--- title: "Child Care" description: "Need financial assistance? Learn about our scholarships and how to apply." type: article version: 1 version_id: "8af44d4e-c394-438c-9a7b-e214a905f155" generated_at: "2026-04-29T15:43:59.984Z" date_published: "2026-04-06" language: en reading_time: "25 min" word_count: 4820 keywords: ["Child Care", "Infant & Toddler", "Child Watch Services"] url: "https://metroymcas.org/child-care" --- # Child Care > Need financial assistance? Learn about our scholarships and how to apply. ## Key Takeaways - Child Care - Why choose the Y: - Infant & Toddler - Preschool - School Days Off - Vacation Camp ## Contents - [Child Care](#child-care) - [Why choose the Y:](#why-choose-the-y) - [Infant & Toddler](#infant-toddler) - [Preschool](#preschool) - [School Days Off - Vacation Camp](#school-days-off-vacation-camp) - [Child Watch Services](#child-watch-services) # Early Childhood Learning Center & Preschool #### The YMCA offers child care for infants, toddlers & preschoolers through our Early Childhood Learning Centers, Preschool, and Vacation Camp.  ### Y For All - Tuition Assistance The Y strives to make child care tuition more affordable for all families, so that children can receive the educational, physical, and social benefits of our programs, while reducing the stress on parents who juggle work and household responsibilities with the uncertainties of life. Through our Y for All Fund, qualifying families can receive a reduced rate on their child care tuition. Even if you don’t think you would qualify for assistance, we encourage you to apply. [Do I qualify?](https://metroymcas.facheck.com/) ## Child Care With the many demands families face today, parents deserve strong support—and that’s exactly what child care at the Y provides. More than a safe place for kids, our programs nurture growth by helping children build foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships, and gain confidence through the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Our early learning programs are rated by **Grow NJ Kids**, ensuring quality care with ongoing training and improvement. #### Choose from the following options below: Infant & Toddler Care Preschool School Days Off - Vacation Camp Child Watch Services ## Why choose the Y: - Experienced, nurturing staff - Safe environment: Staff background checks, secure facilities with entry by key\* and visitor screening - Low teacher-to-child ratios - Flexible scheduling options - Convenient: Open late and when school is not\* - Curricula that promote youth development, healthy lifestyles, and social and emotional learning - Enrichment classes in STEAM, literacy, swimming and more \* - Daily communications with parents - Affordable, with financial assistance available through application - Access to a variety of summer camp experiences - Inclusive environments with respect for cultural diversity \* Offerings vary by child care sites ## Infant & Toddler The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges offers full and part-time care for children as young as six weeks at four licensed child care sites. We use the Creative Curriculum to create a learning environment that helps each child develop their social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language abilities. The Creative Curriculum builds children’s confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills through hands-on, project-based investigations. Trusted for decades by early childhood educators, our curriculum: ● Respects and nurtures individual skill progression for the whole child ● Harnesses the power of play through studies that engage learners as young as 2 ● Seamlessly connects families to their children’s learning ● Provides intentional support for every teacher every day. - South Mountain YMCA Address: 10 West Parker Ave. Maplewood, NJ Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Contact: 973-762-0860. Center Features: - Grow NJ Kids Accreditation (3 stars) - Private deck area for outdoor play - Art area for infants and toddlers - Indoor play area (infant) and large gym (toddler) for practicing gross motor skills and staying active - Water table to enhance senses and science/math skills - Organized activities such as art projects, games, songs and stories provide stimulation - Caregivers stay with their children (as a class) until they turn 3 and move on to preschool [](/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKUr76YowCuoUD%2FbEsaNLJ4r%2BBd3mR%2Fp6NqKVyD%2BBnCKDsHgDN%2FvVdn2bj2SWX%2B%2FOni3k4u2%2B6U81Wz01Ej8w49wTMPy3JEjlvC6gnVQ2B5gnJo%2B8AEdKAB02P9o4RecQKNIxTnrpsi5D29A7IKWQ1DpmXoWRfpBUw1A8JJ%2BFDB3cE%3D&webInteractiveContentId=200123815845&portalId=6824522&hsLang=en) [REGISTER](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=infant&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=180&ProductTypeID=200,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,915,550,360,850,300,380,760,510&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) - West Essex YMCA Address: Peanut Shell Early Learning Academy, 706 Regent St. (Regent Street Office Park) Building #7, Livingston, NJ Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Contact: 973-533-1511   Center Features: - Grow NJ Kids Accreditation (3 stars) - Enrichment Language Program - Language arts, science, library, dramatic play, sensory play, and arts & crafts - Soft Indoor Play Area for Gross Motor Skill development - Outdoor play space - Special events [Water Test Results](https://metroymcas.org/hubfs/Water_Test_3.19.24.pdf?hsLang=en) **[BOOK A TOUR](https://outlook.office.com/book/PeanutShellTours@metroymcas.org/s/f0D34XlIrk29CE3Mv5czhA2)** **[REGISTER](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=infant&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=170&ProductTypeID=200,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,915,550,360,850,300,380,760,510&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=)** - Parent Resources - [Checklist](https://metroymcas.org/hubfs/ChildCareChecklistFINAL.pdf?hsLang=en) for finding child care - [Choking hazards](https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/foods-and-drinks/choking-hazards.html) for children - [Healthy