KINDERGARTEN AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

The West Cook YMCA’s Kindergarten After-School Pilot Program plays an essential role in ensuring a strong foundation in the development of every kindergartner by providing a seamless transition from the full-school-day to the after-school program, held on site at their school, where our caring staff foster a safe, welcoming, and fun program that focuses on enrichment activities that provides the opportunity to learn and lead through play such as music and movement, playing team sports outside or in the gym, and art projects.

Our staff will develop safe experiences for all where students can build new friendships, build confidence, and nurture positive self-esteem by encouraging them to participate, develop ideas, and most of all, have fun! Our staff are certified in CPR/First Aid, child abuse prevention and reporting, and emergency action plans. All staff have criminal background checks. Learn more about our commitment to child abuse prevention through Praesidium.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

The Kindergarten After-School Program will incorporate a wide range of activities and a snack and social time. We treat each child as an individual, where they are valued and recognized as a unique person, where they feel like they belong, make new friends, and achieve goals that will help them succeed at home, in school, and in life.

Social Emotional Learning and Character: Building Positive Relationships, and Growing in Five SEL Abilities: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making

Small Group Enrichment: Science, Art, Engineering, Drama, Reading and Math activities.

Gross Motor Activities: Physical activities include Music, Movement, and Sports.