Downtown Berkeley YMCA

About Us

The Y brings people together and nurtures potential. That’s why we’re here working with you every day, making sure that you, your family and community have the resources and support you need to learn, grow and thrive.

With a focus on developing the potential of children, improving individual health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors, the Y brings about meaningful change for individuals and in the community.

Founded in 1903 and deeply rooted in the communities we serve, the YMCA of the Central Bay Area is one of the oldest human services organizations in the East Bay and a leader in providing innovative programs that give everyone the opportunity to live life to the fullest. Each year we provide life-changing opportunities to more than 35,000 people from a diverse range of ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Join us and make a difference in your life and in your community.

Child Care at the Y

Our YMCA Child Care offers a variety of age appropriate activities that focus on character development. Your child will have many opportunities to have fun, be active and make friends in a learning-supportive environment. Through independent exploration, structured activities and hands-on learning, children will work on early literacy, math, science and social studies concepts.

Our program incorporates the four key elements of quality school-age care: daily physical activity, creative learning, individual attention and parent involvement.

YMCA Child Care

Our YMCA Preschool offers a variety of age appropriate activities that focus on character development. Activities are planned to provide the right balance of learning, enjoyment and readiness to enter kindergarten. Through independent exploration, structured activities and hands-on learning, children will work on early literacy, math, science and social studies concepts. A healthy dose of running, jumping and dancing keeps them active.

We have a long history of providing excellent Preschool and Before & After School Child Care Programs throughout Contra Costa County. As part of the Y organization, which is the largest provider of child care services in the United States, we have access to the best practices in the field of early childhood education. All YMCA sites are licensed by the State of California, and the health and safety of each child is of highest priority. In addition to providing a safe environment for your child while you work, we also include the following elements into our curriculum:

• Character Development: Caring , Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility are the core values upon which all YMCA activities are based.
• Health and Well-being: Activities involve exercise and constructive play. Healthy snacks are provided as we continually reinforce the importance of good eating habits.
• Homework Support: We have a strong commitment to helping your child complete homework by providing time, space, and support.
• Literature and Literacy: Our program gets children excited about reading , encourages self-expression, and enhances critical thinking.
• Arts and Humanities: Cultural arts play an all-important role in child development. Creativity is encouraged through drama, music, and the arts.
• Science and Technology: Age appropriate science activities inspire and assist in the development of problem-solving skills, helping children relate to the everyday world around them.
• Socialization: The development of good social skills is critical to a child’s successful path to adulthood. Proper social behavior, conflict resolution, and solid self-esteem are just a few of the many attributes our program strives to instill.
• Service Learning: We teach leadership and the importance of caring and respecting others.