Our son is so happy every morning to be going to “School”. When I pick him up from the Y, I can see his smiling face coming down the hall and he has to tell me about his day… The Old Town- Orono Y is the best of the best when it comes to keeping the kids busy with different programs or activities though out each and every day.

– Derek, Preschool Classroom Parent

OUR MODEL

Our Toddler and Preschool classrooms utilize The Creative Curriculum® to provide engaging and developmentally-appropriate, play-based learning opportunities in the following areas:

• Gross motor skills
• Fine motor skills
• Social-emotional development
• Language and communication
• Cognitive development
• Creative expression
• Early literacy skills

With access to all of our Y’s facilities and resources, we are also proud to offer:

• Music, movement, and dance
• YMCA Swim Lessons (Preschool Classroom ONLY)
• Nutritious snacks, prepared daily by Chef Josh
• Sensory experiences and play
• Physical activity, including tumbling and gymnastics-based play
• Structured and open-ended outdoor play

OUR GOALS

• Provide a safe and fun environment that supports growth and learning
• Foster positive, trusting relationships with both staff and peers
• Offer developmentally- appropriate, open-ended activities
• Provide hands-on, play-based learning, investigation, and exploration
• Build a solid foundation of skills to support each child as they grow
• Create opportunities to develop new interests and explore current passions
• Grow confidence, problem-solving skills, and creativity

OUR TRAINING

At the Old Town – Orono YMCA, child safety is our #1 priority. We require all Y staff to maintain certifications in CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers, First Aid, and other essential safety trainings. As a State of Maine licensed Child Care Provider, we are part of the Maine Roads to Quality Professional Development Network and are committed to providing a wide variety of high quality, evidence based training and development opportunities to all of our teachers throughout the year.

OUR PROGRAM HOURS

Our Early Learning Center operates 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. In the case of inclement weather, we may have to adjust our hours or remain closed. When these changes happen, we will communicate to families via text and/or email.

OUR ENROLLMENT PROCESS

All interested families must schedule an Early Learning Center tour and complete an Early Learning Registration Packet. Reach out to our Assistant Childcare Director, Rachel Parent, via email at Rachel.Parent@otoymca.org to schedule a tour today!

At the Y, we are committed to reducing financial barriers for families so that everyone has access to opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Thanks to the generous support of our Annual Campaign donors and the Old Town – Orono YMCA Foundation, we are proud to provide income-based Financial Assistance for Membership, Child Care, and Program fees to ensure everyone in our community can access our Y.

In addition to our Financial Assistance program, we are also proud to offer discounts for many of our hometown heroes and their families, including First Responders, Healthcare Workers, Teachers, Active Duty Service Members, and Veterans.

OUR PROGRAM RATES

effective September 1, 2025