Early Learning and Child Care

YMCA Southcoast offers full-day and part-day child care for infants through preschoolers. All centers follow state and local safety guidelines and are licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. The staff are certified in CPR and first aid, and go through thorough background checks and ongoing safety training Class sizes are limited to ensure each child receives personal attention and care.

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A Preschool Program for Children Between 2 and 4 Years

Our preschool curriculum is aligned with Massachusetts state frameworks and uses Teaching Strategies Gold to observe and assess each child's progress. Children take part in structured daily activities such as arts and crafts to circle time, literacy, and music. These programs promote growth across physical, cognitive, social, and emotional areas. Classrooms are arranged with learning centers and materials designed to spark curiosity and creativity in a nurturing space.

Available at these Locations:

Dartmouth YMCAFall River YMCAGleason Family YMCAMattapoisett YMCANew Bedford YMCAStoico/FIRSTFED YMCA

Enrolling in Child Care

Getting started is simple. To enroll your child in one of our YMCA Southcoast programs, please download and complete the enrollment form linked on this page. Submit the completed form to your local branch to begin the registration process. If you have any questions or need help choosing the right program for your child, our team is here to help every step of the way.

Benefits for Families and Our Community

Families who enroll their children full time may receive a complimentary YMCA membership, making the whole family’s well-being part of the experience. Financial assistance and state-subsidized options, including PACE vouchers, are available to support families who need help with fees. In addition, the Y hosts quarterly family events and encourages ongoing communication between staff and parents so families stay connected to their child's learning and growth.

Building a Strong Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Early education at YMCA Southcoast is designed to spark a love of learning from the very beginning. Children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and solve problems through hands-on activities that build confidence and independence. From practicing early math and literacy skills to developing fine motor abilities through creative play, each day helps prepare children for a smooth transition into kindergarten. Our supportive environment fosters curiosity, resilience, and a positive attitude toward school that can last a lifetime.

Sippican Early Learning Center at Sippican Elementary School

Our Pre-School curriculum is designed to promote and enrich early learning opportunities for all ages and abilities. We utilize the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks and Teaching Strategies Gold for child observations and assessments.

Our classrooms offer a wide selection of wonderful early learning furnishing that have been carefully selected to stimulate your child’s natural curiosity and desire to learn.

Early Learning and Child Care Frequently Asked Questions

YES, inquire at your home branch for information.

Before/After/Preschool in select communities.

YES, families who have children registered 5 days in either preschool and/or school age care receive a free membership. Inquire at your home branch to learn about the benefits.

Child Care Staff

At YMCA Southcoast, our dedicated child care team is made up of compassionate, highly trained professionals who are committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for every child.

Association

Zach LeBlanc

Director of Childcare & Family Services

Dartmouth YMCA

Vanessa Kelly

Youth Program Director

Fall River YMCA

Traci Antil

Child Care & Camp Director

Gleason Family YMCA

Lizzie Oliver

Child Care & Camp Director

Mattapoisett YMCA

Patty Kennedy

Preschool Director – Sippican Early Learning Center

Shayla Mello

Youth and Family Director – School Age/Camp

New Bedford YMCA

Donna Calis

Early Childhood Director

Kristin Jackson-Lee

School Age Childcare, Camp and Youth Activities Director

Stoico/FIRSTFED YMCA

Maureen Camara

Child Care & Camp Director

All YMCA Southcoast locations will be open for summer!

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