YMCA Early Learning

YMCA Early Learning PARENT HANDBOOK Ages 0-5

Ages 0-5

PARENT HANDBOOK
Last Issue Date: Jan 5, 2023
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Welcome to YMCA Child Care

Welcome to YMCA of Greater Toronto Child Care. Each year

thousands of families trust the YMCA to be a place where their
children are safe and supported while they grow and develop into
their full potential. The YMCA Mission, Vision, and Core Values are
the driving principles that guide us to create environments that are
welcoming, respectful, and provide positive experiences for children
and their families.

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charitable organization that

has been providing high quality licensed child care and education
for children 0-12 years of age for over 50 years. Today the YMCA
operates programs in more than 300 locations, 113 of which are full
day child care centres.

The Parent Handbook outlines important information that will provide

you with what you need to know while your child is in our care. We
look forward to getting to know you and your child and to embarking
on a partnership that supports you to be informed, consulted, and
involved in your child’s YMCA child care program.

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Table of Contents

YMCA Program Statement..........4-10

Our Staff........................................11-13

Our Families our Partners.........14-17

YMCA Child Care Programs.....18-19

YMCA Program Procedures....20-28

Program Information................29-31

Registration Information..........32-40

Vision/ Mission/ Values...................41

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YMCA Program Statement

Our program statement describes how our programs support and foster early learning.
It outlines our view of the child, our philosophy and pedagogy as well as the goals and
approaches used to ensure healthy child development. It also outlines how we evaluate our
programs to maintain quality and how we support the professionals who work with the children.

Our View of the Child

Every child is special in the eyes of their parents and those who love them. The children are
also special to us. As educators of young children we know that each child is an individual of
great human worth and potential. Every child is different in their looks, their growth patterns,
their genetic make-up, their previous experience, the way they think and in every aspect of
what makes them human beings. We appreciate each child’s uniqueness and view the child’s
growth and development occurring in a holistic manner. At the YMCA we understand that
children learn through play. Play by definition is enjoyable, spontaneous, active, and undertaken
without external goals and sanctions. This means children are self-learners and do not require
an adult to choose what or how they should learn. When the child’s natural activity of play
is supported by caring and responsive professionals in positive, developmentally appropriate
learning environments, capacity, curiosity and potential will be maximized. The child’s innate
competence, capacity, curiosity and potential will be maximized. “[YMCA Playing to Learn]
is a wonderful, academically sound, and highly accessible document. At the heart is a view
of children, teachers and parents as capable and competent. This is one document that will
be highly valued in the field, not just sitting on a shelf.” Jean M. Clinton, BMus MD FRCP(C),
Associate Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences,
McMaster University.

YMCA Curriculum
The YMCA of Greater Toronto has a well-established, research based approach to early learning.
Our curriculum YMCA Playing to Learn has been successfully implemented in all programs for
children 0-6 since 2000. In 2006, all YMCAs across Canada adopted this curriculum. YMCA
Playing to Learn 2nd Edition was published in 2015. This edition incorporates new research,
best practices, knowledge and experience. There is more information on infants and toddlers
and it has a greater focus on the social and emotional development of the young child. The
YMCA of Greater Toronto launched our school age curriculum, A Place to Connect for children
5-12 in 2009. The national roll- out of this curriculum will begin in January 2016. The YMCA
has been involved in shaping the development of the provincial early learning framework by
sharing YMCA Playing to Learn and our training materials to support educators in implementing
a play-based approach. The goals and approaches of the YMCA curricula align in philosophy,
standards, and recommendations with the provincial frameworks below. It is gratifying to see
Ministry of Education embrace play and adopt a very similar approach.

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How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/childcare/pedagogy.html
Early Learning for Every Child Today (ELECT) http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/childcare/oelf

Our Statement on Play

Each child can reach his or her full human potential through play. Our intention is to provide
the best possible environment that allows the best possible play for all children in our care. We
endeavour to meet the play needs of all children and must do whatever possible to support the
natural urge to play. Play helps the child to be both engaged with everyday realities and to be
absorbed in an ecstatic self-forgetfulness. It ensures involvement, enjoyment, and various forms
of success. Play can be powerful or profound, but it is always purposeful. Play is a vehicle that
propels learning and development. Play and development are intertwined; neither precedes the
other. All domains of development are supported by play, and play has the additional benefit of
being self- initiated and therefore a joy rather than a chore. Play makes discovery pleasurable,
but it also propels the child into the vast realm of learning. Play provides a way for children to be
healthy in body, mind and spirit.
Play fosters skill development. It offers opportunities for gaining new skills as well as refining
existing ones.
Play is directly linked to the child’s learning. His or her cognitive development and academic
success are enhanced by the play experience.
Play is physical and increases activity levels, fitness, balance, gross motor skills and fine motor
actions. A wide range of scientific, mathematical, perspective-taking and other cognitive
processes in discovery and other types of play.
Play is social and aids in language learning while supporting social skills development. Self
concepts and emotions are better understood through play, as is the building of emotional
intelligence.
Important self-regulatory skills may be acquired and reinforced through play.
Play builds resilience and can help children manage stress. There are often therapeutic benefits
to play. Typically children direct their play in ways that address their own socioemotional issues.

The YMCA’s Playing to Learn is a curriculum guide built on the

importance and value of play for young children. The document makes,
and backs up, arguments of why and how children’s play is essential to
the healthy social, physical and cognitive development of all children.

Martha Friendly, Executive Director of the Childcare Resources and

Research Unit

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YMCA Curriculum Goals & Approaches

Promoting health, safety, nutrition & well-being:

Keeping children healthy and safe is a priority at the YMCA and we understand that the wellbeing
of their child is a parent’s number one concern. Therefore, we have developed comprehensive,
research-based procedures to support children.

Supporting relationships:
At the YMCA we understand that young children flourish in all areas of development when they
are in positive and responsive relationships with adults. YMCA educators build a foundation
of trust with children by being available, sensitive, responsive, and caring. YMCA educators
create an inclusive and respectful environment to foster positive, equitable, and collaborative
relationships. When children feel safe, secure, valued and a contributing member of their world
they are able to explore, discover, try new things, grow, learn and develop. To support each
child’s care, growth and development YMCA educators interact and communicate with parents
on a daily basis sharing observations, documentations, and reflections.

Encouraging children to interact, communicate, & self-regulate:

The YMCA believes that it is the role of the adult in a child’s life to support them to learn how
to interact effectively with the world around them including other children, adults, and the
environment. Stuart Shanker, Canada’s leading expert on self-regulation, defines self-regulation
as the ability to manage your own energy states, emotions, behaviours, and attention in
ways that are socially acceptable and help achieve positive goals such as maintaining good
relationships, learning, and maintaining well-being.