digital](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/Media/Pages/Healthy-Digital-Media-Use-Habits-for-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers.aspx) media use habits - [Mental Health Support](/mental-health?hsLang=en) Infant & Toddler Interest Form [Child Care Program Policies](https://metroymcas.org/hubfs/2026_27%20Metro%20YMCA%20ECLC%20Program%20Policies%20Guide.pdf?hsLang=en) ## Preschool Our preschool programs focus on preparing children for kindergarten. Classrooms utilize either the Creative Curriculum to help children develop skills in literacy, mathematics, science, social and emotional development, and problem-solving. The Creative Curriculum builds children’s confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills through hands-on, project-based investigations. Trusted for decades by early childhood educators, our curriculum: ● Respects and nurtures individual skill progression for the whole child ● Harnesses the power of play through studies that engage learners as young as 2 ● Seamlessly connects families to their children’s learning ● Provides intentional support for every teacher every day. - East Orange YMCA FREE Ages 3-4 years. Must be EO resident Address: 100 North Arlington Ave., East Orange, NJ Hours: 7am-3pm, with after-school care available. Contact: Sharon Parker at 973-673-5588, x102. Program features: - Free child care for ages 3-4 from 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, or NAEYC - Tools of the Mind Curriculum - Smart board technology - Uniforms and more [REGISTER](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=preschool&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=140&ProductTypeID=200,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,915,550,360,850,300,380,760,510&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) - South Mountain YMCA Address: 10 West Parker Ave. Maplewood, NJ Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Contact: 973-762-0860. Program Features: - Accredited by Grow NJ Kids - Weekly social/emotional learning classes for preschoolers - Nut-safe facility - Closed only 14 days throughout the year - Programs tailored to each child’s unique needs and development - Sensory room to support all aspects of development - Low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized care - 13 classrooms, indoor play space, and large outdoor playgrounds - Free Kindergarten Readiness Program each spring - Preschool camp in the summer - Financial assistance and third-party payment options available - Full-day options (3, 4, or 5 days) - Half-day programs (8am–12pm) - Strong community involvement and events throughout the year - Welcoming YMCA community that supports families and builds connections  [](/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLKUr76YowCuoUD%2FbEsaNLJ4r%2BBd3mR%2Fp6NqKVyD%2BBnCKDsHgDN%2FvVdn2bj2SWX%2B%2FOni3k4u2%2B6U81Wz01Ej8w49wTMPy3JEjlvC6gnVQ2B5gnJo%2B8AEdKAB02P9o4RecQKNIxTnrpsi5D29A7IKWQ1DpmXoWRfpBUw1A8JJ%2BFDB3cE%3D&webInteractiveContentId=200123815845&portalId=6824522&hsLang=en) [REGISTER](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=preschool&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=180&ProductTypeID=700&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) - West Essex YMCA Address: Peanut Shell Early Childhood Learning Center, 706 Regent St. (Regent Street Office Park) Building #7, Livingston, NJ Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Contact:  973-533-1511   Program features: - Grow NJ Kids Accreditation - Enrichment Language Program - Field Trips and Special Events - Dramatic Play Area - Learning areas for socialization and social studies, science and math, art, reading and writing - Outdoor Play area - Manipulative area (math/logic/literacy/fine motor) - Water/sand table - Gym time The West Essex YMCA has partnered with the West Orange Public Schools to provide pre-kindergarten instruction at no cost to approximately 75 children at Peanut Shell Early Childhood Learning Center in 2024-25. Placement in the program is determined by the West Orange school district. To be eligible, a child must live in West Orange and be turning ages 3 or 4 by Oct. 1 The program utilizes the [High Scope curriculum](https://mcusercontent.com/9b33efc35209ac0d27cc85efa/files/5cfd58fc-412a-0ac2-e15e-50589c475a78/HighScope_Curriculum.pdf). Before and after-school wrap-around care is available through the Y for an added fee. Transportation is provided by the West Orange School District on days when WO schools are in session. On days when WO schools are closed but Peanut Shell remains in session, families will be responsible for their own transportation. The Y will also be offering Vacation Camp during public school closures. For additional information, visit the West Orange Public Schools [website](https://www.woboe.org/Page/8980) or contact Mary Rebe, Peanut Shell Director,  973-533-1511.  **[BOOK A TOUR](https://outlook.office.com/book/PeanutShellTours@metroymcas.org/s/f0D34XlIrk29CE3Mv5czhA2)** **[REGISTER](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=preschool&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=170&ProductTypeID=700&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=)** - Parent Resources - [Tips](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/preschool/Pages/Helping-Your-Child-Learn-to-Read.aspx) for Reading with Your Preschooler - [Screen-free Activities](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/preschool/nutrition-fitness/Pages/Motor-Activity-and-Self-Play.aspx) - [Mental Health Support](/mental-health?hsLang=en) Preschool Interest Form [Child Care Program Policies](https://metroymcas.org/hubfs/A%20Guide%20to%20Child%20care%20ECLC_%202025_26SY-1.pdf?hsLang=en) ## School Days Off - Vacation Camp When schools are out, the YMCA’s Vacation Camp is here to save the day!  During the school year, when schools close for parent-teacher conference days, single-day holidays, and longer holiday breaks, the YMCA offers full-day childcare at select branches, providing kids with a place to play and learn. Notes: Pre-registration may be necessary. Dates may vary by school district; therefore, parents should check their school district's calendars. - East Orange YMCA (Ages 6-13)
School-age +

