The Northwest Family YMCA partners with the Baldwinsville School District to offer Universal Pre-Kindergarten and before and after care for families within the Baldwinsville School District.
Early Learning at The Northwest Family YMCA
The Universal Pre-Kindergarten program at the Northwest Family 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 Northwest Family YMCA Branch is available to families who reside in the Baldwinsville School District. The program is held in a classroom at our branch, as well as utilizes other parts of the facility.
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 through the Baldwinsville School District website. Students are selected through an anonymous lottery process by the district.
The Northwest Family YMCA UPK utilizes the Creative Curriculum to provide an enriching experience that covers ABCs and 123s while prioritizing social-emotional learning and skills to be successful in a classroom community.
Our program is a full-day program, starting at 9:00am and ending at 3:00 pm. Students must bring their own snacks; we do offer the option for families to have lunch provided or bring their own lunch. During a typical day children will participate in community learning time, physical activity, and learning centers. In the afternoon, there is a rest/quiet time for the children. For more information on what a typical day at UPK looks like, please contact the director of this program.
Before and After Care
Our Before and After School program offers extended hours from 6:30am-8:30am and/or 3:00pm-6:00pm, allowing caregivers to work while ensuring their children are safe and cared for. These programs require separate registrations and have 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 during PM care. 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 Northwest Family YMCA offers full day care from 6:30am-6:00pm. UPK Students can be registered on a first-come, first-served basis. The Northwest Family YMCA follows the Baldwinsville School District calendar. Families must provide their own lunch on these days.
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.