Tampa YMCA Preschool Program brand new classroom

NEW Tampa YMCA Preschool Program Set to Launch this August!

By Last Updated

July means summer is in full swing, but it also means back to school.

Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is delighted to launch our Licensed Preschool Program* at the Central City YMCA in the Tampa Heights and YMCA Camp Sierra in Carrollwood.

Patel Conservatory dancers perform as baby mice in Next Generation Ballet's production of Nutcracker.

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Coming this August, both Y locations, which are geared at 2 to 4-year- olds will offer comprehensive programming dedicated to promoting the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children. These new preschools will be led by certified and experienced childcare staff to ensure the highest quality of care and education with an evidence-based curriculum.

Matt Mitchell, President & CEO of the Tampa YMCA noted this project is an important step in the Y’s strategic plan to fill critical community voids.

“We continue to hear from our community on the need for more childcare providers. This is in direct response to our region’s needs. As one of the largest childcare providers in the nation, it is in our DNA to help develop our youth and help prepare them to learn during their school-age years.”

Tampa YMCA Preschool Program classroom with table
Central City YMCA Preschool

Tonina Rodriguez, Director of Operations for Early Learning for the Tampa YMCA shares more on what the preschool program will entail:

“At the Tampa Y, we are dedicated to providing a top-quality program that is safe and enriching for your child. Our approach emphasizes learning through play, allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace. Our primary objective is to encourage children to become active, creative thinkers who are willing to explore their ideas and develop critical thinking skills. We aim to equip your child with a solid foundation in academics, character values, and social skills to prepare them for future success.”

When it comes to helping children learn, grow and thrive, the YMCA’s preschool programs focus on developmental opportunities, including:

  • Pre-Writing & Reading Skills
  • Math Skills such as Counting, Shape Sorting & Matching Patterns
  • Conflict Resolution, Recognizing Feelings & Building Relationships
  • Fine & Gross Motor Skills
  • Social-Emotional Skills Needed for Self-regulation and Growing Independence
  • AND having FUN!

The preschools will start on August 12, 2024, to align with the Hillsborough County Public Schools calendar. Full-day programming runs from 8am to 4:30pm. (Optional) Before and After Care: 6:30am-8am & 4:30pm – 6:00pm.

For cost, to register or for more information, visit our website.

*Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA: Preschool: Lic# C13HI0768
Bob Sierra Youth and Family Center: Lic# C13HI0772

Feature Image: YMCA Camp Sierra Carrollwood Preschool | *Presented by the YMCA