Westfield Area YMCA
Preschool Preschool

Early learning programs at the Westfield Area YMCA focus on providing a caring, safe and healthy place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy trusting relationships and build self-confidence & self-reliance through character development and a structured curriculum.

We offer both full-day preschool and extended care options to suit your family’s needs. Our facilities include spacious indoor gyms and outdoor playgrounds, providing plenty of room for active play.

All programs are led by experienced and caring staff, who are certified in First Aid, CPR, EpiPen use, and AED. They also receive comprehensive training in child development. Our child-to-staff ratios meet or exceed licensing requirements, ensuring quality care and attention.

Our days include hands-on learning and exploration through art, dramatic play, building, nature, and quiet areas. Children participate in small group, theme-based activities and enjoy a balanced mix of active and quiet times, with minimal transitions. Music and movement are incorporated both indoors and outdoors to support gross and fine motor development.

All programs follow the Creative Curriculum, a nationally recognized framework rooted in educational philosophy and practice. This curriculum focuses on six core learning areas, emphasizing individual interests, the learning environment, and each child’s unique developmental journey.

 

We have three program locations in Westfield with offerings at the Main Y Facility (220 Clark St.), the Early Learning Center YMCA (170 Elm St.) and at the Robert & Virginia Bauer Family Branch (422 E. Broad St).

12-month program

2-5 days per week, 7:00am-6:00pm, Mon-Fri

Age:2.5 (by September 1)-5 years
Contact(s):Lena Fagan-Nelson (ext. 131), Eileen Rooney (ext. 134)

 

12-month program

2-5 days per week, 7:00am-6:00pm, Mon-Fri

Age:3 (by October 1)-5 years
Contact(s):Shannon McGillis Jackson (ext. 268)

10-month program

5 days per week, 8:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Fri. Follows the Westfield Public School schedule. Before care beginning at 7:30am is included. Half-day 8:30am-12:00pm option available for 2.5 year olds.

Age:

2.5 years (by September 1)

3-5 years (by October 1)

Available (for an additional fee):After care (2:30-4:30pm or 2:30-6:00pm), Vacation Fun Club on school holidays and breaks
Contact(s):Tracy McSweeney (ext. 423), Eileen Rooney (ext.134).