Adamstown YMCA

Location: 71 E. Main Street Adamstown, PA     

Phone Number: 717-484-4996

Program Staff: Childcare Site Supervisor Christina Dise I [email protected]

Hours of Operation: Before School Care: 7:00 AM to start of school. After-School Care: School dismissal until 6:00 PM * must have a minimum of 5 children for each program to operate.

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: Please walk inside from the first-floor parking lot, take the stairs to the second floor to the Welcome Center where a member of our team will greet you. You must sign your child in or out on the tablet.

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Cocalico School District Calendar. 

Inclement Weather Information: If Cocalico School District has a delayed start or an early dismissal due to weather, the YMCA will not provide care. If the Adamstown YMCA is closed due to inclement weather, parents should stay tuned to WGAL-TV and a message will also be sent on ClassDojo.

Please note: Adamstown’s AM Care session requires a minimum of 5 participants to operate. Program and operating days may vary based on enrollment.

Mifflin YMCA

Location: 140 Chestnut Street, Mohnton, PA                                                

Phone Number: 610-750-5036

Program Staff: Childcare Site Supervisor Christina Dise I [email protected]

Hours of Operation: Before-School Care: 7:00 AM until the start of school. Transportation Provided. After-School Care: school dismissal until 6:00 PM. Transportation Provided

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: Please use the main entrance, sign your child in at the front desk, and escort your child to the gym,

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Governor Mifflin School District Calendar.

Inclement Weather Information: If Governor Mifflin School District has a delayed start or an early dismissal due to weather, the YMCA will not provide care. If Y-Care at Mifflin is closed due to inclement weather, it will be announced on WFMZ-TV69 News Storm Center and on ClassDojo.

Reading YMCA

Location: 631 Washington Street, Reading, PA   

Phone Number: 610-378-4764

Program Staff: Childcare Director Ashley Price I [email protected]

Hours of Operation*: Before-School Care: 6:00 AM until the start of school. Transportation Provided. After-School Care: school dismissal until 6:00 PM. Transportation Provided.

Must have a minimum of 5 children for each program to operate.

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: Please walk your child to their classrooms at the Reed Street side of the YMCA and sign them in and out.

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Reading School District Calendar. 

Inclement Weather Information: If Reading School District has a delayed start or an early dismissal due to weather, the YMCA will provide care. If the Y-Care at Reading is closed due to inclement weather, it will be announced on WFMZ-TV 69 News Storm Center and on ClassDojo.

Robeson Elementary Center

Location: 801 White Bear Road, Birdsboro, PA

Phone Number: 610-750-5036

Program Staff: Childcare Site Supervisor Christina Dise I [email protected]  

Hours of Operation: Before-School Care: 7:15 AM until the start of school. After-School Care: school dismissal until 6:00 PM. 

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: Please park in the parking lot (not the bus lane) and walk up to the main entry doors and ring the building bell where you and your child will be greeted and brought into the building, where you can wait for a YMCA staff member to assist you.

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Twin Valley School District Calendar. 

Inclement Weather Information: lf Twin Valley School District has a delayed start or an early dismissal due to weather, the YMCA will not provide care. If Y-Care at Robeson Elementary Center is closed due to inclement weather, it will be announced on WFMZ-TV 69 News Storm Center and on ClassDojo.

Please note: Y Care at Robeson Elementry’s PM Care session requires a minimum of 5 participants to operate. Program and operating days may vary based on enrollment.

Schuylkill Valley Elementary

Location: 62 Ashley Way, Leesport PA

Phone Number: 610-378-4728

Program Staff: VP of Youth Development Shelley Eppihimer I [email protected]

Hours of Operation: Before-School Care: 7:00 AM until the start of school. After-School Care: school dismissal until 6:00 PM. 

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: Parents are asked to pick up at DOOR #2 by the cafeteria. Parents will not be able to enter the building and will be asked to remain in the vestibule area to greet and sign your child in and out.

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Schuylkill Valley Elementary Calendar. 

Inclement Weather Information: If Schuylkill Valley Elementary has a delayed start or an early dismissal due to weather, the YMCA will not provide care. lf Y-Care at Schuylkill Valley is closed due to inclement weather, it will be announced on WFMZ-TV69 News Storm Center and ClassDojo.

Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center

Location: 110 Woodland Road, Wyomissing, PA

Phone Number: 484-577-5279

Program Staff: Childcare Director Ashley Price I [email protected]

Hours of Operation: Before-School Care: 7:00 AM until the start of school. After-School Care: school dismissal until 6:00 PM. 

Drop-off and Pick-up Location: At the time of drop off and pick up, parents are required to call the childcare number 484-577-5279. A YMCA staff member will come to door #19 for parents to sign their children in and out of the facility.

School Calendar Information: The YMCA will follow the Wyomissing Hills Elementary School Calendar. 

Inclement Weather Information: Y-Care at Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center will not be able to provide care on the days with late starts (ex. one and two hour delays) due to inclement weather. Y- Care at Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center does not offer care on scheduled school closures dates, inclement weather, and weather delays. Please refer to the WFMZ-TV69 News Storm Center and ClassDojo for announcements.

At the YMCA, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Our School Age Child Care programs are designed to build confidence, encourage creativity, and support academic success through structured activities and positive relationships.

Our team focuses on helping children develop strong character, explore new interests, and build meaningful connections in a fun and inclusive setting. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to feel supported, valued, and inspired every day.

Enrollment in YMCA School Age Child Care includes flexible scheduling options for Before and After School Care and School’s Out programs. Registration fees and weekly rates vary based on program type and membership status.

After registering, families must complete and submit required forms before their child can attend the program. These forms help ensure the safety, health, and proper care of every child.

• Emergency Contact Information Form Agreement (updated every six months)
• Parent Agreement (updated every six months)
• Getting to Know You
• 45-Day Observation
• Code of Conduct
• Medication Log (if applicable)
• Photo/Video and Audio Recording Release
• Handbook Agreement Form
• Health Assessment Form and Most Recent Immunization Record
• Special Care Plan
• Any Court Order potentially impacting your child’s enrollment. For examples, for a Protection From Abuse (PFA) for you or your child, a visitation agreement or custody agreement must be supplied at the time of enrollment or at the time the document is issued.

Registration Process

Most waivers and agreements can be completed online, but the Department of Human Services still requires a few paper forms. You have two options to register:

1. Online: Click here to register. After registering, you’ll get an email with DHS-required forms. Print, fill them out, and return them before your child’s first day. 
2. In-Person: Stop by the YMCA’s Welcome Center (front desk). To speed up the process, we recommend completing the forms ahead of time and bringing them with you. You’ll sign all additional waivers electronically, please bring your mobile device if available.

Please note: Regardless of the way you register, you must receive confirmation from the childcare director to begin attending our program.

The YMCA School Age Child Care program is designed to support children’s growth in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment. Our programs focus on building confidence, encouraging creativity, and supporting social, emotional, and academic development.

Our program also features age appropriate, recreational activities using music, movement, crafts, games, and other resources.

We do not provide one-on-one care; children must be able to thrive in a group setting.

Equal Opportunity

The YMCA of Reading & Berks County is an equal opportunity provider. Applications for enrollment are accepted without regard to race, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, political beliefs, family status, or national origin. We celebrate diversity and know that our children benefit through an enriched learning environment.

Licensing

All YMCA childcare sites are licensed by the Department of Human Services and participate in Pennsylvania’s Keystone STARS Quality Rating System. Our programs are rated 4 STARS, the highest level, reflecting strong standards in staff education, child development, learning environments, family engagement, and program management.

As part of Keystone STARS, we are committed to continuous quality improvement and to meeting state guidelines outlined in our parent handbook.

Continuous Quality Improvement

In Pennsylvania, childcare programs are encouraged to follow a continuous cycle of quality improvement to better serve children and families. At our centers, we use tools like classroom assessments, staff development plans, parent surveys, and team meetings to identify areas for growth each year. From there, we create action plans, implement meaningful changes, and review our progress annually to ensure we’re always moving forward.

