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School-age (6-12)

Playing, Learning & Growing Together

The YMCA of Metro Chicago provides enrichment-focused care that empowers a positive identity in every child, develops transferable life skills, builds honesty and trust, instills healthy habits, and cultivates positive futures in our city and its surrounding suburbs!

Caring for Children Beyond the Classroom

Children and teacher looking at a tablet

Out-of-School Time 

Whether it’s assisting in math homework, social emotional support, or developmental assets, our fantastic teams are ready to be your child’s helper! The Y has provided before and after school care (also known as Out-of-School Time programming) for over 30 years and is the largest provider in the Chicagoland area. From enrichment programs to recess, our priority is providing practical options that keep your kids happy and engaged.

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Children and teacher outside

Enrichment Programming

The Y believes in enhancing out-of-school spaces with special interest enrichment offering to get youth engaged with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), targeted physical activity, and other skill building to set them up for success in their academic and extracurricular lives. From 3D printing & game design to art studio classes, enrichment is for everyone to hone in on a new skill or get stronger in an existing one, all while having fun in a structured environment. Enrichment programming offerings vary by site.

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Children playing outside

Celebrating Individuality 

We encourage children to develop an awareness of human diversity and to appreciate and accept the differences in others. Regardless of the program, our dedicated staff ensures children are developing the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behavior, better health, and greater educational achievement. 

Safe 'n Sound

The YMCA's Safe 'n Sound program is designed to help youth learn important life skills, build character, make healthy choices, and be a part of improving our community for the better! We provide a balance of enrichment and health-focused activities that are sure to be fun for each and every child in the Naperville and Aurora communities. 

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Community Schools Initiative

The YMCA's Community Schools Initiative helps improve student academic and social outcomes, empowers families, and develops strong communities. In collaboration with Chicago Public Schools, our community school partners and a wide network of program partner organizations, the Y’s Community Schools Initiative provides high-quality programs and services at partner schools for students in grades K-8, families and community members.

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  • We cannot say enough great things about the counselors that the children have had over the years that we have been in the program. They have gone above and beyond to make the children feel safe and welcomed every day. The service that your program offers to working parents is truly a lifesaver! Thank you for making our lives easier since 2014!
    - Jennifer D.
  • “I love the YMCA because there were awesome counselors, fun games, I met new friends and there were awesome field trips. I love the YMCA camp and I want to go next year!”
    - Joy H.
  • Thank you all for your hard work and dedication throughout the year, especially during these challenging times. We love that the kids are thriving and are lucky to have some 'normalcy' with their day-to-day routine.
    - Mandy M.
  • As a community, the YMCA has provided our school district and our community an essential resource. The benefits of a safe positive environment with caring adults for our community's children cannot be overstated. I have seen first hand the impact the YMCA Safe ‘n Sound makes on a daily basis. I am proud to call YMCA Safe ‘n Sound a community partner and appreciate all they do for our community.
    - School Administrator

Explore School Age Offerings at Your Local Y 

For decades, the YMCA of Metro Chicago has taken great pride in providing before and after school care for the young ones in our community! If you’re ready to give your child the opportunity for friendship, personal growth, and fun outside the classroom, check out our different offerings at the Y closest to you!

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Your Health Is Protected at the YMCA of Metro Chicago

At the Y, we’re a community—one that supports and looks out for each other. And when it comes to maintaining a safe and healthy environment, you can be sure that we’re on our game. From deep-cleanings of our spaces to touchless soap dispensers, we’re continually improving to help keep you at your best. 

Partner with the Y

If you are a principal or school representative that is interested in any of our programs for school age children, contact Allison Greenman ([email protected]) for more information on partnerships.

Do You Accept Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) Funds?

Several of our programs are eligible for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which may cover some of the cost of care. To qualify the applicant must:

  1. Live in Illinois 
  2. Be employed at and/or attend an eligible educational activity (high school, trade school, college, etc.) 
  3. Have children ages 12 or younger that need care while you are working or going to school 
  4. Have an eligible family income, as determined by Illinois income guidelines. Learn more via the Illinois Department of Human Services’ website.  

If you would like assistance in applying for CCAP, please contact the Enrollment Coordinator for the program you are interested in.