Caring consistent relationships with adults, provide external supports that

serve as the basis for developing self-regulation.
(Gillespie & Seibel 2006)

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Some of the approaches implemented by YMCA educators to set the stage for positive
interactions among children include:
• Educators provide small group experiences that allow for more individualized adult attention
• Educators role model inclusive, respectful, and collaborative interactions with children and `
other adults
• Educators ensure the learning environment is flexible so they can respond in the moment and
build on or scaffold the children’s interests
• Educators ensure toys, equipment, and materials are plentiful and available to children at all
times Children are given freedom to make choices
• By engaging as a play partner with children, educators are able to demonstrate prosocial skills
including promoting discussion, problem solving when conflict arises, and understanding how
their actions affect others
• Educators attend trainings that address self-regulation and resilience

Fostering exploration, play & inquiry:

Children are born with a natural sense of curiosity and wonder. They play naturally. As parents
and educators, we watch children explore their world through their senses, repetition of tasks,
imitation, asking questions, pretending. But what are children really doing? Children are putting
together all the pieces of how the world works through exploration, play and inquiry. YMCA
Educators understand the importance of play. They foster, expand and scaffold this natural
talent called play by being:

• active participants
• architects of the play scape
• keen observers
• planners
• reporters
• collaborators
• reflective practitioners
Observing a day-in -the-life of a YMCA child care program, you will note that the majority of
activities are directed by the children. Children decide where, when, what and how they wish
to play. Their decisions are based on their interests and curiosity. The educator responds by
adapting the environment by adding new toys, materials and equipment, posing questions, and
being a play partner. This sets the stage for further play, inquiry, discovery and learning. The
educator’s role is to support play so that learning and development flourishes.

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Providing child-initiated & adult-supported experiences:
Children and parents are warmly greeted upon arrival. After a brief check-in to share news from
the evening before; the children get down to the serious business of playing. The room is set up
with a variety of activities that support the observed interests of the children. The children might
join some friends at the creative art table to work collaboratively on a collage, or they might
work on a Lego structure they safely stored on the counter to complete the next day. There are
no expectations imposed by the educator or curriculum on where children play, or whom they
play with, or how long they play at one activity. That is for the child to choose based on their
interests. You may overhear a small group of children in the dramatic play centre dressed in
costumes acting out a scene of being
“mama, papa, and baby at the doctor”. The educator has been assigned the role of “doctor”
by the children and takes this opportunity to ask the children questions that expand their
understanding of what happens at a check-up. Tomorrow the educator supports the children’s
interest by adding books about doctors and hospitals to the dramatic play centre hoping to
build on the children’s interest and spark more questions and play – resulting in more learning.

Planning learning environments to support every child’s learning:

YMCA Child Care programs are located in a variety of facilities including schools, community
centres, and YMCA owned buildings. At the YMCA we understand that the parent is the
child’s first teacher. The YMCA educator is the second teacher. And the learning environment
is the child’s third teacher. The YMCA’s unique approach to planning and creating learning
environments supports children’s play so that early learning and healthy development is
maximized. YMCA learning centres are designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs
of the children. We have created home like environments that include calm colours, soft
furnishings, items from nature like plants and pets, family photographs, and accessories that are
intended to make children feel comfortable and safe. YMCA educators understand that children
learn holistically not in one area of development at a time. We understand that riding a tricycle
involves gross motor and fine motor skills but the play children engage in while riding a tricycle
involves many more - communication skills, social skills, etc.
Therefore you may find books, paper and crayons in the block area because children are using
these items to figure out how to build a bridge from one shelf to another. Or you may find play
dough in the dramatic play area where children are making pizza. And on a beautiful day you
may see indoor furniture move outdoors to take advantage of the weather.

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Incorporating indoor, outdoor, active, rest & quiet activities:
YMCA educators design a daily schedule that meets the needs of the children and provides
for a balance of activities throughout the day. Consideration for the care requirements, age,
developmental level, energy level, and interests of the children are included. Generous blocks
of time for children to explore, play, and inquire are included both indoors and outdoors.
The daily schedule is not rigid but operating in small groups is mandated. One small group of
children may be on a walk in the community, while the other small group may prefer to stay
indoors and bake cookies. Periods of active and quiet play are interwoven throughout the day
both indoors and outdoors. At the YMCA we don’t let the weather stop us from having fun in
nature. The children love to bundle up in warm dry clothes and head out to jump in puddles
or make snowballs. In very poor weather active play takes place indoors so that children get
the physical activity their bodies require. YMCA educators are trained to keep transitions from
activity to activity to a minimum so children get to play more. However, young children thrive
on regular schedules and feel secure when they can predict what will occur throughout the day
therefore snacks and meal times are consistent as is the rest period in the afternoon for young
children.

Fostering engagement & communication with parents:

At the YMCA we understand that a parent is the most important person in a child’s life. YMCA
educators play a supporting role while parents go to work and school. YMCA educators and
parents communicate on a daily basis about children’s activities and health. YMCA educators
keep a record of each infant, toddler, and preschool aged child’s learning and development in
their Continuum of Development booklet available to parents to read each day. Getting to know
family members is critical as an educator and including family members in program helps a child
to feel a greater sense of belonging. Other strategies to engage parents and gain input include:

• Documentations that describe play and its connection to learning

• Parent/Educator interviews
• Celebrations & events
• Parent surveys
• Displays of children’s artwork, sculptures, and creations
• Photographs of children at play
• Posting planning documents that include observations of children’s interests and activities
introduced by YMCA educator

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Involving community partner:
While our range of community partners is broad, the largest and most important is the education
system. Many of our centres are located in schools, so relationships with principals, faculty and staff
are critical. The YMCA works closely with local community agencies and partners in order to support
the children and families in our programs. We view the community as a valuable resource and our
staff plan learning opportunities to engage the community in our programs. The YMCA actively
seeks out opportunities to share our knowledge and to learn from others in the community through
networking opportunities, community planning tables and conferences.

Supporting educators’ continuous professional learning:

The YMCA is committed to the ongoing professional development of all our educators. After
all, what the educator learns informs practice and the benefit is passed onto the children. YMCA
educators attend a series of YMCA curriculum training sessions throughout their career with the
YMCA. Additionally, the YMCA provides opportunities for educators to attend external learning
events and conferences and keep legislated training requirements like Standard First Aid & Infant
and Child CPR up to date. On a day-to-day basis the child care supervisor is responsible for the
leadership, mentorship, coaching and development of educators.
Based on the learning needs of the educators the supervisor may meet with staff to suggest
strategies, conduct learning huddles to focus on a particular area of YMCA curriculum with the
entire team, conduct regular staff meetings to reflect and plan, invite speakers from other YMCA
departments or community agencies to attend the centre, or provide materials including links,
articles, and various readings to supplement educator’s professional learning.

Documentation:
• YMCA educators participate in a continuous cycle of observation
• Documenting play and its significance
• Determining the children’s interests
• Planning activities that support the interests
• Discussion with team members
• Reflection that informs the planning of activities and the learning environment.
Links are made between theory, research, YMCA curriculum, the YMCA Program Statement,
government pedagogy, and children’s interests to inform the planning decisions YMCA educators
make. You will see this cycle reflected in the toys, materials, and equipment provided in the play
areas, the furniture arrangement, the creative work of children, the activities children are engaging
in, on the planning documents posted weekly for parents to read and discuss with the educators,
in individual children’s Continuum of Development booklets, and in photographs and written
descriptions of activities. This process of continuous program assessment is called reflective
practice. Daily educators are observing and engaging with children and evaluating the effectiveness
of the learning environment to build on children’s interests. Weekly they are reviewing planning
and discussing with their team and supervisor to ensure they are supporting children’s learning and
development and monthly they are meeting as a team to look back on what did and didn’t work and
then plan for the future.

