Our YMCA childcare program is based on a developmental philosophy: children learn best through hands-on experiences. At the Y, children are accepted in all stages of development, and encouraged to learn and grow at their own pace. Financial assistance available for low-income households! We never turn away families based on their ability to pay.
Early Childhood Education at the YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston offers a stimulating environment that allows children to develop imagination and share positive social experiences.
Our thoughtfully designed activities and play centers encourage children to explore and discover the world around them. We use a unique curriculum and plan play based activities to ensure all children have meaningful opportunities for learning.
62 Turner St
Auburn, ME 04210
Monday – Friday
7:00am – 5:30pm
Serving Infants to 5 Years Old
74 Bradman St
Auburn, ME 04210
Monday – Friday
7:00am – 5:30pm
Serving Infants to 5 Years Old
Our childcare program currently serves infants to age 5. For children older than 5 years of age, please refer to our After-School or Youth Programs section for more information.
To ensure the safety of the children in our program we use a scanner security system at each site. Every family receives two entrance tags free of charge. Families have the option to purchase additional tags. Any additional authorized pick-ups that need a tag will need to see the site director to have one issued. The system is audited regularly to ensure only currently enrolled families have access. If you have any questions, or are having issues with your scan tag, please email Mindy mstewart@alymca.org.
Our ECE program accepts families who receive Aspire, Transitional Care and Subsidy programs. If you participate in one of these programs, a copy of your award letter MUST be provided before your child’s first day in care.
Our staff to child ratio for the YMCA ECE is as follows per state and licensing requirements:
Infant – 1 year maintains a 1:4 ratio.
1 year – 3 years maintains a 1:5 ratio.
3 years – 5 years maintains a 1:10 ratio.
Children must be brought into the center by an adult, brought to their classroom where the adult must sign the child in for the day and notify the caregiver of their arrival. Please relay any important messages to staff.
Children will be released only to an adult that is a parent or guardian or listed on the emergency contact sheet. A photo ID must be shown. All authorized pickup persons must be 18 years old unless the person is a parent or sibling (siblings must be at least 16 years old). The YMCA must follow all court orders/custody agreements. Legal documents must be kept updated and on file. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide pertinent and up to date information.
Parents must supervise their children when the child is not under the direct care of staff. Children may not be left unattended on childcare property, including vehicles parked in the parking lot.
If an adult arrives to pick up their child and appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the program may request the local police evaluate them to determine fitness to drive.
To register your child, please contact:
For Turner Street
Bambi Williams
bwilliams@alymca.org
207-795-4095 ext. 227
For Garden Preschool at Temple Shalom
Jamie Westling
jwestling@alymca.org
207-713-3468
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