Available on days when East Orange Public Schools are closed, and Summer Camp is not in session, our School's Out Vacation Camp will solve your child care needs. Children have fun in an enjoyable environment, supervised by YMCA school-aged child care staff. Children should come prepared with sneakers.

Location: East Orange YMCA
Time: 7:45 AM - 6:30 PM
Ages: 6 -13 years

Camp themes

Schedule Change Form

FAQs 2025-26

Site Phone Numbers

REGISTER NOW

Preschool +

Location: East Orange YMCA
Time: 7:45 AM - 6:30 PM
Ages: 3-6 years

Schedule Change Form

REGISTER NOW

- New Milford YMCA Program Center (Grades K-6) The New Milford YMCA Program Center will be hosting Vacation Camps during the school year at the New Milford Center (1092 Carnation Drive, New Milford NJ). Vacation Camp runs from 7:45 am to 6:15 pm. Vacation is $55 per day/per participant. [CAMP THEMES](https://metroymcas.org/hubfs/GB%20Vacation%20Camp%20Themes-%202024-2025.pdf?hsLang=en) [REGISTER NOW](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=vacation+camp&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=120&ProductTypeID=200,910,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,550,360,900,850,300,380,760&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) - South Mountain YMCA (Grades K-5)
School-age +
Ages: K-5th Grade
Location: St. Joseph’s Church, Maplewood, NJ
Time: 7:15am - 6pm
 
REGISTER NOW
Preschool +
Location: YMCA Program Center, 13 Jefferson Ave
Time: 8am-4pm
 
