Child Care & Education
From infant to teen - your child’s full potential is at the Y.
The McGaw YMCA's child care and education programs are designed to better prepare your child to reach their ultimate potential, from early childhood to their teen years and beyond. Serving K-8 youth across Evanston/Skokie, we provide a strong start and a safe place to grow. Parents trust the YMCA to support and nurture their children and help them become confident, connected and compassionate young people with bright futures. Let your child discover their full potential at the Y—explore our programs below!
Child Care & Preschool
The McGaw YMCA Children’s Center offers year-round, full-day early learning programs for infants through preschool and is one of the largest licensed childcare providers in Evanston. Our experienced and highly trained staff are committed to providing exciting learning opportunities that nurture your child's cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and creative development.
Head Start
The Y’s Head Start programs combine a nurturing and happy educational environment with a curriculum designed to stimulate intellectual, social, and emotional growth. Children ages 3-5 learn while they play, make new friends, and get the care they need to grow and thrive as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond. Family members are valued as partners in supporting their children’s learning and growth.
Afterschool
The Y’s afterschool programs make the most of your child’s afterschool time by offering active learning opportunities designed to engage and expand young minds. Students take part in a variety of structured activities and participate in active play while also getting homework support and positive social interactions. Our afterschool programs serve students across Evanston/Skokie from Kindergarten through 8th grade and are housed in 3 locations: the McGaw YMCA Children’s Center, McGaw YMCA Main Building, and McGaw YMCA at Family Focus.
MetaMedia
MetaMedia is a digital media and maker space dedicated to helping develop the passions of the 6th-8th grade community. Our creative educators aim to enhance in-school learning by offering parallel learning opportunities that meet our makers where they are, while helping inform where they could go. MetaMedia provides a variety of programs throughout the year.
Summer Learning at the Y
Through a partnership with Evanston/Skokie School District 65, the McGaw YMCA offers free, six-week summer learning programs for students in grades K-8. Students are selected by their school based on their specific academic needs. Once selected, students are invited to enroll.
Locations
McGaw YMCA Children's Center
1420 Maple Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201
MetaMedia at McGaw YMCA
1000 Grove Street
Evanston, IL 60201
If you need assistance or have questions about our programs, please contact our Child Care & Education team.