A simple graphic design banner image of an outdoor scene with various shades of green and orange. In the center is a yurt. On the left are three flowers and two butterflies. On the right is a tree with unspecified circular fruit. Text on the image includes: Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool. Yurt Classroom! Enrolling now! Starts Jan 2! Ages 3-5!

Our new Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool opened at the start of 2024 and continues this Fall! The exciting STEM program connects kids 3-5 (turning 6) with the outdoors. Discover how to enroll in the unique class led by experienced & qualified YMCA educators by downloading a Registration Packet or by calling 509.525.8863 with questions!

A CARING PLACE

Children are encouraged to use their creativity, develop new skills, work and play with peers. We believe that families come first and we work to meet the needs of you and your child. Our COVID-19 prevention measures are designed to provide children a clean environment where they can learn and flourish!

We welcome children to experience:

  • TODDLER CARE (ages 1-3 years)

  • PRESCHOOL (ages 3-5 years)

  • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE (K-5th grades)

Enroll in an open program or secure a spot on our waitlist by submitting a completed Registration Packet.

 

THE Y's CHILD CARE PROGRAM FEATURES:

  • STEM-based activities designed to help each child’s cognitive, emotional and social development
  • Gross motor skill development through supervised play and swim lessons built into the program
  • Emphasis on safety precautions, health, social growth and academic enhancement.
  • Nutritious snacks provided morning and afternoon.
  • Dual language and multi-cultural attuned learning.
  • Programs promote our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility.

CHILD CARE YOU CAN TRUST:

We know that when you go to work, you want to be sure your children are in a caring and  enriching environment. That’s where we come in! The Walla Walla YMCA offers high quality before and after school care for children. We are honored to serve children and youth from 14 elementary and middle schools across three school districts in both Walla Walla and Milton-Freewater. We are proud to be the largest onsite nonprofit provider of childcare in the Walla Walla Valley.

FOCUS ON CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT:

As with all YMCA programs, our focus is on character development. Whether creating a work of art or playing a team-building game, we instill our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

FINANCIAL AID IS AVAILABLE:

We encourage all families to review government programs designed to greatly reduce the financial burden of child care! Learn more about assistance options below, and please don't hesitate to discuss scholarships with Y staff. We are here to help!

WASHINGTON ASSISTANCE

FAIR START FOR KIDS ACT

A New Kind of Legislation - Washington’s Fair Start for Kids Act is an investment in children and families that is unlike any we have seen before. This act is intended to assist families with young children by making child care more accessible and affordable.

 

New Benefits and Eligibility - Changes to eligibility means that more families now qualify for child care benefits. If you didn’t qualify for child care benefits before, you may qualify now! Families and caregivers can find out if they are eligible for these new benefits by visiting washingtonconnection.org

 

  • The act will reduce the cost of child care to no more than 7% of a family's income by 2023.
  • Reduces copays and expands eligibility for Working Connections Child Care.
  • Expands eligibility for enrollment for the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program.
  • Expands access to support services, mental health consultations, dual language supports, complex needs funding, and more.

A complete list of the benefits and programs impacted by the act can be found at:
dcyf.wa.gov

OREGON ASSISTANCE

EMPLOYMENT RELATED DAY CARE

The Employment Related Day Care program (ERDC) helps working families pay for child care, including registration fees. ERDC is a subsidy program. This means families may pay part of the child care cost, called a copay. ERDC ​​works with partners to help families find quality child care​.

 

As of October 1, there is a new copay structure for families. Copays are much lower than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

  • If you apply or renew in October 2021 or later, you will pay the new lower copay amounts.
  • Copays range from $130 down to $0, depending on family size and monthly income.

Learn more about ERDC online or by downloading this brochure:
Child Care Assistance for Working Parents (Español)

 

USDA FOOD PROGRAMS

View the NDS Long Version as related to Oregon Department of Education Child Nutrition Programs (ODE CNP) offered through the YMCA.

OUR STAFF

YMCA child and youth care staff understand the cognitive, physical and social development of kids. They support and encourage children and youth, foster friendships, teach new skills, and have fun!

OUR SITE DIRECTORS:

  • Are experienced and qualified
  • Meet or exceed state licensing requirements for education

ALL YMCA STAFF:

  • Are background checked annually
  • Receive first-aid and CPR certification
  • Receive ongoing professional development, training, observation and support
  • Have been trained in infectious disease-prevention procedures