YMCA Staff & Communication

To give every child the attention they deserve, the YMCA maintains a staff-to-child ratio of 1:12. Our team is made up of passionate, qualified professionals, many of whom are enrolled in teaching programs, are college students studying child development, or are full-time educators.

Every staff member is trained in Mandated Child Abuse Reporting, Pediatric First Aid, and CPR/AED, and they’re required to complete at least 12 hours of continuing education each year. All staff have up-to-date clearances, health physicals, and certifications as required by the state.

But what really sets them apart? They love what they do. Whether they’re leading a game, singing a silly song, or helping a child feel seen and supported, our staff are role models who create a fun, safe, and meaningful space for kids to grow. Our Early Learning Centers proudly maintain Keystone STARS certification, reflecting our commitment to high-quality care, safety, and child development standards.

Please keep us informed about any major changes at home that could impact your child emotionally, socially, or physically, such as a move, a family illness or hospitalization, changes in routine, or shifts in family relationships. When we’re aware, we can better support your child with care and understanding. Anything you share will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Program Philosophy & Character Development

The YMCA School Age Program is designed for children ages 5- 12, offering developmentally appropriate experiences that support academic, emotional, and social growth. Through a mix of hands-on centers, physical activity, group learning, and free play, we nurture the whole child and recognize each student’s individual strengths and needs. As children engage in daily activities, staff observe, document, and use that insight to encourage personal confidence and developmental progress.

Character building is at the heart of everything we do. Across all program areas, we intentionally teach and model the Y’s four core values:

• Caring – Kindness, generosity, and compassion
• Honesty – Truthfulness, fairness, and integrity
• Respect – Courtesy, empathy, assertiveness, and inclusion,
• Responsibility – Reliability, accountability, humility, helpfulness, and self-discipline
• Inclusion – Belonging, acceptance, and valuing differences

These values aren’t just classroom buzzwords, they’re the foundation of our community. YMCA is committed to teaching and building values as we model character development and challenge youth to demonstrate positive values to serve them throughout their lives.

Everything you need to know about how we operate, from daily routines to payment to health and wellness. To keep your child safe and ensure smooth transitions, here’s everything you need to know about daily arrival and dismissal.

Sign-In & Sign-Out:

All families must use our electronic sign-in/out system (on the program iPad) each day.

• A parent guardian, or authorized contact must check the child in and out every day, no exceptions.
• Please wait until a staff member acknowledges you before leaving your child.

Arrival & Dismissal Times:

• Children will only be released to individuals listed on your emergency contact form.
• If someone else is picking up, written permission must be provided in advance.
• All individuals picking up must show a valid state-issued photo ID.
• No one under the age of 16 will be allowed to pick up a child.
• Children will not be released to anyone who appears impaired by drugs, alcohol, or any other In these cases, law enforcement will be contacted to ensure everyone’s safety.

Communicating Changes:

If your schedule changes or someone new needs to pick up your child:

• Notify both your child’s school and the YMCA as soon as possible.
• If you’re unable to reach the school, call the YMCA as soon as possible.
• Timely communication helps staff keep your child safe and in the right place at the right time. 

Parent Notification Area:

Each site has a designated parent communication area where you can check for:

• Daily notices and reminders
• Important announcements
• Special requests from staff

You’ll also receive a monthly newsletter with updates, events, and helpful info. We offer two parent-teacher conferences per year to keep you in the loop about your child’s progress, but you’re welcome to speak with staff any time. Parents will also have access to ClassDojo, where updates and information will be shared with families, including photos, daily updates, and announcements.

Program Calendar

YMCA Childcare programs are closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Thanksgiving & the day after, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Please plan accordingly. Closures do not impact tuition fees or result in reimbursement.

Before the school year begins, you’ll receive an email to create your online account and set up payment. Payments can be made:

• Online through our secure system
• At your YMCA branch by cash, check, or credit card
• We cannot accept payments at off-site program

Fees & Deadlines:

• Weekly childcare payments are due by 9 AM Friday for the following
• Late payments incur a $10 If payment is over one week late, care will be suspended until the balance is paid in full.
• Returned checks will result in a $20 After two, we’ll only accept cash or money order.

Registration Fees:

 These fees are non-refundable and required for members and non-members.

