Childcare

At the Y, we care about the whole family. Our YPlay and YAC spaces provide drop-in, on-site childcare in a safe and fun environment, allowing you to pursue your own health and wellness goals. YPlay and YAC are included with all "plus" memberships, for children 6 weeks – 12 years old. Children can stay up to 2 hours per day and 9 hours per week.

Enrichment

We strive to provide engaging age-appropriate activities that foster learning and social interaction. Our trained staff will incorporate various enrichment activities with a focus on:

  • Arts and Crafts: Art projects, coloring, watercolors/pain, fuse beads
  • Creative Movement: BORN TO MOVE, music, dancing
  • Imaginative Play: Tiny/Teeny Town, story time
  • Free Play: Children are given the freedom and autonomy to choose their play of choice indoors or outdoors when weather permits

Come Play at the Y

Included with your membership, the Y offers on-site care for your child during your visit to the Y. Children can stay for up to two hours while you work out.

Children who are named members on an active membership can stay at one of our on-site child watch areas. There are two areas where children can stay at each center.

  •  Y-Play: Infants older than six weeks, toddlers and young school-age children. Maximum age varies by center.
  •  Youth Activity Center: School-age children up to age 12. Minimum age varies by center.

Parents, guardians and adults 18 and older are authorized to leave a child with Y-Play, and they are required to remain on-site at the Y during their child’s visit. Only the adult who signs in a child may sign them out.

Children may stay for up to two hours per day and a maximum of nine hours per week. This state-mandated limit is inclusive of all locations within the YMCA of Middle Tennessee association and is not per center.

We are unable to accommodate children who are sick.

Youth and Safety

YMCA staff are trained to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in their care. Learn more about Youth and Safety at the YMCA.

YPlay and YAC Parent Handbook

The 2024 YPlay and YAC Parent Handbook is coming soon.

YPlay and YAC Information by Location

Find more information on childcare at your nearest YMCA location.