Children are like sponges. They watch and absorb knowledge, skills, and values from everything and everyone around them. At the Y, we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success.
That’s why our afterschool and childcare programs are staffed with people who understand the cognitive, physical, and social development of kids, the need children have to feel connected and supported in trying new things, and the caring and reinforcement parents and families need to help each other. The YMCA of WNC offers several childcare options for busy families.
Afterschool
The YMCA is recognized as a national leader in safe, supportive, and nurturing childcare that emphasizes social-emotional learning, physical activity, and healthy eating. Locally, the YMCA of Western North Carolina is the state’s largest provider of licensed school-age childcare. During a typical school year, the Y provides afterschool care for more than 1,000 children each week.
The Y works closely with school systems, community partners, and parents to provide afterschool and school's out care iat more than 30 sites in Buncombe and McDowell counties. Scholarships are available for each program on a sliding scale.
Safety precautions
To protect the health and safety of children, staff, and families, the Y has implemented additional safety measures in accordance with local, state, and federal orders and guidance:
- Hand washing scheduled and offered throughout the day
- Social distancing practices
- Modified games to encourage social distancing
- No sharing of toys, food, etc.
- Face coverings for children and staff
- Sanitizing high use areas and materials throughout the day and at the end of every day
Expansion plans
The Y is actively exploring options to expand its offerings if demand for school-age childcare exceeds current capacity. Morning and afternoon half-day programs at YMCAs are a possibility.
Registration
Due to a labor shortage, many of our programs have a waitlist. Please register for the appropriate district for your child.