Subsidized Childcare:

We accept Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) and United Way support. Families receiving ELRC/CCW support are allowed up to 40 paid absent days per fiscal year (July 1-June 30). Absences beyond 40 days are the family’s responsibility and will be billed at the provider’s daily rate. Families must notify the ELRC if their child will be absent for more than five consecutive days and should follow both ELRC and YMCA absence policies, providing advance notice for any planned absences.

Please Note:

Non-payment may result in immediate suspension and potential legal action. If an account is turned over to collections, the parent is responsible for all collection costs.

Children must have a current physical exam within one month of enrollment, repeated every year. Immunizations are strongly encouraged. Parents are responsible for all related medical costs. We reserve the right to send a child home if signs of illness are observed.

Upon arrival each day, staff will observe children for signs of illness. At the discretion of the Director (or designee), a child exhibiting signs of illness will not be admitted to the program for the wellness of your child and the other participants. Please communicate any known health concerns at drop-off.

Children will not be admitted if they show:

• Fever of 100.4°F or higher
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Rashes with unknown causes
• Communicable disease symptoms
• Persistent cough, unclear mucus, or cold with fever
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye), unless treated with 2 doses of medication
• Bronchitis, strep, or other throat infections
• Head lice or nits

If your child becomes ill during the day:

• You or an emergency contact will be called.
• Your child must be picked up within one hour.
• Children must stay home for at least 24 hours after symptoms resolve or as directed by illness-specific guidelines. A doctor’s note will only be accepted after the 24-hour requirement is satisfied. 

If your child is diagnosed with a communicable disease (listed below), please notify the YMCA within 24 hours so our staff can follow YMCA protocols, such as informing other families, to meet state licensing requirements. For reference, please see the complete guide of national standards: Caring for Our Children- National Health and Safety Performance Standards.

• Chickenpox
• Strep throat
• Lice
• Pink eye

Injury Protocol

In case of injuries:

• Minor injuries: staff will administer first aid and contact you if necessary.
• Major injuries will result in immediate medical You will be called immediately, paramedics will be called and your child will be taken to the nearest medical facility. A staff member will accompany your child until you or the emergency contact arrives.

Medication Policy

The YMCA of Reading & Berks County is only able to administer life-sustaining medications, such as EpiPens for severe allergies or insulin for diabetes management. Over-the-counter and non-essential prescription medications cannot be given. We can only administer medication with the following:

• A doctor’s order (prescription)
• A completed YMCA Medication Authorization Form
• A Special Care Plan (required for all life-sustaining medications)

All medications must be in original pharmacy-labeled containers. Label must include:

• Child’s full name
• Medication name/dose
• Prescribing doctor’s info
• Fill/expiration date
• Specific instructions for use

We encourage families to request two bottles from the pharmacy, one for home and one for program use.

Special Care Plans

If your child requires life-sustaining medication, has a severe allergy, or needs ongoing medical attention, a Special Care Plan must be completed by their healthcare provider. This plan includes:

• Medications/treatments required
• Modifications needed in daily routines
• Emergency care instructions

Our team will implement this plan to ensure your child receives the support they need every day.

The YMCA of Reading & Berks County is committed to providing inclusive, welcoming care for children of all abilities. Our goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where every child can grow, thrive, and succeed, socially, emotionally, and developmentally.

We welcome open communication and encourage families to share any relevant care needs early on so we can collaborate on reasonable accommodations. This may include a YMCA-developed care plan or coordination with your child’s school or medical provider.

Please note:

• Children enrolled in our School Age programs must be toilet-trained and able to use the restroom independently. Due to staffing limitations and our facilities, we are unable to provide one-on-one toileting assistance or access to private bathrooms.
• The YMCA is not a 1:1 care We support all children to the best of our ability within program ratios and available resources.
• Our inclusion practices follow all applicable PA OHS Chapter 3270 and OCDEL guidelines.

Supporting Individual Needs

We recognize that every child is unique, and we’re here to support them with reasonable accommodations whenever possible. If your child has a medical, developmental, behavioral, or physical need, we encourage open dialogue so we can work together to create a care plan that supports their success in our program.