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Our Staff

YMCA Early Childhood Educators come with a wide background of education and experience.
Our staff must go through a rigorous screening process that includes demonstrating their
values and skills, providing a police reference check that is renewed every 3 years, and holding
a valid Standard First Aid and Infant and Child CPR certification. Once selected, new YMCA staff
participate in orientation and training on YMCA policies and procedures, Ministry of Education
regulations, and YMCA curriculum.

Our Early Childhood Educators are trained to:

• Communicate regularly to families about their child’s progress

• Plan classroom activities based on their knowledge of early childhood development
• Observe and document the progress of each individual child
• Practice the YMCA’s high standards of child safety and protection

At the YMCA we recognize the importance of continued professional learning and have
developed an extensive series of learning modules that support YMCA Early Childhood
Educators to gain a deeper understanding of child development, play, play partnership, program
planning, extension of play and scaffolding of learning, effective communication, and providing
positive learning environments.

College of Early Childhood Educators

The College of Early Childhood Educators is the professional self-regulatory body for registered
early childhood educators (RECE) in Ontario. The College’s role is to protect the public interest
by setting requirements for registration to practice as a RECE, setting ethical and professional
standards and holding RECEs accountable for their practice. RECEs are trained in child
development and the planning and delivery of play-based learning in child care programs.
YMCA staff with an early childhood education diploma or equivalent qualifications degree must
be current members of the College in good standing. RECEs must renew their membership with
the College on an annual basis.

Our Volunteers and Students on Educational Placements

YMCA child care programs are enhanced by the involvement of volunteers and placement
students. Volunteers and placement students are always under the supervision of a YMCA staff
member and never left alone with children. All volunteers and placement students must provide
a police reference check before interacting with children and are required to adhere to all YMCA
policies and procedures and Ministry of Education regulations.

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Positive Behaviour
The YMCA believes that it is the role of the adult in a child’s life to support them to learn how
to interact successfully with the world around them including other children, adults and the
environment.
YMCA Early Childhood Educators set the stage for positive behaviour by implementing the
following approaches:

• Building dependable, positive and nurturing relationships with children and their families
• Fostering healthy social connections with other children
• Responding to each child’s individual developmental needs through observation and
reaction to cues
• Providing small group experiences which allow for more individualized adult attention
• Role modelling inclusive, respectful and collaborative interactions with children and other
adults
• Ensuring the learning environment is flexible and materials are plentiful and available to
children at all times
• Providing children with the freedom to make choices
• Engaging as a play partner with children, to demonstrate pro-social skills including
promoting discussion, problem solving when conflict arises and understanding how our
actions affect others
• Attending trainings that address developing self-regulation and resilience in children

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Prohibited Practices
A prohibited practice is any behaviour by a staff, volunteer or placement student that puts
children at risk or that can inhibit a child’s growth, self-esteem or healthy development. All
YMCA staff, volunteers and placement students are aware that the following practices are
unacceptable at the YMCA.

• Corporal punishment
• Physical restraint of a child, such as confining the child to a high chair, car seat, stroller or
other device for the purpose of discipline in lieu of supervision, unless the physical restraint is
for the purpose of preventing a child from hurting themselves or others. Is used only as a last
resort and only until the risk of injury is no longer imminent.
• Any form of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual or neglect)
• Depriving a child of basic needs including food, drink, shelter, sleep, toilet use, clothing or
bedding.
• Inflicting any bodily harm on children including making children eat or drink against their will.
• Leaving children unsupervised.
• Deliberately using harsh or degrading measures or threats, use of derogatory language
directed at, or used in the presence of a child that would humiliate, shame or frighten the
child or undermine his or her self-respect divinity or self-worth.
• Locking the exits of the child care centre for the purpose of confining a child or confining
a child in an area or room without adult supervision, unless such confinement occurs during
an emergency and is required as part of the licensee’s emergency management policies and
procedures.
• Using a locked or lockable room or structure to confine a child when separating them from
other children.
• Interacting or relating to children or vulnerable person outside of a YMCA program activity.
(E.g. Weekend home visits, baby-sitting, on line chatting etc.)

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Our Families our Partners

At the YMCA we understand that the most important people in a child’s life are their family.
YMCA Early Childhood Educators play a supporting role while parents go to work or school.
Involving, consulting with, and informing family members about the YMCA program helps a
child feel a greater sense of belonging.

Diversity, Equity, Social Inclusion and Belonging

The YMCA is committed to creating and sustaining an environment that celebrates diversity and
appreciates the dignity and worth of all members of the community.
YMCA programs are designed to develop children in spirit, mind and body. We believe every
child is a unique individual and adds value to our programs. YMCA educators strive to ensure
the environment and programs are adapted to meet the needs of all children and when required
apply to our community partners who can enhance our ability to support children.

Resolving Concerns and Issues

The YMCA understands that a child’s family are the most important people in their life. YMCA
educators and supervisors play a supporting role while families are at work or school. YMCA
staff are committed to connecting, partnering and engaging parents to provide the best
possible care for each child. Daily conversations benefit the child, family, and the staff. They
help provide consistency for the child, support staff to understand the child and therefore plan
for their success, and give families the opportunity to be part of their child’s day. The following
procedure guides families, staff, supervisors and YMCA Management when issues and concerns
occur.
In situations where issues and concerns arise, YMCA staff educators and supervisors together
with the family and YMCA Management will work as a team to reach a resolution in a timely,
confidential, fair and consistent manner.
The YMCA is guided by values that influence our actions and the decisions we make. The YMCA
values are: Caring, Health, Honesty, Inclusiveness, Respect and Responsibility. The YMCA is a
shared experience for everyone to enjoy. When conflict arises it is expected that the conflict
will be resolved in a respectful manner in keeping with the YMCA Values.

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Type of issue/ YMCA staff receiving
Family shall:
concern: issue/concern shall:
Daily program Staff will listen and seek to understand the family member’s issue/
issues/concerns concern, and may attempt to resolve it immediately. If follow-up is
Families are required or if the staff is involved in supervising children the staff will
(E.g. health encouraged to speak record the contact information including name, phone number, and
care including directly with their email address (if any) and inform the family member of the best time
medical needs/ child’s educator for a follow-up discussion (e.g. set up a phone call or meeting).
medication or about any questions,
allergies, special issues or concerns If the staff receiving the issue/concern thinks they are not the
instructions for either in person, by appropriate person to address the issue/concern they will refer the
feeding, sleeping, phone or by email. family member to the correct person; typically the supervisor, and
or activities, toilet provide contact information.
training, child’s
adjustment to Staff will record all issues/concerns and the resolution in the Daily
program, other Written Record/Log Book.
children including If issue/concern is unresolved:
bullying, etc.) Families are encouraged to speak directly with the supervisor if the
educator is unable to resolve their issue/concern.

Daily program Families are Supervisor will listen and seek to understand the family member’s
issues/concerns encouraged to speak issue/concern, and may attempt to resolve it immediately. If follow-
directly with the up is required or if the supervisor is involved in supervising children
(E.g. cleanliness, supervisor about any the supervisor will record the contact information including name,
hours of questions, issues or phone number, and email address (if any) and inform the family
operation, concerns either in member of the best time for a follow-up discussion (e.g. set up a
fees/payment, person, by phone or phone call or meeting).
menu variety, by email.
other parents, Supervisors will record all issues/concerns and the resolution in the
busing to Daily Written Record/Log Book.
school/transition,
etc.) If issue/concern is unresolved:
In most cases, talking with the supervisor will resolve all issues/
concerns. If for some reason a resolution cannot be reached, the
supervisor will provide contact information for the YMCA Manager
responsible for the region.

