YMCA Child Care has made a big impact on Okanagan families over the years, and as Y Child Care continues to grow and expand, its success holds an even greater meaning for those in our community.
In a recent survey on one of the Y’s Child Care Centres, Okanagan parents couldn’t say enough, “…it’s an amazing place for a child to grow,” commented one father. “My kid learns to be strong, kind and loving from the teachers and all the events the YMCA hosts.” Another family describes the Y Child Care as a place where their “children are welcomed, loved and well cared for.”
The results of this survey show that 100 per cent of parents feel their kids have fun and have access to a wide variety of age appropriate activities while they are in the Y’s care, and that 89 per cent would recommend the Y’s Child Care centre to friends, family and colleagues.
“Many people don’t know that the YMCA is the largest non-profit child care provider in Canada,” says child care manager, Colleen Keeler. “We have something unique to offer. In our Early Learning Centres for instance, our YMCA Playing to Learn curriculum is based on the latest research on how kids really learn, and it goes back to the basics—children absorb through play. Our teachers are not acting as supervisors, but instead as ‘play partners’ and facilitate experiences, setting the stage for learning to take place. The kids here truly engage in the programs and parents can see that.”
For school aged kids, one local mother recently expressed her gratitude for the Y’s Out of School Care, “I cannot say enough good things about the after-school care program! The staff is a group of amazing, caring, encouraging people who provide a safe, engaging, respectful and fun environment for my children.”
307 children, from infant to grade 6, were nurtured in the Y’s Out of School and Playing to Learn programs last year, giving them the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development they need for success in life.
Now, in addition to the YMCA of Okanagan’s Kelowna Child Care locations, the Y is expanding its reach with two new centres soon opening in West Kelowna—Glenrosa Elementary’s YMCA Playing to Learn Preschool and an Out of School Care Centre at Rose Valley Elementary. Both are currently accepting registrations along with Little Scholars Playing to Learn Preschool at Okanagan College. Financial assistance is available to those who require it.
Learn more at ymcaokanagan.ca or contact Colleen Keeler at 250-862-5653 ext. 4 to register.