For children enrolled in School Age Before & After School Enrichment (Y Care), it is required that they are able to toilet independently. Due to staff ratios and facility limitations, we are unable to provide one-on-one toileting assistance or access to private restrooms. That said, we will always collaborate with families to explore reasonable accommodations within the scope of our resources.

If your child is supported by an outside agency or professional (such as a TSS, BHT, or PCA), we’re happy to collaborate. To ensure everyone’s safety, support staff must submit required clearances before joining us onsite. These include:

• PA Criminal Background Check
• FBI Fingerprinting
• PA Child Abuse Clearance
• National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) Verification
• Mandated Reporter Training Certificate

In some cases, if a child’s needs exceed what can be safely managed within our staffing ratios and 1:1 support is unavailable or not permitted to attend, the program may not be an appropriate fit at this time. If that happens, families will be notified with care and transparency, and we’ll help explore alternative supports.

IEPs, 504 Plans & Behavioral Support

If your child has an IEP, 504 Plan, IFSP, or behavioral support plan through their school district or another agency, we require a copy before your child starts the program. This allows our staff to:

• Receive training to support your child effectively
• Prepare appropriate accommodations
• Ensure a smooth, supportive transition into care

All documents are kept confidential and only shared with program administrators and direct care staff. Upon request, a YMCA team member may attend IEP or support meetings to help align goals between school and our program. Please note: If documentation isn’t submitted in advance, care may be paused temporarily until proper training and supports can be put in place.

Transitions & Life Changes

From moving up a grade to changing routines at home, we understand transitions can be a big deal for kids, and we’re here to help. Whether your child is shifting between YMCA programs (ex: preschool to school age), starting a new grade, or preparing to age out of care (usually around grades 5-6), we’ll provide support and guidance every step of the way including developmental milestones and behavioral expectations. This may include:

• “Meet the Teacher” and “Open House” events and family orientation nights
• Optional tours or pre-year check-ins (based on site availability)
• Resources on topics like school transportation, outdoor safety, bullying prevention, screen time, internet, and social media use
• Information on YMCA teen and leadership programs for post-elementary growth

We also encourage you to notify us of any major life changes that could impact your child emotionally, physically, or behaviorally (ex: moves, medical diagnoses, family separations, hospitalizations). This helps us offer the best possible support. Everything you share will be treated with the utmost care and confidentiality.

Family Rights & Protections

Your child will never be expelled or excluded from YMCA programs because:

• You filed a licensing or compliance complaint (including to OCDEL)
• You reported suspected child abuse or neglect
• You raised concerns or asked questions about YMCA policies

We are here to support, not punish, families who advocate for their children. Every child has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued in our care.

At the YMCA, our goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and inclusive space where all children can thrive. We believe in teaching positive behaviors through proactive guidance, role modeling, and supportive relationships.

Our Behavior Philosophy

We recognize that each child is unique, and we use a developmentally appropriate, strength-based approach to guide behavior. Our staff focuses on:

• Clear expectations and consistent routines
• Positive reinforcement and reward systems
• Gentle redirection and encouragement
• Modeling YMCA Core Values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility

Our goal is to help children develop self-regulation, respect for others, and personal responsibility in a supportive and fun environment.

Code of Conduct: Parents & Guardians

We expect all parents, guardians, and caregivers to uphold YMCA Core Values and model respectful behavior while on-site or during YMCA events.

Please refrain from:

• Using harsh, threatening, or inappropriate language
• Physical aggression toward anyone (including your own child)
• Damaging YMCA property or materials
• Showing up under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Wearing inappropriate or revealing clothing on YMCA property

The YMCA is a drug-free, alcohol-free, smoke-free, and weapon-free environment. Possession or use of illegal substances or weapons will result in immediate dismissal and possible police involvement.

If a parent or authorized pickup person arrives impaired, staff will contact an emergency contact. If the person attempts to leave with the child, the police will be contacted immediately for the child’s safety.

For the full YMCA Member Code of Conduct.

Bullying Policy & Behavior Levels

At Y Care, bullying is never acceptable. Our mission is to make sure every child feels safe, supported, and part of a community built on the YMCA Core Values.

