Child Care

The YMCA Horseheads Branch, located in the former Broad St. Elementary School at 800 Broad St., Horseheads, operates as a child care center. The YMCA supports the efforts of parents to nurture a child's healthy development. Well-trained staff provides safe, affordable, high-quality child care from 6-week old infants to school-aged children so parents can have peace of mind while they work to help their family succeed.

Infant & Toddler Day Care (6 weeks to 3 years of age)
This nurturing program provides care and early childhood development to children beginning at six weeks of age and beyond. We have three age divisions that include young infant, older toddler and our unique Waddler Room with is licensed for the older infant and younger toddler age groupings. This program helps to begin the healthy development foundation for future growth and learning in all domains—cognitive, language, physical, social, emotional, and adaptive.

YMCA preschool (3 to 4 years of age)
Builds on children's natural desire to learn new things and become more self-reliant. Getting along with other children, sharing, taking turns and working in a group are natural parts of playing games or learning new crafts. The Y is an exciting and challenging place, helping preschoolers stretch their skills in mind and body. It is also a safe, comfortable place where children build positive relationships with caring adults.

YMCA school-age (5 to 12 years of age)
Makes sure that the time gap after school is filled creatively and constructively. Kids have the chance to express their talents in the arts, sports and other areas of interest, taking advantage of all the Y has to offer. Children find out what success is all about through a curriculum that begins with them selves and expands throughout the year to the universe. Time is set aside for tackling homework, with adult help available. YMCA staff knows how to challenge children and listen to them.

When school in not in session during the school year due to teacher conferences, holidays and other events, the YMCA holds a School Days Out Program for school aged youth with the same activities and character development traits found in the after school program. This program is expanded all day, everyday, during the summer break.

Focus on the Family
No matter how many hours children spend in child care, family is the most important structure in their lives. At the YMCA, good child care is good family care. Like all Y programs, child care is open to all, with financial aid available. Staff members are partners with parents and other caregivers, working together to help kids grow up healthy, happy and strong.

A Commitment to Children's Safety and Protection
The YMCA was one of the first national organizations to take a stand in the critical area of child abuse prevention. When parents drop off their children at a YMCA, they're entrusting that Y with their greatest treasures. YMCAs take that responsibility very seriously. The YMCA encourages parents to visit at any time and solicit their input and full involvement to ensure the safety of all children in Y programs.

CARING – HONESTY – RESPECT – RESPONSIBILITY