YMCA Children's Learning Center

The Children's Learning Center is our early education center for 6 weeks to 5 year olds. We recognizes the special qualities that make each child and each family a unique entity with individual goals, values and needs. We have created a safe and supportive environment that promotes each child’s self-confidence, curiosity, cooperation, and creativity. Our center operates Monday - Friday from 6:30am-6pm. We pride ourselves on:

• Exceptional Kindergarten Readiness: Our teachers utilize Headstart curriculum, ensuring your little one gets the best start in their educational journey
• Expert Educators: Our team of highly trained and passionate teachers are dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for your child's growth and development.
• Quality Commitment: Have peace of mind knowing that our program is fully licensed by the Department of Children and Family Services, meeting the highest standards for child care and early education.
• Personalized Tours: We invite you to meet our passionate team and explore our facilities, providing a firsthand look at how we create engaging and enriching experiences for preschoolers.
• Financial Support: We believe that every child deserves access to high-quality, early education. We offer financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and scholarships generously provided by YMCA donors. Quality education should be within reach for all families.

Little Campers

Little Campers is designed for 3-5 year olds to enjoy mornings filled with singing, dancing, crafting, exploring and learning! This program is offered at the Puri Family YMCA and SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA during the summer and select school-year breaks, such as winter & spring break. Little Campers takes place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 8:00-11:00 a.m.

Participants are asked to bring a peanut free, healthy snack and a water bottle to camp with you each day!

$50/wk for members
$75/wk for program members

Little Learners

Launch your child's love of learning at the Y with our Little Learners program! Blending early math and literacy into themed, playful activities, we nurture critical thinking, creativity, and social skills. In an enriching environment filled with story time, arts, crafts, and group games, your child will grow in skills and confidence while creating their first friendships and a sense of belonging. Tailored for 3-5 year olds with options to attend 2 days or 3 days per week.

Little Learners is offered at the Northeast Family YMCA on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 8:30am-11:30am. Participants need to be potty trained. 

Monthly Costs:

• 2 days/wk (Monday & Wednesday): $35/member; $70/program member
• 3 days/wk (Monday - Wednesday): $50/member; $100/program member

Financial assistance is available.

Nature Tots

Little kids have BIG adventures at Nature Tots! Join us at our Camp Winnebago YMCA for a Montessori-inspired program where preschoolers learn through the magic of play and exploration. Through hands-on activities and outdoor adventures, children develop a deep connection with nature while fostering their curiosity, creativity, and a sense of wonder for the world around them! Nature Tots is tailored for 3-5 year olds with options to attend 2 days or 3 days per week from 9am-Noon.

Monthly Costs:

2 days/wk (Tuesday & Thursday): $140/member; $200/program member
3 days/wk (Monday, Wednesday & Friday): $200/member; $300/program member

Financial assistance is available. This program resumes March 4, 2024!