Conduct of staff/ Family members If there is an allegation/suspicion of child abuse, the supervisor will
student/volunteer are encouraged to inform the family member of his/her duty to report suspected child
or supervisor speak directly with abuse to a child protection agency and will provide the contact
the supervisor about information.
any questions, issues
or concerns either in Supervisors will:
person, by phone or • Make a report to the same child protection agency.
by email. • Record all suspicions of abuse using the YMCA Child Abuse
Reporting Kit.
If the family member • File a Serious Occurrence Report to the Ministry of Education
is concerned about within 24 hours of receiving the report from the family member.
the conduct of the
supervisor they are Supervisors will share the outcome (founded/unfounded) of any
encouraged to speak investigation by a child protection agency when completed with the
directly to YMCA family member.
Management. Disciplinary information will not be shared.

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Protection of Children and Vulnerable Persons
Everyone, including members of the public and professionals who work closely with children
share a responsibility to protect children and vulnerable persons from harm. See Duty to Report1
The YMCA recognizes its responsibility to promote safe environments and practices to protect
children and vulnerable persons from abuse.
YMCA child care staff are:
• Legally responsible to immediately make a report to a child protection agency if they suspect
abuse.
• Responsible to make the decision to report suspected abuse without consulting their
supervisor or colleagues.*
• Accountable to ensure the report remains confidential and sealed. Details of the report
are not to be shared with anyone, this includes the supervisor, other staff, or parent unless
authorized by the child protection agency.

Duty to Report is defined under section 72(1) of the Ontario Child and Family Services Act and sets out what
1

must be reported to a child protection agency (e.g. Children’s Aid Society - CAS).

*No staff/student/volunteer or parent shall advise someone not to report suspicions of abuse, nor try to stop
the person from reporting or consulting with a child protection agency.*

Escalation process for unresolved issues or concerns:

If a family member has been unable to resolve their issue/concern through the informal process
described above, a formal complaint may be made in writing (by mail or email) to:

Mailing Address: YMCA of Greater Toronto Contact Centre

2200 Yonge St., Unit 300
Toronto, Ontario M4S 2C6
Email Address: memberservices@ymcagta.org

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Please provide contact information, as the YMCA will not respond to anonymous complaints. If
you are unable to submit a formal complaint in this manner due to a disability, you may contact
the YMCA to request accommodation, which will be provided in keeping with the YMCA’s
Accessibility and Customer Services Policy available on our website.

Formal Complaint Process

The YMCA is committed to a fair process when dealing with complaints. Families will be treated
with respect and kept informed of the status of their complaint. The YMCA will respond within
10 business days to confirm that your complaint has been received. The YMCA aims to resolve
all complaints within 30 days of receipt. If this timeline cannot be met, the family will be
informed of the reasons and given a revised timeframe. Upon completion of a review, the family
will be provided with reasons for the decision relating to the complaint, which will complete the
formal complaint process.

Confidentiality/No Retaliation
Any YMCA staff that receives a complaint or concern shall maintain confidentiality by not
discussing allegations with other individuals, except on a ‘need to know’ basis. For example, in
some programs that receive funding from partner agencies, complaints may need to be shared
with those agencies. No person who in good faith and under this policy submits a concern or
complaint shall suffer retaliation.

Records
A summary of all formal complaints, including number and type, will be provided to the Board/
Board Committee on an annual basis.

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YMCA Child Care Programs

Hours of Operation
At the YMCA our standard hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Some locations are
open for extended hours to accommodate the needs of families who commute a long distance
to work or school. Program operates year round. Visit our website ymcagta.org for the hours of
operation of the centres closest to you.

Communication with Families

At the YMCA we know how important it is to you as a parent to have all the details of your
child’s day at the YMCA. YMCA Early Childhood Educators keep a daily record of your infant
or toddler’s nap times, feedings, diaper changes, and any changes in health observed. We’ve
included a space for families to add details from the evening before so we can best meet your
infant’s individual needs the next day. All individual children’s activities are recorded within the
Weemarkable app so that YMCA educators and parents can see each child’s progress.

Additional communication tools YMCA staff provide for families about the program and their
child’s development are:

• Daily face to face communication with families upon arrival and departure times.
• Staff use YMCA’s Weemarkable app to share detailed recaps of each child’s day, including
new developments made and milestones achieved
• Weekly program documentation highlighting learning that occurred during a play experience
• Two times a year families are provided the opportunity to have a one-one meeting with their
child’s educator to discuss their child’s development.

What will your child need at the YMCA Child Care program?
By packing a few essential items for your child and providing any specific details about your
child’s health, rest, feeding, and activity, you help the YMCA staff to provide individualized care
for your child.

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Infant (0 - 18 months)
Ratio of Adults to Children - 1:3
What to bring for your infant: (Please ensure all of your child’s belongings are clearly labelled
with their name)
• Diapers, wipes and any creams or lotions labelled with your infant’s name and written
instructions for application
• Bottles/sip cups
• Formula (labelled with your infants’ full name, the date prepared) or expressed milk labelled
with your infant’s full name, the mother’s full name, date milk expressed) and written
instructions for feeding (baby foods and whole milk or 2% milk will be provided by the
YMCA)
• Changes of clothing
• Seasonal outdoor clothing

Toddler (18 months - 30 months)

Ratio of Adults to Children - 1:5
What to bring for your toddler: (Please ensure all of your child’s belongings are clearly labelled
with their name)
• Diapers, wipes and any creams or lotions labelled with your toddler’s name and written
instructions for application
• Bottles/sip cups
• Formula (labelled with your toddlers’ full name, the date prepared) or expressed milk labelled
with your toddler’s full name, the mother’s full name, date milk expressed) and written
instructions for feeding (baby foods and whole milk or 2% milk will be provided by the YMCA)
• Changes of clothing
• Seasonal outdoor clothing
• Blanket and/or sleep toy for rest time

Preschool (2 1/2 years – 5 years)

Ratio of Adults to Child - 1:8
What to bring for your preschooler: (Please ensure all of your child’s belongings are clearly
labelled with their name)
• Pull ups or training pants (for toilet training)
• Change of clothing
• Seasonal outdoor clothing
• Blanket and/or sleep toy for rest time

19
YMCA Program Procedures

Sleep Supervision and Position Requirements

YMCA staff are required to follow the guidelines set out in the Joint Statement on Safe Sleep
from the Public Health Agency of Canada which states that infants under 12 months of age are
to be placed on their backs to sleep until such time that they can independently flip over onto
their stomachs. Your physician may recommend otherwise in writing. The Joint Statement also
sets out that infants under 12 months should not have blankets or toys in the crib. Families will
be consulted respecting their child’s sleeping arrangements at the time the child is enrolled
and at any other appropriate time, such as at transitions between programs or rooms or upon
a parent’s/guardian’s request. YMCA staff routinely perform direct visual checks of sleeping
children that are documented on a chart. Direct visual checks of infants are performed every 15
minutes and every 30 minutes for toddlers. Anytime a staff observes a significant change in a
child’s sleeping patterns or health during sleep it will be communicated to parents/guardians.

