Preschool

**Completing the enrollment request for this program does not guarantee a space in our Preschool program. Once all licensing documents have been provided and approved, you will be notified of enrollment and payment schedule.**

EXPLORE OUR
Preschool PROGRAMS

Get kindergarten ready with our licensed preschool programs for children 2 – 5 years old.

The YMCA encourages the total development of every child we serve. Our caring, highly trained staff plan a variety of activities each day to meet individual needs. Our preschool early learning centers include blocks, art, home living, manipulatives, math, science and books. Children develop many skills, such as language & literacy skills, cognitive problem solving skills, and large and fine motor skills. During the free choice of activities, teachers and assistant teachers offer guidance, motivation and encouragement to children on a one-to-one basis and in small groups to encourage collaboration, social skills and appreciating differences.

Learn through discovery and play, developing a love for lifelong learning
Improve personal skills such as neatness, originality, patience and dependability
Practice social skills such as acceptance of others, cooperation and responsibility
Have fun!

Preschool Request

Schools We Serve & Enrollment Request

Extend your child’s preschool with enrichment options including art, science and nature, kids kitchen, gym or dance. Extended care selections will be available at time of registration.

Preschool hours of operation:

Location	Hours
Life Church	7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Shady Grove Family YMCA	9 a.m.-noon

Interested in registering but need financial support?

The Y believes that all families deserve access to quality, affordable childcare. Please review the following options that may provide financial help.

Option One

Virginia Department of Education Childcare Subsidy Program (Qualify for up to $200 per child per week)

Apply Here

If you have worked through Options One ,Two, and Three but still need assistance, the YMCA has additional Financial Assistance available and is based on a sliding scale according to household income. It is our goal to provide financial assistance to all families in need. The YMCA does not want to turn anyone away because they are unable to pay for services and programs.

Learn More

Option Two

Online at CommonHelp

Apply Here

Option Three

Thrive Birth to Five Mixed Delivery Grant (Qualify for up to $275 per child per week, or $14,300 annually)

Inquire Here

Resources

Parent Guide to Preschool

Child watch area with children and staff members at the Manchester Family YMCA

Parent handbook

Child care at YMCA with child working on art project

Child Abuse Parent Education Guide

Explore all Resources

You might
also like

Explore our additional programs that provide inclusive, accessible learning opportunities that nurture critical thinking and a love for discovery.

Childcare

Children

At the Y, our childcare programs provide a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow and thrive. From early learning to before and after-school enrichment, we support working families with high-quality care that promotes academic success, social development, and healthy habits. With experienced staff and a focus on character-building, YMCA childcare is more than supervision—it’s a foundation for lifelong success.

Before & After School Care

Children

Ensuring the safety and well-being of young people is foundational to everything we do at the Y to help them learn, grow and thrive. We are constantly in communication with area schools to provide our communities with quality and affordable before & after care.

Certifications

Adults, Teens

The Y offers nationally recognized certification programs that prepare individuals with the skills and confidence to lead and respond in real-life situations. Whether you’re looking to become a certified lifeguard, a trusted babysitter or CPR/first aid certified, our expert-led courses combine hands-on training with essential safety knowledge to help you succeed.

Learn

Early Childhood Camps

Children

YMCA Early Childhood Camps are specially designed for preschoolers, offering a safe, nurturing space where young children can explore, play and grow. With age-appropriate activities like music, movement, crafts and outdoor play, campers build social skills, confidence and creativity in a structured, caring environment. Led by experienced staff, our early childhood camps provide a gentle introduction to summer camp that supports early learning and joyful discovery.

Camp
Learn

STEM Programs

Children, Teens

YMCA STEM programs give kids the chance to explore science, technology, engineering and math through hands-on, project-based learning. From building robots to launching rockets, our activities are designed to spark curiosity, boost problem-solving skills and inspire a love of learning. Whether part of after-school programs, camps or special events, STEM at the Y helps kids think big, work together and discover the fun in learning.

Learn
Play

Day Camp

Children, Teens

YMCA Day Camps at our local branches provide a full day of fun, learning and adventure for kids of all ages. With weekly themes, outdoor games, creative arts and team-building activities, campers stay active and engaged in a safe, supportive environment. Our trained staff focus on building confidence, friendships and character—all while making summer unforgettable.

Camp
Learn

ITS TIME TO FIND YOUR Y

JOIN THE GREATER RICHMOND YMCA TODAY

Join today and gain access to all 16 of our locations
throughout the greater Richmond area, with no contracts, no join fees, and access to income-based memberships

Become a member

Love where you work

closest location

find A YMCA near you