Open for Play: School-Age Programs Available for Online Registration

At the YMCA of Metropolitan 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. 

For more than 30 years, we’ve offered an extension of school that’s as fun and unique as your kid. Our before and after school care programs, also known as Out-of-School Time, are operated both in our YMCA Community Hubs and at partnering schools and organizations. 

Register for 2025-26 Programs 
We’re pleased to share that we’re launching online rolling registration through YMCA Community for our 2025-26 before and after school care programs.  

Families currently registered in 2024-25 before and after school care programs get early access, with registration opening on Wednesday, April 2.  

Not an existing program participant? Mark your calendar for Wednesday, April 30, when 2025-26 before and after school care registration opens to the public. 

Sign your child up in a few easy steps: 

1. Sign up for or log in to your YMCA Community Account. 
2. Browse our offerings and select the before and after school care program that best fits your family’s needs! 

Registration will still be available in-person and over the phone. For more detailed instructions, please refer to our Before & After School Care Registration Guide. 

Find Your Y 
With more than 50 school-age program locations, the YMCA of Metro Chicago is one of the largest child care providers in the Chicagoland area. Not only do we offer before and after school care at our YMCA Community Hubs, but we also partner with local schools and organizations in Chicagoland to offer our programs. 

No matter the location, our dedicated staff are proud to serve our communities through engaging activities and flexible options that meet the needs of your entire family and that keep your youth engaged and supported outside of school hours. Find the Y before and after school care location that works best for your family today. 

We’re Supported, You Should Be Too 
At the YMCA of Metro Chicago, we believe that the Power of Play is something that all youth and families should experience. Several of our before and after school care programs are eligible for the Child Care Assistance Program, which may cover some of the cost of care.  

For more information about our financial aid options and eligibility, please visit our School-Age website page or contact your Enrollment Coordinator.