West Side YMCA Early Childhood

The West Side YMCA presents NYC’s free 3K and Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK), a quality program for 3 and 4 year old’s five days a week! Children will be in contact with highly qualified, certified teachers and personnel. Our curriculum places a high priority on creating an environment in the classroom that encourages children to experiment, explore, and pursue their own interests. The development of independence, trust and initiative is fostered through a balanced program of free play and structure, quiet and active play, and group and individual time. Learning centers in each room include science, dramatic play, block building, library, art, music and manipulative materials. Science, music, movement and art are also incorporated in our foundation.

Program Hours

Monday through Friday from 8:30AM-3:00PM with a fee based extended day until 5:30PM

Interested families can apply through the Department of Education website here: myschools.nyc/en/account/log-in/

Our Early Childhood Center is a year round (September through August), fee-based comprehensive child care program for children 6 months through 2 years old. Designed to provide a flexible schedule for working families, our Early Childhood Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30AM-5:30PM.

Our Early Childhood Center is committed to providing a safe, supportive learning environment for young children. Teachers create a warm and loving atmosphere while offering developmentally based, engaging curriculum, where children can play, discover and learn. The development of independence, trust and initiative is fostered through a balanced program of free play and structure, quiet and active play, and group and individual time. Learning centers in each room include science, dramatic play, block building, library, art, music and manipulative materials.

Our school is located within the West Side YMCA—an architectural treasure and landmark building. The school has well-equipped classrooms, with child-sized toilets and sinks in the classrooms. Our Early Childhood Center wing includes a library, indoor play spaces and a full-sized gymnasium. Children and parents enjoy recreational and educational opportunities throughout the YMCA. Each class is staffed with at least two teachers, and many of the faculty members hold advanced degrees in Early Childhood Education or in a related field. 

Meet our Staff

	Misha Paskar Director of Early Childhood
	Bridget Sieling Early Childhood Coordinator

Interested families should fill out this Prospective Family Form and return to Bridget Sieling at bsieling@ymcanyc.org.  After the completed form is submitted, families will be contacted to schedule an in person visit.

2024-2025 Early Childhood Monthly Rates

Financial assistance is available. 

West Side YMCA Early Childhood, 3K & UPK School Calendar

**ALL DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE**