From Preschool to After School: The YMCA Has You Covered This School Year

The 2025–2026 school year is just around the corner, making now the perfect time to plan for a smooth, stress-free start to the school year. Whether your child is heading to school for the very first time or gearing up for another exciting year, early preparation helps ensure they begin the year feeling confident, supported and ready to thrive.

As families return from summer adventures and begin settling back into routines, one of the most important steps you can take is securing reliable, enriching care for your child. That’s where the YMCA comes in. Our Before and After School Programs and Licensed Preschool Program are thoughtfully designed to support your child’s growth, learning and development every step of the way.

YMCA Before and After School Programs provide a safe and welcoming space where kids can begin and end their school day with fun, meaningful experiences. From engaging activities and homework help to opportunities for creativity and connection with peers, our programs help children stay active and inspired, even after the bell rings.

With convenient locations, extended hours and a focus on character development, physical activity and creativity, we make it easy for busy families to find care that fits their schedules.

Tonina Rodriguez, Director of Operations for Early Learning at the Tampa YMCA, shares:

“We know how important it is for families to feel confident in their child’s care and education, especially as the school year begins. Our programs are designed to provide a safe and enriching environment where every child can feel supported, grow socially and academically and have fun while doing so. We’re here to make that transition into the school year a little easier for both kids and parents.”

For our youngest learners, the YMCA Licensed Preschool Program offers a nurturing, play-based learning environment that lays a strong foundation for academic success. With caring, certified staff and a curriculum that supports cognitive, social and emotional development, preschoolers gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Our Licensed Preschool Program is currently offered at the Central City YMCA and Camp Sierra YMCA.

As a nonprofit organization, the YMCA is committed to ensuring that cost is never a barrier. Scholarships and financial assistance are available for families who need extra support to participate in our programs.

Spots are filling quickly; we encourage families to register now to ensure their child has a place in one of our programs.

For details on Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA Before and After School Programs and locations click here and for our Licensed Preschool Program click here.
For all YMCA of the Suncoast Before and After School Programs and locations, click here.

*Presented by Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA