The Gateway Family YMCA’s Child Care Programs Support Local Families

Child Care and Early Learning programs at the Y focus on nurturing child development by building foundational skills, fostering healthy relationships and boosting self-reliance, all in a safe and supportive environment. With programs run by caring adult role models who are invested in helping every child reach their full potential, The Gateway Family YMCA’s Child Care Programs are a safe place providing support for working families.

“We believe that every child is a unique individual. The values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success,” stated Lisa Yanez, Senior Director of Child Development. “We are committed to promoting each child’s physical, emotional and social development and supporting the entire family.”

The Gateway Family YMCA is hosting Open House and Parent Information Sessions at the Five Points Branch Child Development Center, 201 Tucker Avenue, Union on Saturday, November 9th 9:00am-12:00pm and the Youth Development Branch Child Development Center, 16-20 Jefferson Avenue, Elizabeth on Sunday, November 10th 10:00am-12:00pm and 2:00pm-4:00pm. Families are invited to visit the Y and learn more about programs and options to fit their needs for infant, toddler and preschool care. For more information, visit www.tgfymca.org/events

Registration is available for the current session of Infant, Toddler and Preschool Child Care. The YMCA also offers Before and After School care in local elementary and middle schools, on-site public Preschool in Rahway and Union, Vacation Day programs during school holidays and Summer Day Camp.

The Gateway Family YMCA’s Child Development Centers follow the Creative Curriculum. The philosophy of the Creative Curriculum is that young children learn best by doing. The Creative Curriculum is built on theories of development in young children, that all children learn through active exploration of their environment and therefore the environment plays a critical role in learning.

“Our research-based Creative Curriculum is implemented in all of our classrooms,” added Arielle, Wright, Child Development Director. “The curriculum is applied to our young children through age-appropriate activities, lessons and daily routines and learning extends to the Y’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.”

The Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening community through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. The Gateway Family YMCA impacts the community by providing quality services for all, with financial assistance available to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The Y doesn’t just strengthen bodies – it strengthens people, families and communities.

For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA’s Child Care programs, visit www.tgfymca.org or contact the Youth Development Branch 908-355-3061 or the Five Points Branch 908-688-9622.