YMCA Preschool

A Strong Start Begins Here

Is your toddler ready for their first school experience? Early childhood is a critical time for growth, exploration, and development—and the YMCA is here to support every step of the journey.

Our preschool programs are thoughtfully designed to nurture the whole child, fostering social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. With a focus on school readiness, curiosity, and confidence, your child will build the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Explore Our Locations:

We accept Purchase of Care (POC), and offer financial assistance to ensure every child has access to high-quality early education—regardless of family income.

NEW: YMCA Early Learning Academy – Opening Spring 2026

We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of the YMCA Early Learning Academy in Downtown Wilmington!

This brand-new center will provide high-quality early learning opportunities for up to 100 children, from infancy through Pre-K. With a focus on academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and family support, the Academy will make quality early education more accessible to families in our community.

👉 Learn more about the Early Learning Academy »

Why Families Choose the YMCA

At the YMCA, we do more than watch over your child—we guide, nurture, and inspire them. With experienced educators, a proven curriculum, and a focus on the whole child, our early childhood programs lay the groundwork for success in school and beyond.

Caring, Credentialed Teachers

Your child’s well-being and growth are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why our educators are:

  • State-certified and highly qualified
  • CPR and First Aid certified for infants and children
  • Committed to continuing education and training to stay current with the latest early learning strategies
  • Trained in child abuse prevention and carefully vetted through comprehensive background checks

Our team works closely with families to build trust and ensure every child feels safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Learning Through Play, Every Day

Through hands-on experiences, children build confidence, independence, and a love of learning. We follow The Creative Curriculum, a nationally recognized, play-based approach that fosters curiosity and skill-building across eight core areas:

  • Language & Literacy
  • Math & Science
  • Art & Music
  • Social Studies & Technology
  • Character Values & Social Skills
  • Healthy Living & Habits

Healthy Kids, Inside and Out

We believe a healthy body supports a bright mind. Our programs promote overall wellness through:

  • Balanced Meals & Snacks
  • Nutritious, peanut-free options served daily, following MyPlate and CACFP guidelines. Learn more: choosemyplate.gov
  • Active Play
  • Daily indoor and outdoor movement helps children grow strong, coordinated, and confident.

Our Mission

To empower youth, foster healthy living, and promote strong communities.