To help us respond appropriately and consistently, behaviors are categorized into levels to guide both prevention and response. These levels allow us to work with families on solutions that support children’s social-emotional growth while keeping the program safe and welcoming for all.

Behavior Levels:

Level 1*: Disrespect to staff or peers, disruptive behaviors, excessive horseplay, not following rules or directions, teasing/mild physical aggression (examples are pushing, tripping, hitting, spitting etc.)

• First Violation: Verbal notice explaining behavior of concern.
• Second Violation: Written notice explaining behavior of concern.
• Third Violation: Written notice explaining behavior of concern. Parent conference required.
• Fourth Violation: One to three days of out of program suspension (tuition not prorated).
• Fifth Violation:  Removal form program without reimbursement.

Level 2*:  Inappropriate language, property destruction, threatening comments or gestures, leaving program area without permission, repeated physical aggression (examples are pushing, tripping, hitting, spitting etc.)

• First Violation: Verbal notice explaining behavior of concern.
• Second Violation: Written notice explaining behavior of concern. Parent conference required.
• Third Violation:One to three days of out of program suspension (tuition not prorated).
• Fourth Violation: Removal form program without reimbursement.

Level 3*: Fighting, biting, harassment, intimidation, bullying, severe aggression towards staff and peers. 

• First Violation:One to three days of out of program suspension (tuition not prorated).
• Second Violation: Removal form program without reimbursement.

*Determination of the violation is at the discretion of the Program Director. Violation determination may escalate to immediate suspension or dismissal from program based on severity of violation. Please discuss this behavior management policy with your child(ren).

We are committed to open, respectful communication and a strong partnership with families. A child will never be removed from our programs because their parent or guardian raised a concern, reported suspected abuse or neglect, or filed a complaint with the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). These actions will never be held against a child or family. Our goal is always to support every child’s success through collaboration, transparency, and care.

Behaviors that conflict with YMCA values will be addressed with developmentally appropriate consequences. Children suspended from school (in-school or out-of-school) are not permitted to attend YMCA care on those days.

We believe children grow best when staff and families work together. Staff will keep families informed, use positive reinforcement, and apply consistent expectations across all program areas. Serious behavior issues may lead to written documentation, temporary suspension, or removal from the program, especially when safety is impacted. Our goal is always to support success, not punish mistakes, and we’ll collaborate with families whenever possible.

Progressive Discipline & Consequences

We use a progressive discipline approach to address behavior concerns in a consistent, age-appropriate way. Our goal is to guide, not punish, while ensuring a safe and positive environment for all. The YMCA follows the following consequences for children’s behavior; however, the YMCA reserves the right to skip any and all of these steps as they see necessary.

Suspension and termination are steps we hope not to use; however, the safety of all the children and staff is our priority. All disciplinary issues are at the discretion of the Branch Executive Director, Program Director, and childcare staff. Parents will be notified of inappropriate behaviors. In extreme situations involving aggression, threats to safety, or serious disruption, a child may be suspended or expelled immediately. These decisions are made at the discretion of the Program Director and/or the Vice President of Youth Development based on the severity of the incident and the overall safety of the program.

We also believe in recognizing positive behavior. Staff will share positive feedback regularly, highlighting how your child demonstrates our YMCA Core Values.

Child Abuse Prevention & Reporting

Child abuse is a serious concern for the YMCA and will not be tolerated in any form by staff, parents/ guardians, family, friends, or another child. Allegations will be taken seriously and will be reported to the proper authorities. Reports of suspected abuse are confidential, and the YMCA will not confirm or deny that a report was made.

YMCA and all childcare staff are mandated child abuse/neglect reporters as required by federal and state laws governing the YMCA childcare programs. Staff are trained to recognize signs of child abuse and neglect and any suspected abuse will be reported to the appropriate authorities.

Family Communication

We partner with parents to support children through clear, consistent communication. You’ll be informed of behavioral concerns through:

• Verbal updates at pick-up
• Phone calls
• ClassDojo app
• Written incident reports
• Behavior contracts or refocus forms (if needed)

We also celebrate your child’s wins. Expect to hear about successes, growth, and Core Values in action.