REGISTER NOW
- Sussex County YMCA (Ages 3-12) Location: Sussex County YMCA Time: 8a.m.-6p.m. Ages: 3-12 years (must be potty trained Children will enjoy action-packed fun in a safe, welcoming environment, all under the care of our awesome YMCA staff. Register for as many days as you need.  - Come dressed with your swimsuit underneath! - Pack a full nut-free lunch and snacks! - Sneakers are a must! - Bring a towel and a change of clothes.  - Children must be potty trained. - Activities include swimming, gym games, STEAM activities (subject to availability)  - Pre-registration required and camp(s) run based on enrollment [REGISTER NOW](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=vacation+camp&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=190&ProductTypeID=200,910,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,550,360,900,850,300,380,760&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) - West Essex YMCA (Grades K-5) Children should bring swimwear, a towel for swim, snack and water bottle. Location: West Essex YMCA Time: 7:30am - 6:00pm Grades: K-5 [REGISTER NOW](https://ymcaoranges.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Product?MemberID=0&CurrentFamilyID=0&ProductID=&UnitID=&DT=List&DS=0&SearchText=vacation+camp&CheckEligibility=True&Age=-1&DL=10&Gender=B&BranchID=170&ProductTypeID=200,910,400,700,720,250,350,800,500,320,600,110,120,550,360,900,850,300,380,760&IncludeWaitList=True&StartDateFrom=&StartDateTo=&BeginTime=&EndTime=) ## Child Watch Services Workout in the fitness center, take an exercise class or swim in the pool while your child has fun in a supervised play area. Schedules vary by location. - Sussex County YMCA (Ages 6 mos-11) ##### Hours **M-F:** 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. **Sat & Sun:** 8:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Available upon request at 4:30 p.m. for those interested in 4:30 p.m. classes.  You don't need to make any reservations. There is a 2-hour time limit. ##### Child Watch Rules & Procedures: No Food or Drink Permitted (due to allergies, pest control, etc.). Water bottles are permitted. **No electronics:** We are committed to reducing screen time and building social skills in our Y programs. Scan in at the Welcome Center desk. Sign in your child at Child Watch. Please include their first name, age, parent/guardian first name, destination, and time of drop off.  When you pick up your child, please make sure you sign them out!  2 hour time limit per day, per child. Parent/guardians must stay on the property while child is attending Child Watch.  Please inform staff if your child has any limitations or requires specialized care. Please refrain from using Child Watch services if your child is ill. Label all of your child's belongings with their name. Staff will ask the parent/guardian to return to Child Watch if their child requires a diaper change and/or pull-up change.  For your child's well-being, staff will attempt to console an upset child for up to 10 minutes. Staff will ask the parent/guardian to return to Child Watch if staff are unsuccessful in calming the child. - West Essex YMCA (Ages 6 mos-10) We suggest bringing a stroller or mobile bassinet for children 6 months to 1-½ years of age.   Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Monday-Thursday: 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.. Saturday: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. [ ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/championing-child-abuse-prevention-and-digital-safety?hsLang=en) ###### 1 min read [ #### Championing Child Abuse Prevention and Digital Safety ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/championing-child-abuse-prevention-and-digital-safety?hsLang=en) Mollie Shauger: Apr 6, 2026 LIVINGSTON, NJ – The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, a child abuse prevention leader and leading non-profit... [ ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/financial-assistance-helps-family-thrive-in-child-care?hsLang=en) ###### 2 min read [ #### Financial Assistance Transforms Child Care Experience for Family ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/financial-assistance-helps-family-thrive-in-child-care?hsLang=en) Metro Y Staff: Mar 6, 2026 When Maria Silvera’s previous child care option lacked activities, enrichment, and the extended hours she needed as a... [ ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/metro-ymca-kicks-off-2026-charge-ahead-campaign?hsLang=en) ###### 2 min read [ #### Metro YMCA Kicks Off 2026 ‘Charge Ahead’ Campaign ](https://blog.metroymcas.org/metro-y/metro-ymca-kicks-off-2026-charge-ahead-campaign?hsLang=en) Mollie Shauger: Feb 10, 2026 LIVINGSTON, NJ – When Kaitlyn Ghiassi and her husband moved to New Jersey so he could begin an unpaid medical rotation,... ### METRO YMCA OF THE ORANGES ACCREDITATIONS - - - - - - --- ## About This Content **Source:** [Child Care](https://metroymcas.org/child-care) **Published:** April 6, 2026 *This content is provided for informational purposes. Please visit the original source for the most up-to-date information.*