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Early Learning Academy
A Strong Foundation for a Lifetime of Learning
At the Y, children grow, play, and discover in an environment that sparks curiosity and builds confidence. Our Early Learning Academy uses The Creative Curriculum®, a research-based program that meets each child where they are and nurtures learning through play and exploration. As children connect with teachers and peers, they develop independence, communication, and problem-solving skills that create a foundation for a lifetime of learning. Families are valued partners in this journey, celebrating progress and growth every step of the way.
Infants
6 weeks – 15 months
Our infant program focuses on individualized care and early development in a calm, secure setting. Teachers support each child’s natural growth through sensory exploration, movement, and nurturing routines that build trust and early communication skills.
Toddlers
15 – 24 months
Our toddler classroom encourages discovery and growing independence through purposeful play. Daily activities promote language development, motor coordination, and social interaction — helping children build confidence as they explore their expanding world.
Two's
2 year olds
The two’s program introduces structure and routine while keeping learning active and engaging. Children build foundational skills in problem-solving, self-help, and cooperation through guided play, group activities, and hands-on experiences.
Mixed Age
3-5 year olds
Our mixed-age preschool classroom prepares children for kindergarten with a focus on early literacy, math, and social-emotional learning. By blending ages, children learn collaboration, leadership, and empathy in a dynamic, play-based environment that supports school readiness.
The Learning Adventure
Experienced Teachers
With years of experience and a deep connection to our Y community, our teachers provide steady, high-quality instruction and care families can count on.
Strong Family Connections
We believe communication builds strong families. Using the Tadpoles app, you’ll get secure daily updates filled with photos, videos, and real-time notes about your child’s experiences at the Y.
Enrichment Opportunities
Our schedules include enrichment opportunities such as visits to the Y’s basketball gym and gymnastics facility plus registration opportunities for YMCA programs like swim lessons and gymnastics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Early Learning Academies are open Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Yes. Families may choose from full-time (4–5 days) or part-time (1–3 days) enrollment options to best fit their schedules and child care needs.
Tuition varies by age group and schedule. Please contact our Central or West Branch center for current rates and availability.
Yes. The YMCA offers financial assistance to qualifying families through our scholarship program, and we also accept Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding through the state.
Each day follows a consistent schedule that balances structured learning with active play. Children engage in small group lessons, creative arts, outdoor or gym time, rest, and nutritious meals — all designed to promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Yes. The Early Learning Academies use Creative Curriculum, a research-based approach that supports learning through play and exploration. Teachers also use Teaching Strategies GOLD to assess progress and ensure learning aligns with the Illinois Early Learning Standards. In addition, we partner with local school districts to align learning goals and ensure a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Our teachers are experienced early childhood professionals who complete more than 15 hours of professional development annually. All staff are trained in First Aid and CPR/AED and receive ongoing education in curriculum implementation, health and safety, and positive classroom environments.
Yes. We provide a nut-free, dietitian-approved breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack each day, all compliant with USDA nutritional standards.
Yes. Each location features a secured entry with video surveillance, and families are issued authorized access for safe and monitored pick-up and drop-off.
Yes. Beginning at age 3, children can participate in enrichment opportunities such as swim lessons and gymnastics during the school day.
Teachers use the Tadpoles app to share daily updates, photos, and notes so parents can stay connected throughout the day.
Yes. Our Academies are fully licensed and accredited, meeting the highest standards in early childhood education and safety.
For more information about Early Learning Academy Program, please contact our VP of Early Childhood Education, Karen Childress at (630) 552-4100 or [email protected]