Grievance Process

If you have a question or concern about your child’s care:

1. Start by speaking with the site Director or senior staff.
2. If you feel the concern wasn’t resolved, reach out to the Branch Executive Director or the Vice President of Youth Development.
3. Concerns can always be escalated to YMCA leadership if needed, we’re here to listen and partner with you.

Observations, Assessments & Family Communication

YMCA staff observe and connect with your child daily. We conduct informal developmental observations at least twice a week to track social, emotional, and physical growth, support learning, and tailor activities to children’s needs and interests.

Twice per year, typically in the fall and spring, we complete formal developmental assessments using an age-appropriate checklist. After each assessment, families are invited to a parent-teacher conference to review progress, set goals, and share insights. These conferences are documented, signed, and filed, and a copy is provided for your records. At your written request, we’re happy to share assessment information with schools or teachers to support transitions or collaboration.

We deeply value parent partnership and believe open communication is key to every child’s success. You’re encouraged to attend family events, workshops, and meetings throughout the year. We’ll keep you in the loop using whiteboards, newsletters, and our communication platforms, and if you ever have questions or just want to check in, our staff are always available to talk.

Learning Standards, Environment & Curriculum Planning

Our classrooms are thoughtfully organized into interest areas like art, dramatic play, science, literacy, music, and building blocks. Materials are chosen to reflect diversity in race, age, and ability, and children have designated spaces for personal belongings. Daily handwashing routines help us maintain a safe and healthy environment.

YMCA staff use Pennsylvania’s age-appropriate learning standards as the foundation for weekly lesson planning. Activities are designed to support the needs and interests of both the group and each individual child. Lesson plans are dynamic, fun, and educational, clearly connected to learning goals you’ll see posted in each program space. Staff use iPads, resource books, and online tools to craft meaningful experiences that help your child grow.

Family Engagement, Events & Communication

We love when families get involved! Parents are encouraged to attend seasonal events, workshops, and celebrations throughout the year. Staff will keep you in the loop through whiteboards, newsletters, and digital platforms, and you’re always welcome to reach out or schedule a meeting.

Our Y community includes families who speak many different languages, and we celebrate that diversity. You’ll often hear different languages during drop-off and pick-up, and we include home languages in books, songs, and classroom activities. Families are invited to share items or traditions from home to help us reflect the beautiful diversity of our community.

If you prefer communication in a language other than English, let us know, we’ll use translation resources when needed to ensure everyone stays informed and connected.

Supporting Transitions

Big changes can be exciting, but also a little overwhelming. That’s why we take special care to support transitions, whether your child is starting Y Care for the first time, moving up a grade, or preparing for middle school.

We partner with families and schools to offer orientation nights, Meet the Teacher events, and school-readiness tips to ease the way. Throughout the year, we also cover safety and social topics, like online behavior, transportation rules, and bullying prevention, to help your child feel confident at every stage. When it’s time to move on from Y Care (typically around grades 5-6), we’ll provide information about teen leadership programs and other YMCA opportunities to keep your child connected and growing.

Media Policy (Photos & Videos)

We love capturing special moments! Occasionally, staff may take photos or videos during Y Care activities for program use or YMCA marketing materials. No compensation is provided for the use of images, and children are never identified by name. If you have questions about media use, please let your site director know.

Cell Phone & Smart Device Policy

Y Care is a screen-free zone, and that goes for staff and kids. We ask that children leave phones, smartwatches, gaming devices, and other electronics at home. If a device does come along, it’ll be held safely by staff until pick-up.

For emergencies, please contact your site directly. We’ll never hesitate to reach out if your child needs you.

Note: For everyone’s safety and privacy, video and photo use on phones is not allowed in any YMCA childcare space.

Snacks, Candy, Gum, Toys & Electronics

To keep our program healthy and focused, children should leave toys, candy, gum, and personal electronics at home. The YMCA provides a daily peanut-free snack, no outside food is allowed unless coordinated in advance with staff for dietary needs.

We know Pokemon cards and iPads are fun, but they’re a no-go at Y Care. Let’s keep the focus on play, not screen time or sugar rushes.