Hand and Respiratory Hygiene

Regular hand hygiene (i.e. washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer) and
respiratory hygiene (i.e. coughing into arm, washing hands after discarding a used tissue) are
among the most important proactive strategies to reduce illness.
YMCA educators include fun learning activities that teach children about hand and respiratory
hygiene and plan for regular hand washing routines throughout the day (e.g. arrival at program,
after using washroom, before and after eating, before and after playing outdoors, after using a
tissue).
When running water is not available, staff supervise children over the age of 2 to use hand
sanitizer. If required, wipes are provided for children under 2.

Nutrition
YMCA full day child care programs for children 0-5 years of age, offer a variety of nutritious
morning snacks, lunches and afternoon snacks prepared by a caterer or on-site cook. The
current and following week’s menus are posted for your information.
Infants are fed according to their individual needs. Families of infants are to provide written
instructions feeding instructions with regard to feeding.
To ensure your child receives a well-balanced meal, our menus follow the Government of
Canada Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants: Recommendations for Six to 24 Months and/or
Canada’s Food Guide: Healthy Eating Recommendations.

20
Food Sent from Home
Due to children with allergies and food restrictions the YMCA discourages sending any food
from home. However, families of children with food restrictions and/or complex allergies may
be granted an exception by the supervisor to bring food from home. When food is sent from
home it is an expectation that the Guidelines for Bagged Lunch/Snack are followed:
Parent Responsibilities:
• Lunch/snack contents meet the Canada’s Food Guide guidelines.
• Lunch/snack is provided in a lunch bag labelled with child’s name with an ice pack.
• Foods that may have come in contact with nuts are not provided in child’s lunch.
• Follow the Guidelines for Bagged Lunches/Snacks and be aware of the known allergens of
children in the YMCA program.
Staff Responsibilities:
• All surfaces will be cleaned and disinfected prior to and after the children have finished their
lunch/snack.
• Staff will ensure that their hands are washed before assisting children with their lunch/snack.
• Staff will ensure the children wash their hands prior to eating lunch/snack.
• Staff will monitor the lunches/snacks to ensure no food arrives at the centre that contains
nuts or other known allergens.
• When a child forgets their lunch/snack or it needs to be supplemented due to the presence
of known allergens the staff will call the parent or guardian to provide a lunch/snack. If
the parent cannot provide a lunch/snack. The staff will provide lunch/snack that meets the
Canada Food Guidelines. The food served will be recorded in the log book.
• Staff will monitor that children do not share lunches/snacks.
• Staff will supervise closely any child that has a life threatening allergy by sitting next to them
or across from them during lunch time.
• Staff will ensure the children have water or milk to drink at lunch/snack time.
• Staff will monitor each child’s lunch/snack and should a child’s lunch consistently not adhere
to Canada’s Food Guide then the Centre Supervisor will work with the parent to provide
sample menu ideas.
• Sample lunch/snack ideas/websites will be available at the centre to support families.

21
Canada’s Food Guide
Range of servings size for children six years
Food Group
and older
Grain Products Either: 1 slice
125 ml to 175ml
½ cups to ¾ cup
Vegetables and Fruit Either: 1 whole vegetable or fruit
175ml ¾ cup to 1 cup
Milk Products Either: 175ml to 250ml
¾ cup to 1 cup
Meat and Alternatives Either: 60g to 90g
2 to 3 oz.

Life-Threatening Allergies (Anaphylaxis)

The YMCA strives to protect the children in our care who have life-threatening allergies by
reducing as much as possible exposure to their known allergens. A list of allergens to be
avoided in the program is included in your registration package and a notice is posted for all
families near the entrance to the program. Families are advised to check frequently as the
notice is updated monthly.

Any parent/guardian of a child with a life-threatening injury is responsible for providing the
YMCA with detailed information about their child’s known allergens, signs and symptoms of an
allergic response and the steps to take in an emergency prior to their child starting care. It is
also very important that parent’s/guardian’s inform YMCA staff anytime there is a change to a
child’s allergies.

Illness
The Ministry of Health has set out a list of isolation requirements for a variety of communicable
illnesses. If your child is feeling sick or has any new or worsening symptoms of illness, including
those not listed below, they should stay home until their symptoms are improving for at least 24
hours (or 48 hours for nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) and they do not have a fever, and seek
assessment from their health care provider if needed. The presence of symptoms, particularly
respiratory symptoms, increases the risk of transmitting to others.
If your child has ONE of the following symptoms, they must stay home and follow the isolation
guidance in the Ontario school and child care screening tool:
• Fever and/or chills (temperature of 37.8°C/100.0°F or greater)
• Cough or barking cough (croup)

22
 • Shortness of breath
• Decrease or loss of taste or smell

If your child has TWO OR MORE of the following symptoms, they must stay home and follow
the isolation guidance in the Ontario school and child care screening tool
• Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
• Runny or stuffy nose/congested nose
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Muscle aches or joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

If your child has ONE of the following symptoms they must stay home and follow the guidance
in the Ontario school and child care screening tool*:
• Sore throat or difficulty swallowing
• Runny or stuffy nose/congested nose
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Muscle aches or joint pain
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

*a) In the last 5 days and your child is fully vaccinated OR 11 years old or younger then your
child must stay home until the symptom has been improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours
for nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea) and no fever.
b) In the last 10 days and your child is 12 years of age or older AND not fully vaccinated OR if
they are immune compromised then your child must stay home until the symptom has been
improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours for nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea) and no fever.

If your child has ANY of these symptoms they must stay home until symptoms have been
improving for at least 24 hours:
• Abdominal Pain
• Pink eye
• Decreased or no appetite( young children only)
If your child (ren) have been told that they should currently be quarantining, isolating, staying at
home, not attending school or child care.
• Stay home and follow the guidance in the Ontario School and Child Care screening tool

23
If your child (ren) have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days, this includes a positive
COVID-19 test result on a laboratory-based PCR test, rapid molecular test, rapid antigen test or
other home-based self-testing kit.
• Follow the guidance in the Ontario school and Child Care screening tool:
School and Child Care Screening Tool
*If the individual being screened is immunocompromised the correct screening tool can be
found at the School and Child Care Screening Tool

Other Symptoms of Illness

Anyone who is feeling sick or has any new or worsening symptoms of illness, including those
not listed in this screening tool, should stay home until their symptoms are improving for at
least 24 hours (or 48 hours for nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) and seek assessment from
their health care provider if needed.

If your child (ren) have been told that they should currently be quarantining, isolating, staying at
home, not attending school or child care.
• Stay home and follow the guidance in theOntario school and Child Care screening tool:
School and Child Care Screening Tool

If your child (ren) have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 10 days, this includes a positive
COVID-19 test result on a laboratory-based PCR test, rapid molecular test, rapid antigen test or
other home-based self-testing kit.
• Follow the guidance in the Ontario school and Child Care screening tool: School and Child
Care Screening Tool
*If the individual being screened is immunocompromised the correct screening tool can be
found at School and Child Care Screening Tool

24
Reporting Absence
It is very important that you contact the program to report that your child will be absent and the
reason for their absence. This information is required for determining who else must isolate, get
tested, or whether the program must close.

If Child Becomes Ill at Program

If a child becomes ill while at the program, a staff member will separate the child from the
others and the parent/guardian will be contacted to immediately pick-up the child from the
program. If the YMCA is unable to reach the parent(s)/guardian to arrange pick-up, then all
other contacts including emergency contacts and authorized pick-ups will be contacted. The
ill child will be supervised by a staff member while waiting to be picked up. If the child is over 2
years of age and can tolerate a mask, they will be asked to wear a mask.

Masks
Requirements to wear masks/eye protection indoors or outdoors at the child care centre have
been lifted by the government of Ontario. Please inform your child’s educator if you want your
child to continue wearing a mask. Masking requirements are in effect for children over the age
of two years old who are returning from international travel or isolating due to COVID-19.

Travelled outside of Canada in the last 14 days

You must follow the federal guidelines (https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid) after returning to
Canada, even if you were not required to quarantine.

Health and safety tips

The removal of provincial requirements does not mean that the risk for COVID-19 has
disappeared. We still need to do our part to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19. This
includes practicing good hand hygiene and wearing a mask where recommended or required.

25
Medication
Whenever possible, parents/guardians should administer drugs and medication to their children
at home, if this can be done without affecting the treatment schedule. When a child is ill, it is in
their best interest to remain at home where they are comfortable and able to rest and get better.
The YMCA is required to administer only drugs and medications either prescribed by a doctor,
nurse practitioner or other licensed health provider, with a prescription label on the original
container on the medication or accompanied by a doctor’s note that outlines the following:
• Date note was written.
• Time to be administered or detailed reason for administering including signs and symptoms
(e.g. fever above 38°C, wheezing or coughing, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, etc.).
• Expiry date of the note (i.e. is it for a specific time period? or on going until further notice?)
• Child’s legal first and last name.
• Name of drug or medication.
• Dosage to be administered.

Anytime you bring prescription drugs or medications to be administered to your child at the
child care centre the YMCA staff will provide you with a Medication Administration Authorization
form to complete that details the dosage, times of administration and permission for the YMCA
to give your child the drug or medication.

Advil, Tylenol, Motrin

(Pain Relievers, Fever Reducers, and Anti-inflammatory Medications)
It is not the YMCA’s practice to administer medications such as Advil, Tylenol, or Motrin to
control cold or flu symptoms. It is in the best interest of the child experiencing these symptoms
to remain home, to rest, and get better. If the child has a chronic illness (e.g. headache,
migraine, seizures) or is teething the YMCA may administer medications like Advil or Tylenol with
a doctor’s note. The doctor’s note must be updated annually or as the child’s age, weight, or
medical condition changes.

26
Incident/Accident Reporting
Children are active and curious. It is not uncommon for young children to experience cuts,
scrapes, and bruises while running, jumping, and playing. All YMCA staff hold valid certification
in Standard First Aid and Infant and Child CPR and have been trained in emergency procedures.

Anytime your child has an accident, YMCA staff will record the details on the YMCA Incident
Notification for Parent form and provide you with a copy.

In the event a more serious incident involving your child occurs, YMCA staff have been trained
to respond based on the severity of the injury. YMCA staff will either call emergency support
services (911), parent/guardian or your designated emergency contacts to take your child for
medical evaluation.

Serious Occurrence incidents are reportable by the YMCA to the Ministry of Education Child
Care Quality, Assurance and Licensing Unit within 24 hours of the supervisor becoming aware
of the incident. Details regarding the serious occurrence will be posted near the entrance of the
program for 10 days. A serious occurrence incident is defined as; Public Health orders a closure,
YMCA closes the program, life-threatening injury or illness of a child, an allegation of abuse by
a staff, student, or placement volunteer, a missing or unsupervised child, a disaster on premises,
or the death of a child.

Emergency Response
The YMCA is committed to being prepared and to keep all staff, volunteers and families safe and
the Association functioning in the event of an emergency or natural disaster. We understand
that YMCA families, staff, volunteers and students on placements rely on our ability to deliver
uninterrupted programs and services in safe environments. The YMCA trains all staff, volunteers,
and students on placement before interacting with children and annually on emergency
procedures including how to respond to personal injuries and medical emergencies, building
emergencies (power failure, flood), fire drills and evacuation, inclement weather, threats from
criminal activity (lockdown) and natural disasters.

In the event your child is involved in an emergency you will be contacted directly by the YMCA.
If the YMCA is unable to reach you directly they will call the emergency contacts you have
identified in your child’s registration package. The YMCA will also endeavor to post information
on our website ymca.org and or Twitter and Facebook accounts. Depending on the nature of
the emergency, the YMCA staff and children may have to re-locate to an evacuation site until
you can pick up your child. The YMCA evacuation site address is posted in the entrance way of
the program.

27
Smoke Free
YMCA Child Care programs are required to be smoke free environments under the Smoke
Free Ontario Act 2005. Smoking or handling a cigarette or tobacco on the premises where a
YMCA child care program is located, including all in-door and outdoor areas is prohibited. This
includes playgrounds, school property and surrounding areas. Failure to comply could result in a
penalty of up to $5,000.00.

Outdoor Play
All children in full day child care centres are required to play outdoors for a minimum of two
hours each day, weather permitting. During inclement weather, alternate active play must be
provided indoors. Weather can change quickly. A rainy cool morning can rapidly become a
humid, sunny afternoon. We ask that you always prepare your child for any type of weather so
that your child can participate comfortably outdoors.

Field Trips and Community Walks

Field trips and community walks provide valuable experiences for children and allow staff the
opportunity to extend program activities outside of the classroom. When these opportunities
arise, parents/guardians will be required to complete a permission form giving consent for their
child to participate in the activity. Community walks may be part of the regular program and as
such do not require a permission form.

Extreme Weather
During extreme weather conditions, advisories or alerts, (heat, smog or wind chill) the YMCA
follows the guidelines of the local health department. Our first priority is to keep children safe
from serious adverse health effects such as frostbite and sunburn. YMCA Educators will adjust
the amount of time spent outdoors or provide an alternative indoor plan.

28
Program Information

Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) update

The YMCA of Greater Toronto has signed the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care
(CWELCC) agreement and is pleased to offer fee reductions as part of the agreement to
families in Toronto, York, Peel, Halton, Dufferin, and Durham regions.

YMCA Base fees are reduced upon registration by 25% September to December 2022 and
52.75% as of January 2023 to a minimum of $12.00.

To check if you are eligible and/or to learn more about the CWELCC program, check out our
FAQ page.

Part Time Programs

Part time programs are available at limited locations that are not full to capacity. Families can
choose from 2 day (Tuesday & Thursday) or 3 day (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) options. You
will be asked to sign a part time program agreement form. In the event that a program location
reaches its maximum capacity, families will be offered the opportunity to change from part-time
to full-time or be given two weeks’ withdrawal notice.

Arrival and Departure

The safety and well-being of all children participating in YMCA child care programs is of utmost
importance to us. Parents/guardians or their designate are required to personally escort their
child into the program and to pick up their child at the end of the day. Please ensure the YMCA
staff is aware you have arrived or that you are departing with your child. Arrival and Departure
times are recorded by a YMCA Educator prior to parents/guardians leaving the centre.

