSHS)
   * Work with DSHS to become authorized
   * Contact the YMCA to confirm we've received your pre-authorization paperwork needed to register

Like all Y programs, the Early Childhood Learning Center is open to everyone; we accept DSHS payments (download DSHS Instructions here) and financial assistance is available.

Oh and once your child is enrolled, you’re encouraged to drop by any time, join us on a field trip, or help out in the classroom.

Proud partner of the United Way