Clothing & Footwear Guidelines

Play gets messy, dress accordingly! We recommend comfortable, washable clothes and sturdy closed-toe shoes like sneakers. Please label everything: jackets, backpacks, water bottles, you name it.

The YMCA is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items, including jewelry or clothing, and we can’t provide refunds or replacements. If it’s precious, keep it safe at home.

Child Records

All our centers are licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS) are currently Keystone Stars rated. We are required to keep confidential files on your child. This includes the paperwork you complete during registration and may include developmental assessments and observational notes.

As a participant in Keystone Stars and a licensed childcare center, we are required to do various observations and assessments on your child. These include, but are not limited to, 45-Day Observations, Six-Month Observations, Ages & Stages, Work Sampling & Ounces, and monthly observations.

Information will be shared with parents when required and is available for your review at any time. To continuously improve the quality of our programs and best serve you and your child, we may ask you to provide a current copy of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) for your child’s file.

In addition, copies of relevant information will be transferred or shared upon your written request completing an Authority to Transfer Education/Childcare Records form. Please ask a YMCA administrator for more information.

Release of Records & Confidentiality

Your child’s privacy is important to us. Any request to release records (like developmental assessments or intake forms) must be made in writing, no verbal or faxed requests can be accepted. Records can only be shared with the parent or legal guardian who registered the child, unless we receive written permission otherwise. All releases are handled securely and in line with YMCA policy and applicable privacy laws.

Family Resources & Support

At the YMCA of Reading and Berks County, we know parenting isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to support you with educational opportunities, resource referrals, and community connections designed to meet the real-life needs of our families.

Parenting Pathways

Parenting is the toughest job out there, and the most important. Parenting Pathways is a free six-week workshop offered five times a year to help parents build confidence and skills in their child’s early developmental years. The program includes hands-on learning, group discussions, and weekly home visits from a trained Parenting Pathways educator, so families get support both inside and outside the classroom.

For more information, contact Parenting Pathways 610-378-4748 or [email protected].

Referrals & Community Support

Sometimes families need more than just after-school care, and we’re here for that too. Y Care directors and staff can help connect you with community services like:

• Food and nutrition support
• Emergency or temporary housing
• Healthcare and mental wellness services
• Financial assistance
• Workforce support
• Volunteer opportunities

If you’re facing a challenge or just looking for local resources, talk to your child’s teacher or site director. We’re always here to listen and connect you with the help you need.

Equity & Inclusion

Admissions, the provisions of services, and referrals of clients shall be made without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, age, or gender. Program services shall be made eligible to persons with disabilities through the most practical and economically feasible methods available. These methods include, but are not limited to, equipment redesign, the provision of aides, and the use of alternative service delivery locations. Structural modifications shall be considered only as a last resort among available methods.

Any client who believes they have been discriminated against may file a complaint of discrimination with the following:

• YMCA of Reading & Berks County | 631 Washington Street, Reading, PA 19601 | 610-378-4700

• Department of Human Services Bureau of Equal Opportunity | NE RO 331 Scranton State Office Building 100 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503-1923

• Office for Civil Rights U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services | Public Ledger Building, Suite 372 | 150 South Independence Mall, West Philadelphia, PA 19106-9111

• PA Human Relations Commission Harrisburg Regional Office | 5th Floor Riverfront Office Complex | 1101-125 S. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104

What’s ClassDojo? It’s a global community of teachers and families who come together to share kids’ most important learning moments in school and at home-through photos, videos, messages and more.

Connecting to Your Child’s Class via a Parent Code from the Web

Parent codes are unique to each child and allow parents to connect with their child’s teacher on ClassDojo. Parent codes are between seven to nine characters long and start with the letter “P_” Parent codes can be used by multiple parents and guardians to connect to the student.

All of the parent accounts linked to the code are separate and private. All connected parents can view the student’s reports as well as any posts that are made to the Class Story or Portfolios. However, any messages exchanged between each account holder and the teacher are private.

Please Note: Parent codes can only be obtained from your child’s teacher. If you haven’t received a parent code, please reach out directly to the teacher to obtain yours.