The Dearborn YMCA, located at 321 North Warren Street, is one of three historically independent YMCAs serving predominantly African American communities in the United States. With a mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, the Dearborn YMCA offers programs for all ages.

The center’s Child Development and Education programs at this location are designed to establish a strong foundation for future educational success.  This includes Early Head Start, First Class Pre-K, After-School Academy, and Summer Camp.

Starting with the Early Head Start program, it serves children from 6 weeks through 3 years old. It includes a comprehensive approach to supporting families by addressing health and home-related needs. Services include health screening and home visits for participating families and other children in the household.

Eligibility generally includes:

• Children from birth to 3 years old
• Pregnant women who qualify for prenatal services
• Families that meet federal income eligibility guidelines
• Children and families who may qualify categorically, including those experiencing homelessness, children in foster care, or families receiving certain forms of public assistance.

Their child development program provides early learning experiences to help young children develop their cognitive, language, physical, emotional, and social skills. This helps prepare them for kindergarten and build a strong foundation for long-term education.

Nutritious meals and snacks are provided daily to make sure they are supporting the children’s physical health as well

As part of the center’s office of school readiness, its First Class Pre-K is designed for four-year-old children.  With degreed child development teachers, children learn through active exploration, child-initiated activities, and teacher-selected experiences. The children must be four years old by September to qualify.  Enrollment is determined through a random selection/lottery process. It is not income-based. The First Class Pre-K operates Monday through Friday, from 8-2:30.

The After School Academy supports children of working parents and helps elementary and middle school-aged children succeed at home, school and in their communities. This part of the program combines physical activity, study time, tutoring, and mentoring.

Summer Camp offers a safe and engaging place to spend their summer while continuing to learn.

As for the success rate of the center’s program, “Our programs measure children’s growth and development through assessments and ongoing observation, particularly in our early childhood programs,” said Georgia Baker, the center’s Chief Executive Officer.

The Dearborn YMCA Child Development Center serves children throughout the day, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The programs include:

• Infants: 6 weeks-18 months – $157 per week
• Toddlers I & II: 18-24 months – $157 per week
• Preschool: 3-4 years – $146 per week
• School age/After-school: 5-14 years $70.50 per week
• Summer Camp: 5-14 years $157 per week
• Drop-In-Care: $30 per day

For more information, call 251.432.4768 or visit www.dearbornymca.org