School-Age Child Care Services
(For all Elementary School Students)

The South Sound YMCA is the largest before- and after-school child care provider in South Puget Sound serving more than 2,000 children in 35 sites, 9 school districts, and 3 counties. Y-Care is state-licensed, dependable, and convenient, typically at your child’s school, from 7:00 a.m. (6:30 a.m. in Yelm) until school starts and again after school from dismissal to 6:00 p.m. Most full and part-time schedule options are available.

South Sound YMCA provides school-age child care in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Shelton, Tenino, and Chehalis. Click here for a full list of locations.

Prices vary by program. Please call (360) 705-2642 for details. We accept DSHS subsidized families and we provide financial aid in the form of scholarships to those with demonstrated need. To apply for financial assistance call (360) 705-2642 or mail in a Financial Aid Application.

What does a typical day at school-age child care look like?

The curriculum provides social and cognitive development for children in an informal learning environment. There is something for every interest.

• Themed projects provide opportunities for experiential learning, developing personal skills and interests, and working in groups.
• Active games provide children the opportunity to have fun, work together as a team, and stay fit.
• Staff reinforces your child’s education by providing time and assistance for homework.
• Unstructured time allows kids to relax with friends, read a book, experiment with art, music, and drama.
• All this and a snack!

Child Care Staff Qualifications

The staff meets or exceeds all state licensing guidelines. Every Y-Care site has a site director who is at least 21 years of age, has two years of experience, and the equivalent of 30 college credits in child related fields. In addition, all child care employees have undergone criminal history and background checks; training in First Aid/CPR, blood born pathogens, safe food handling, child abuse prevention; and monthly trainings in subjects including child development, day care curriculum planning, and communication skills.

School-Age Newsletter

South Sound YMCA Child Care
108 State Avenue West
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 705-2642
cchelpdesk@ssymca.net