The East Area Family YMCA partners with the Fayetteville-Manlius School District to offer Universal Preschool and Wrap Around Care for families within the F-M School District.
Early Learning at The East Y
All childcare and education programming at the East YMCA is licensed through the Office of Child and Family Services. As a licensed childcare facility, the Y follows guidelines and regulations as laid out for the health and wellness of children. This includes the training of our staff and the condition of our facilities.
UPK Education
Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) at the East YMCA Branch is available to families who reside in the Fayetteville-Manlius School District. Our classes are at our branch.
This program is free of cost to families and requires that students are registered with the district in advance. You can find information on registering your child here: Registration | Fayetteville Manlius School District (Home - Fayetteville-Manlius Schools) Students are selected through an anonymous lottery process by the district.
The East Y UPK utilizes a combination of curriculums to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Creative Curriculum, Second Step (socio-emotional learning), and Heggerty (phonemic awareness).
Our program is a full-day program, starting at 8:30 am and ending at 1:30 pm. Students must bring their own snacks, we do offer the option for families to buy lunch or bring their own lunch. During a typical day children will participate in community learning time, physical activity, and learning centers. For more information on what a typical day at UPK looks like, please contact the director of this program.
Wrap Around Care
Our wrap-around program offers extended hours from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, allowing caregivers to work while ensuring their children are safe and cared for. Each day includes a rest period for students to relax. This program requires separate registration and has a monthly fee. It focuses on positive values in a caring environment, emphasizing developmentally appropriate play and child-led activities that foster confidence, teamwork, and responsibility. A healthy snack is provided. The YMCA is committed to accessibility and offers scholarships for families who may find the cost burdensome. Interested families can apply by submitting a completed Scholarship Application and necessary documents.
Vacation Days
During scheduled days off, school breaks and snow days, the Hal Welsh East Area Family YMCA offers full day care from 7:00 am - 5:00 pm. UPK Students can be registered on a first-come, first-served basis. The East YMCA follows the Fayetteville-Manlius School District calendar. There is a minimum participant requirement that must be met in order for the program to run.
Snow Days
Snow day programming registrations are not available in advance. When the district announces school closure due to weather, a registration link is sent to UPK families. There is a minimum participant requirement that must for the program to run.