Before & Afterschool

The YMCA of Greater Boston is the largest provider of state licensed childcare in Massachusetts with school age before and afterschool programs in local public schools and at community sites. Programs are held during afterschool hours, school vacations, on certain holidays and teacher professional development days. Many sites also offer before-school programs.

Our staff of caring, trained educators are role models who lead activities that promote cooperation and character development. Parents can be productive at work knowing their children are in a safe and stimulating afterschool environment.

We continue to stay committed to the safety of your children and family by updating and adapting our safety policies per recommendations from the CDC, EEC, and the State of Massachusetts guidelines. Safety is our top priority so thank you for your continued cooperation and patience.

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

• Full Time Site Director committed to program excellence and family engagement
• In-School to Afterschool Curriculum Alignment​
• Program Offerings located in local Schools and YMCA Centers​
• Before and Afterschool Program Options Ages 5-13*, Grades K-8
• Licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care
• Full Day Programming provided on School Vacation Weeks and Snow Days
• Some programs offer afterschool programs for 3- and 4-year-old students

CORE PROGRAM COMPONENTS

• Welcome and Opening Circle​
• Homework Support​
• Nutritious Snack or Meal​
• Physical Health and Wellness​
• Hands-On Learning and Enrichment​
• Focus on Social Emotional Development​
• Family Engagement​
• Relationship Building with Peers and Adults

SCHEDULE AND OPTIONS

• Monday through Friday:
  Before School* (at limited locations)
  Afterschool: School Dismissal – 6:00pm
• 5 Day Options (partial week at some locations)
• Full Day Programming Provided on Snow Days, Teacher In-Service Days & School Vacation Weeks
• Year Round Options Available:
  • September – June: Afterschool Programs
  • June – August: Summer Day Camp and Summer Learning Academies

Our Educators and Staff

Our professional education staff is dedicated to promoting positive relationships between children, their families, and the community. We value open communication, active collaboration, and shared responsibility, creating a supportive network that fosters optimal child development. Together, we strive to strengthen families, build community connections, and empower children to reach their fullest potential.

We offer and participate in continuous professional development and stay at the forefront of research and best practices in child development to lay the foundation for life.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

The safety and protection of the children we serve are paramount to us. We know parents, guardians and the community-at-large place their trust in the Y to do everything that we can to ensure that the children in our care are safe. The YMCA of Greater Boston reviews all prospective members and guests against the Massachusetts Registry of Sex Offenders and prohibits membership or access to our Y’s for individuals who are classified as offenders.

Our Before & After School Site Locations
Find a site near you by searching with a zip code, address or site name! Please make sure to confirm availability and eligibility for your child with the site prior to attending. If you have questions about our Before and Afterschool programs fill out the interest form at the bottom of the page and a team member will get in touch with you.

 
Before & Afterschool Interest Form