YMCA child care programs are designed to provide children with activities that are focused on developmental assets, the building blocks that help make them positive and healthy choices throughout their lives and become positive, productive adults. Social and educational activities are appropriate to each child's stage of development. The Y's core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are emphasized across the child care curriculum. Children learn to take responsibility for behavior Children at the YMCA program are approached in a positive manner and treated with respect. Children will learn self-discipline, respect for others, and how to make good healthy choices.
Appropriate behavior is acknowledged and rewarded.
Misbehavior is redirected. All YMCA child care sites are licensed by the state Department of Health Services. In addition, The Valley of the Sun YMCA has developed child care program standards that exceed state regulations and are consistent with national accreditation criteria including those set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Many staff members have advanced degrees in education and related fields. The programs are designed to provide developmentally appropriate activities in a clean, safe and nurturing environment.