Authorized Drop off/Pick up and Emergency Contacts

At the time of enrollment, you will be asked to provide the names and contact information
including telephone numbers and addresses of any adults 16 years of age or older that you
authorize to drop off/pick up your child or come to the centre in the event that you cannot
be contacted when your child is ill or has been involved in an emergency. The YMCA does not
permit children 15 years of age or younger to escort younger children home. If you require an
alternate person to pick up your child who is not on the list, please provide this information in
writing (email) to the YMCA staff. Any new visitors to the YMCA who come to pick up a child will
be asked to provide photo identification.

29
Late Pick up
YMCA Early Childhood Educators are counting on you to be on time to pick up your child at the
end of the day so that they can meet their personal and family obligations. We do understand
that that weather and traffic accidents happen, however we appreciate you calling the program
to let us know you will be late or making arrangements for an alternate adult to pick up your
child. Child care arrangements may be withdrawn by the YMCA for parents/guardians who
frequently pick up their child late.

Space Limitations
The YMCA has the right to manage enrolment which may result in the YMCA not being able to
accommodate your child care needs for the next school year. Priority will be given to children
currently registered and attending their home school where the child care program is located
with consideration also being given to younger children. In situations where capacity is limited
and expansion of space is unavailable, the YMCA will provide families with written notice.

Program Closures
YMCA Child Care Programs are closed on all statutory holidays during the year. Please note
when a statutory holiday falls on a weekend the YMCA will recognize this closure date on the
following business day. Fee payment is required for all statutory holidays

New Year’s Day Thanksgiving Day

Family Day Christmas Day
Good Friday Boxing Day
Victoria Day Easter Monday - All YMCA child care
Canada Day will be closed for Staff Professional
Civic Holiday Development
Labour Day

30
Unscheduled Program Closures
On rare occasion, YMCA Child Care programs must close due to unscheduled circumstances
such as severe weather, flooding, job action, and other incidents beyond our control. Families
will be notified through email, phone, or our Weemarkable app when their program has been
canceled. News of closures will also be shared through the YMCA’s website and Twitter. Please
note that child care fee credits and refunds will not be processed for unscheduled program
closures.
In severe weather conditions, full-day Child Care and Before & After School programs will
follow the same closure procedure as local school boards. When schools in a region close due
to weather, our child care programs – both those inside and those outside schools – will also
close. School bus cancellations due to severe weather will not affect YMCA full-day Child Care
programs but will affect some YMCA Before & After School programs.

Program Cancellations
The YMCA will endeavor to keep programs operating which meet the needs of the community.
The YMCA reserves the right to limit program components and/or locations based on
enrolment.

31
 Registration Information

Child Care Fee

The following are the base fees for all YMCA centres offering child care programs. At this time,
the YMCA does not charge a non-base fees. In case of any changes to non-base fees, we will
provide a a 30 days notice informing you of any changes.
The YMCA of Greater Toronto has signed the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care
(CWELCC) agreement and is pleased to offer fee reductions as part of the agreement to families
in Toronto, York, Peel, Halton, Dufferin, and Durham regions.
YMCA Base fees are reduced upon registration by 25% September to December 2022 and
52.75% as of January 2023 to a minimum of $12.00.

Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery

Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

City of Scarborough David Lewis $45.26 $21.39

Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Maryvale $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Fleming YMCA $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Lucy Maud $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Montgomery Y
City of Scarborough Rouge Valley $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Port Royal $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Scarborough Town $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Centre Ct YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of Scarborough Sir Samuel $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Steele YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of Scarborough St Rose of $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Lima YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of North York Parkway Forest $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of North York YMCA Child $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Care Centre
City of Scarborough St. Columba $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Bridlewood $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre

32
 Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery
Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

City of Scarborough Morrish YMCA $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39

Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Our Lady of $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Grace YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of Scarborough Epiphany of $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Our Lord YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of Scarborough CD $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Farquharson YMCA Child
Care Centre
City of Toronto George Webster $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Chester YMCA $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto St. Joseph YMCA $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Holy Spirit $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough St Boniface $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Scarborough Lynngate $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Toronto William Burgess $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Toronto R.H. McGregor $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Lamp YMCA Child $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Care Centre
City of North Etobicoke YMCA $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto High Park YMCA $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of West End YMCA $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto
City of Toronto Water Club YMCA $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Alexander Muir $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Gladstone YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of Toronto Pinnacle YMCA $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Shirley Street YMCA $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of North York University YMCA $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre

33
 Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery
Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

City of Toronto YMCA Family $89.75 $42.41 $65.34 $30.87 $48.57 $22.95
Toronto Development Child Care
Centre
City of North York St. Augustine $89.75 $42.41 $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto YMCA Child Care Centre
City of North York Elkhorn YMCA $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of North York St. Gabriel YMCA $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of North York St. Francis de $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Sales YMCA Child Care
Centre
City of North York St. Jerome YMCA $59.61 $28.17 $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Millwood YMCA $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
City of Toronto Norseman YMCA $45.26 $21.39
Toronto Child Care Centre
York Markham Legacy YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Stouffville Oscar Peterson $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Newmarket Alexander Muir $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Vaughan Dr. Roberta Bondar $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Markham Rouge Park YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Schomberg Cedar Glen $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Vaughan City Hall YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Center
York Richmond Hill Silver Pines $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Markham Woodhaven YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Markham Reesor Park YMCA $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Unionville Coledale YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Thornhill Brownridge YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Richmond Hill Bernard $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre

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 Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery
Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

York Kleinburg YMCA Child Care $45.00 $21.26

Centre
York Unionville Central Park $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Richmond Hill Kettle Lakes $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
York Newmarket Mazo De La $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Roche YMCA Child Care
Centre
York Aurora Hartman YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Aurora St. Jerome YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
York Aurora Aurora Nursery $22.20 $12.00
School YMCA Centre
York Vaughan David Braley YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49 $23.15
Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering St. Elizabeth Seton $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering Father Fenelon $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering Vaughan Willard $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Brooklin St. Leo YMCA Child $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Care Centre
Durham Oshawa YMCA Child Care $73.00 $34.49 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Centre
Durham Oshawa St. Kateri $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Tekakwitha YMCA Child
Care Centre
Durham Uxbridge Joseph Gould $42.00 $19.85 $37.50 $17.72
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering Bayview Heights $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre

Durham Beaverton YMCA Child Care $42.00 $19.85 $37.50 $17.72

Centre
Durham Newcastle YMCA Child Care $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Centre

Durham Oshawa Waverly YMCA $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Child Care Centre

Durham Bowmanville Dr. Ross Tilley $40.00 $18.90

YMCA Child Care Centre

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 Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery
Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

Durham Port Perry Good Shepherd $73.00 $34.49 $42.00 $19.85 $37.50 $17.72
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering St. Wilfrid YMCA $40.00 $18.90
Child Care Centre
Durham Pickering Glengrove YMCA $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Child Care Centre
Durham Oshawa Kedron YMCA Child $40.00 $18.90
Care Centre
Durham Bowmanville John M James $73.00 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Whitby St. Matthew YMCA $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
Child Care Centre
Durham Ajax Dr. Roberta Bondar $73.50 $34.49 $48.50 $22.92 $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Durham Ajax Nottingham YMCA Child $40.00 $18.90
Care Centre
Durham Courtice Dr. Emily Stowe $40.00 $18.90
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Brampton Kennedy Road $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Bolton YMCA Child Care $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $48.00 $22.68
Centre
Peel Brampton Russell Barber $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Brampton Central Park Drive $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
YMCA Child Care Center
Peel Brampton Howden YMCA $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Morningstar $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Drive YMCA Child Care
Center
Peel Brampton Union St. YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Child Care Centre
Peel Brampton Our Lady of Peace $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Brampton Dolson YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre

