The Early Learning Center is now part of our Birth to Five Child Development Department

The YMCA Early Learning Center at the Downtown Y is now part of our Birth to Five Child Development Department. In the department, in addition to the ELC, is our Head Start program. The Head Start program provides comprehensive education, social, health, and nutrition services to eligible three and four-year-old children and their families in Frederick County. This Department will ensure that every child, from birth to five, will have access to the programs and resources they need to thrive! 

What hasn’t changed?

  • Our commitment and focus on your child being prepared for school.

What’s New?

  • We welcome Gerry Earle as Interim Director of the Early Learning Center. He has a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in Human Development with a minor in Family Studies and a master’s degree in Higher Ed Administration. Gerry is the proud father of two kids and enjoys “Saving Education One Organization at a Time.” 
  • Every family will be assigned a Family Advocate (in addition to your child’s teacher). They will touch base around the beginning of the school year to help explain new family events available to all students. They will explain various programs available to help ensure you are accessing any available support to make high-quality childcare affordable for all.
  • Breakfast, lunch, and snacks will be provided by our health/nutrition team, students will eat with their peers and their teachers; social development and language development leads the way even during meal times!

What does this mean?

  • Everyone will have access to Federal, State, and local scholarships to ensure the very best child care is available to everyone! 
  • Your child(ren) no matter their age will receive the very best care, programs and resources to learn, grow and thrive in body, mind and spirit!

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Gerry Earle at 240-285-3799 or gearle@frederickymca.org OR visit our Early Learning Center Open House on Tuesday, August 16 from 4-6pm.