Child Care and Early Education

Child Care and Early Education: 6 weeks to 6 years

At the Sewickley Valley YMCA, every child is welcomed into a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where they can grow with confidence. With programs for infants and children ages 6 weeks to 6 years old, YMCA child care and early education programs are designed to support each stage of development while strengthening family connections and building character for life.

Our classrooms feel like a home away from home, where children develop self-confidence, self-expression, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. All approaches to learning are inclusive, supporting children of all abilities and cultural backgrounds, with teachers who partner with families to meet each child’s unique needs.

Explore by age:

INFANT CARE

Gentle, individualized care that nurtures your baby’s earliest growth and milestones in a safe, loving environment. Trained staff works with parents to follow baby’s schedule and routine. Ages 6 weeks through 12 months.

TODDLER CARE

A balance of structure and play that builds independence, confidence, and social skills. The Sewickley YMCA offers both YMCA Toddler Child Care and Montessori Toddler programs. Ages 12 months through 36 months.

EARLY LEARNERS

The Sewickley Y offers two pathways to prepare children socially, emotionally, and academically for success: YMCA Preschool and Montessori Children’s House with Accredited Kindergarten. Ages 3 years through 6 years.

SCHOOL-AGE CARE & MONTESSORI LOWER ELEMENTARY (GRADES 1–3)

Safe, engaging before and after school care for Quaker Valley students at Osborne and Edgeworth Elementary, plus the new licensed private academic school, Sewickley Montessori Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3).

Explore By Schedule:

Families have different needs, and schedules often influence the right program choice. Some families prefer part-day or part-week options during the school year, while others need full-day, full-week, or year-round care. See an at-a-glance view by day, week, and calendar year for Sewickley Valley YMCA and Montessori child care and early learning programs.

Notes for Families:

  • Part-day and full-day hours vary by program and location.
  • Part-week options allow families to choose a consistent 2–4 day schedule set at enrollment. The number of days available varies by program.
  • Full-week options provide care 5 days per week.
  • School-year programs follow the Quaker Valley School District calendar with scheduled breaks built in.
  • Montessori Lower Elementary is a licensed private academic school program serving students in grades 1–3
  • Year-round programs operate continuously, except on YMCA holiday closures and scheduled in-service days.

Family Communication and Parent Connection

Parents are active partners in their child’s early learning journey. Families receive regular updates through a secure communication system, along with opportunities to connect at conferences and special family events throughout the year.

Character Development and Community Values

YMCA character values—Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility—are woven into every program. From daily routines to classroom activities, children experience an environment that encourages kindness, trust, and positive relationships.

  • Licensed, Accredited, and Trusted Child Care
  • Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
  • Keystone STARS quality enhancement participant
  • Praesidium Accredited for child safety and abuse prevention
  • Teachers trained in CPR, First Aid, child development, and ongoing professional development

Learn More

Every child deserves a safe, supportive place to learn and grow. Find the program that’s right for your family at the YMCA.

Learn more about program schedules, tuition and enrollment, campus locations, and financial assistance.

Browse Family Resources or find answers to child care frequently asked questions.

For more information, contact us in Sewickley Valley YMCA Early Child Development.