Peel Caledon Central YMCA Child $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26

Care Centre
Peel Caledon Palgrave YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre

Peel Mississauga Ridgeway YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Child Care Center

36
 Infant Toddler Preschool Nursery
Toddler Nursery
Infant Fee Fee Preschool Fee Fee
Region Location Name Base Base
Base Fee January January Base Fee January January
Fee Fee
2023 2023 2023 2023

Peel Mississauga Falconer YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Middlebury YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Garthwood YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Credit Valley $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Champlain Trail $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga St. Hilary YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Our Lady of Good $45.00 $21.26
Voyage YMCA Child Care
Centre
Peel Mississauga Derry Woods $53.5 $25.28 $48.00 $22.68
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Burnhamthorpe $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Rd. YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Meadowvale $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre
Peel Mississauga Williamsport $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
YMCA Child Care Center
Peel Mississauga Valley YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
Child Care Center
Peel Mississauga Hanson Road $75.50 $35.67 $60.75 $28.70 $49.00 $23.15
YMCA Child Care Center
Halton Georgetown St. Brigid YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Child Care Centre
Halton Milton E.C. Drury YMCA Child $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Care Centre
Halton Milton St. Peter YMCA Child $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Care Centre
Halton Milton Kennedy Circle YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26

Halton Miltom Kennedy Circle YMCA $75.50 $35.67 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
Centre

Dufferin Orangeville Credit Meadows $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26

YMCA Child Care Centre
Dufferin Shelburne Centennial Hylands $71.00 $33.55 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre

Dufferin Orangeville St. Peter YMCA $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26

Child Care Centre
Dufferin Orangeville Jean Hamlyn $71.00 $33.55 $53.50 $25.28 $45.00 $21.26
YMCA Child Care Centre

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Child Care Payments
Child care payments are processed on a monthly basis by pre-authorized payment/debit
authorization or by credit card. Families have the option to choose from one of the three
monthly draw dates for their child care fees to be processed on 1st, 15th or 20th of each month).
If families require payment arrangements outside of our current terms and conditions please
email the Child and Family Development Administration Office at csac@ymcagta.org.

Waitlist
The admissions review process aligns with the charity’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and
Belonging strategic goals. The YMCA strives to accommodate all registration requests, however
there may be times when space is unavailable in our programs and you may be offered to place
your child on a waitlist. To address this, issue the YMCA has created a waiting list procedure.
Please note there is no fee to place your child on a waiting list. It is important for you to keep
your contact information up to date with us.
Children are placed numerically on the waiting list based on the date and time that the waiting
list application is received by the YMCA. Determining where your child(ren) is on a waiting list/or
admissions to the program is subject to a number of considerations including, but not limited to;

• when the children currently enrolled move to the next age group
• the ages of the children on the waiting list
• the length of time each child will be in an age group before having to transition to the next
age group

Exceptions that could affect the order in which admissions are offered are:

• A child protection/welfare agency requests placement for a child;

• Children requiring full time care (5 days per week);
• Siblings of children currently registered in a YMCA Child Care program
• Children transferring from other YMCA Child Care programs;|
• Children of YMCA of Greater Toronto employees;
• Children living within the school boundaries and attending their home school.

YMCA Child Care Program waitlists are managed by each YMCA location. To find out your
child(ren)’s status on the waiting list, simply contact the Supervisor of the program where you
originally completed the waiting list form. The Supervisor will disclose the child(ren)’s position
on the waiting list to the parent subject to the YMCA privacy statement https://ymcagta.org/
privacy.
Find a YMCA location by visiting https://ymcagta.org/find-a-y or call 1-866-317- 6251.

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Absence from Care
Refunds for child care fees will not be processed for the following; missed days, vacation, sick
days or inclement weather closures. Operating costs are based on the number of children
enrolled.

Registration Changes
If you require changes to your current program registration these requests can be made on line
using the Registration Change Request Form.
Registration changes include: family/child contact information, emergency contact information,
and changes to program type (part time to full time). Registration changes and updates can take
up to 10 days to be completed.

Payment Changes
Any changes to pre-authorized billing can be submitted on line using the Registration Change
Request Form. If a new pre-authorized payment form is required you can obtain this form from
your program supervisor. Payment changes can take up to 10 business days for the changes to
take effect.

Withdrawal Notification
If you choose to withdraw your child from their YMCA child care program, 10 days’ notice of
withdrawal is required. Withdrawal notices can be submitted online using the Registration
Change Request Form. Payments will be adjusted upon receipt of the withdrawal notification.
Withdrawal notifications received with less than 10 days’ notice will be charged for the 10-day
period.
With regards to if the YMCA does not sign into the CWELCC agreement, parents can provide up
to 30 days notice to withdrawal without penalty.

Government Child Care Fee Subsidy

YMCA licensed child care programs hold a purchase of service agreement with regional
municipal offices. Families can apply for child care fee subsidy by contacting your local
municipal office or visiting their website by clicking below:

City of Toronto Region of York Region of Durham County of Dufferin

Region of Peel Region of Halton County of Simcoe

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YMCA Financial Assistance
As a charity that serves all segments of our community, the YMCA of Greater Toronto provides
financial assistance in times of need. This is a short term support made possible due to the
generosity of our donors, members, volunteers, staff, corporate and community partners. For
more information on how to apply please speak to your YMCA program supervisor.

Withdrawal of YMCA Services

The YMCA strives to meet the individual needs of all children and families enrolled in our YMCA
child care programs. However, situations do arise from time to time where it may be necessary
for the YMCA of Greater Toronto to withdraw child care services for a child and/or their family.
The YMCA does not take these decisions lightly and takes reasonable care to ensure a thorough
assessment of the child’s needs, community supports available, and the YMCA programs ability
to support the child have been undertaken before withdrawing services.
Examples leading to withdrawal of services may include:

• Non-payment of program fees

• Frequent late pick up

• Parents/guardians or children who exhibit violent or harassing behaviour towards staff,

volunteers, students on placement, other children or families

• Community resources for children with special needs are unavailable or have been
exhausted

• Refusal by parent/guardian to meet with YMCA staff and/or consent to the use of support
services for children.

Privacy of Information
All YMCA staff, volunteers and placement students understand the importance of keeping
all personal information in the strictest of confidence. The YMCA will not share any personal
information with outside agencies including school boards, and resource consultants for
children with special needs without written parental consent. For a full version of the YMCA
Privacy Policy please click here.

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Our Vision
Vibrant communities where everyone can shine.

Our Mission
The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in
people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities.

Our Values
Inclusiveness
We create welcoming places and programs where everyone feels they
belong.

Integrity
We are truthful, trustworthy, and take responsibility for our choices,
actions, and commitments.

Kindness
We are caring and compassionate.

Optimism
We believe in the strengths and potential in people and communities.

Respect
We treat every person with dignity.

Well-being
We are dedicated to people’s physical, social, and mental health.