(Batesville, IN) – The YMCA Learning Center is now enrolling children ages 3–5 for its preschool and pre-kindergarten programs, welcoming all families in the community to register for the upcoming school year.
New this year, the Learning Center is expanding access by introducing a half-day preschool option, offered alongside its much-loved traditional all-day preschool program.
The Learning Center preschool programs focus on nurturing the whole child—supporting cognitive, social, emotional, language, physical, and creative development to build a strong foundation for kindergarten and beyond.
“At the Y, we believe every child deserves a place where they feel safe, supported, and excited to learn,” said McKenzie Callahan, YMCA Learning Center Childcare Director. “By adding a half-day option, we’re giving families more flexibility while continuing to provide the high-quality, play-based learning experience the YMCA Learning Center is known for.”
Individual Attention in a Nurturing Environment
Small classroom sizes allow YMCA educators to provide more individualized attention, focusing on each child’s unique needs and strengths. Children benefit from consistent, caring relationships that build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning.
For families enrolled in all-day preschool, children enjoy additional enrichment opportunities, including:
- The YMCA Learning Center is also open an additional 25 days throughout the year—including spring break, fall break, and school in-service days—providing dependable care when many
preschools are closed. - Swimming lessons as a class.
- Outdoor “fresh air fitness” on the YMCA playground.
- Increased physical activity using YMCA facilities in both the morning and afternoon.
- Transportation available to other YMCA youth programs such as swim lessons, gymnastics, and Ninja Kids.
- Learning Center hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 6:00 am–6:00 pm, offering working families flexibility for drop-off and pick-up.
New Half-Day Preschool Option (Ages 3–5)
Time: 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Monday, Wednesday & Friday (Ages 4–5)
$45/week for YMCA members or $60/week for potential members
Tuesday & Thursday (Age 3)
$40/week for YMCA members or $55/week for potential members
Both options emphasize kindergarten readiness and gross motor development in a supportive, play-
based environment.
Children must be age 3 by August 10, 2026, to enroll.
Accredited Excellence Families Can Trust
The YMCA Learning Center is:
- Nationally accredited through the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA).
- A Level 4 Paths to QUALITY™ rated center—the highest rating awarded by the State of Indiana.
- Licensed by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, Division of Family and Children.
- Licensed for food service through the Indiana State Board of Health and the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
These credentials reflect the YMCA’s commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement in early childhood education.
(Southeastern Indiana YMCA press release)
