Does my child have to be completely toilet trained to participate in your preschool programs?

Yes, since our programs are academic and structured (not day care), all children must be able to attend to their own toileting needs.

Is there a discount for siblings?

No, The Community YMCA does not offer a discount for siblings. However, if you are having difficulties meeting financial obligations, please inquire about our YCares Financial Assistance Program.

Do you offer transportation?

No, we do not provide transportation. Since our preschool programs serve so many surrounding communities, it is impractical for us to provide transportation. Our Y-KIDS Before and Afterschool Programs are held directly in your child’s elementary school, so transportation is not needed.

Can I change my child’s attendance schedule?

We prefer that your child’s schedule remain consistent, but we will accommodate changing needs (space permitting). However, all changes must be pre-approved by the YMCA Office (732.566.9266) so that we are sure to meet staffing requirements, and we know to expect your child on his/her scheduled days.

Do I need to call if my child will not attend on a particular day?

Yes, our staff is concerned about your child’s well-being and needs to know where your child is on his/her regularly scheduled days. If your child does not come to the program, our staff will begin calling emergency contacts to ensure that your child is safe. This procedure takes time and may jeopardize the well-being of other children who may be legitimately missing from our program.

What are your staff to child ratios?

For our preschool programs, our ratio is 1 staff member to every 8 students (as opposed to state requirements of 1 staff member to every 12 students). At our Y-KIDS Before and After School Programs, we strive to provide a ratio of 1 staff member to every 12 students (as opposed to state requirements of 1 staff member to every 15 students). There are always at least two staff members present, even if only one child is in attendance.

When is tuition due?

Tuition is paid on a monthly basis and is due on the first of each month. For payments made after the 15th of the month, a late fee of $15 will be charged. If payment difficulties are anticipated, please contact the office so alternative arrangements can be made.

When are Y-KIDS Before and Afterschool Programs open and closed?

The Y-KIDS Before and Afterschool Programs follow the school calendar. Y-KIDS is only in session on school days. Y-KIDS is closed on holidays and during vacations. When your child’s school is closed due to severe weather, power outage, emergency situations or for any other reason, the Y-KIDS program is also closed. Early Closings: When school is closed early due to snow or any other emergency situation, there will be no programs available on that day. For such days, please have back up available and make your child’s school aware of this alternate arrangement. Delayed Openings: If schools have a delayed opening due to weather or other emergencies, our Y-KIDS AM program is closed. Please have an alternative plan in place.

Are the lead teachers and site supervisors certified?

Yes, they have completed all YMCA trainings (including CPR and First Aid) and certifications necessary for State of New Jersey / Bureau of Licensing requirements.

Do we conduct background checks?

Yes, every staff member and volunteer must undergo very thorough criminal background checks and fingerprinting procedures before they may assume their duties as YMCA employees/volunteers.