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School-age (5-12)

Playing, Learning & Growing Together

At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we believe that when you create space for youth to show up with an open mind and play, you uncover pathways to growth, discovery, and life-changing friendships. 

Before & After School Care

From homework help and social emotional support to recess, our fantastic teams bring a sense of play to every offering. The Y has provided before and after school care for more than 30 years and is the largest provider in the Chicagoland area. Our programs are an extension of school that’s as fun and unique as your kid! 

Registration for 2025-26 programming will be available online through YMCA Community. Registration opens for families currently registered in 2024-25 programming on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. Use this guide if you need help! Registration opens for the public on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. 

Still interested in registration for 2024-25 programming? Register here! 

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Open for Play All Year-Round

Children and teacher looking at a tablet

Enrichment Programming 

Open the door to new skills, interests, and passions with our wide-ranging, play-centered enrichment programming. At the Y, we enhance our before and after school care spaces with special interest enrichment that engages youth with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), targeted physical activity, and other skill building that build toward academic success. Enrichment programming offerings vary by site. 

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Children and teacher outside

School’s Out? Play On!

At the Y, we know that play shouldn’t have to end just because school isn’t in session. Our YMCA Camps and School Days Out programming offer full days of activity that give youth space to stretch their legs and their imaginations. We offer a wide range of programming that keeps your kid’s brain and body active year-round — from arts and crafts to sports and games. Learn more about our YMCA Camp options and register for School Days Out at your local Y. 

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Children playing outside

Celebrating Individuality 

Every child is raised in a unique community, culture, and family. At the Y, that is not only celebrated — it’s nurtured. 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.

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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  • "The Y is very professional, well-organized, well-staffed, well-equipped, and has meaningful activities."
    - Buehler YMCA Parent
  • "My child enjoyed activities and friends. He also enjoyed the counselors. He was given direction where needed and also allowed to be independent with his decisions and free time. Thanks for all of the hard work and dedication from the program and staff. We enjoyed our time with the Y."
    - Fry Family YMCA Parent
  • Thank you all for your hard work and dedication throughout the year. We love that the kids are thriving!
    - Mandy M.
  • "We love the team from YMCA. This is my second child who attended the program, and they continue to provide a safe space for both of my kids to have fun and feel safe.”
    - YMCA Parent
  • “The YMCA is doing an incredible job, and we are so thankful! I love the staff, the activities are fantastic, School Days Out is so helpful for working parents, my kids are thriving in their social skills, the price is great, and I love the early and late hours! The y is so helpful for all parents but especially working parents and single parents like me. So, thank you!”
    - YMCA Parent

Explore Local Y Programs

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! We offer our fantastic Y programs at our Community Hubs and local schools. If you’re ready to give your child the opportunity for friendship, personal growth, and fun outside the classroom, check out our Y offerings closest to you! 

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We’re Supported, You Should Be Too

We believe all youth and all families should experience the Power of Play. Several Y 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 age 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  

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

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.