About
YMCA Early Learning Programs include activities such as dramatic play, language, science, math, social studies, music, art, large motor development, and small motor development. Each classroom has a daily schedule posted, along with curriculum plans that teachers design based on their observations of the children’s interests. The programs use the Creative Curriculum, which balances teacher-planned and child-initiated learning and emphasizes responsiveness to children’s strengths, interests, needs, and learning styles.
• Ages: 6 weeks–5 years old
• Schedule: Each classroom posts a daily schedule and teacher-designed curriculum plans
Childcare staff are trained professionals chosen for their warmth, creativity, experience with children, and commitment to excellence, and they are described as nurturing, understanding child development, and respecting each child as an individual. The YMCA is committed to ongoing training and professional development of Early Learning staff. Adult-to-child ratios are 1:7 for 2-year-olds, 1:10 for 3-year-olds, and 1:12 for 4–5-year-olds. A large part of a child’s day is spent in free choice time, and the YMCA participates in the CACFP food program. The health and safety of all children and their families is stated as a top priority, with adherence to local and state health department recommendations regarding safety procedures.
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis states a core early childhood belief that children learn best through play, which it describes as the legitimate and genuine work of young children, and programs are structured so that children are active participants in their own development and learning. Students in these programs are described as becoming instilled with the Y’s mission of developing the spirit, mind, and body of each individual and encouraging an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect for everyone. The mission of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is “Putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis traces its beginnings in Central Indiana back to 1854 and states that it has worked for more than 170 years to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community. Its leadership team includes President & Chief Executive Officer Gregg Hiland and several Senior Vice Presidents: Michael Farris, Jr. (Chief Operations Officer), Justin Blackstone (Chief Development Officer), Randy Bordeau (Chief Financial Officer), Kirsten Eamon-Shine (Chief Brand Experience Officer), Colleen Horan (Chief Strategy Officer), Jessica Moore (Chief Equity Advancement Officer), and Mallory Trusty (Chief People Officer). The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis reports providing over $8 million in scholarships, program subsidies, and underwritten programs in low-income communities and, as part of the worldwide YMCA, helping bring awareness, advocate for change, and positively influence public policy.
Parent and member testimonials about YMCA branches in Greater Indianapolis describe the Y as feeling like home, with front desk staff who always have a smile, and refer to one branch as a “hidden gem” and “the nicest urban YMCA” the member has seen. Other testimonials describe a beautiful and supportive community and praise classes and instructors as motivating and challenging.
Last updated May 13, 2026.
• Ages: 6 weeks–5 years old
• Schedule: Each classroom posts a daily schedule and teacher-designed curriculum plans
Childcare staff are trained professionals chosen for their warmth, creativity, experience with children, and commitment to excellence, and they are described as nurturing, understanding child development, and respecting each child as an individual. The YMCA is committed to ongoing training and professional development of Early Learning staff. Adult-to-child ratios are 1:7 for 2-year-olds, 1:10 for 3-year-olds, and 1:12 for 4–5-year-olds. A large part of a child’s day is spent in free choice time, and the YMCA participates in the CACFP food program. The health and safety of all children and their families is stated as a top priority, with adherence to local and state health department recommendations regarding safety procedures.
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis states a core early childhood belief that children learn best through play, which it describes as the legitimate and genuine work of young children, and programs are structured so that children are active participants in their own development and learning. Students in these programs are described as becoming instilled with the Y’s mission of developing the spirit, mind, and body of each individual and encouraging an atmosphere of cooperation and mutual respect for everyone. The mission of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is “Putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis traces its beginnings in Central Indiana back to 1854 and states that it has worked for more than 170 years to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community. Its leadership team includes President & Chief Executive Officer Gregg Hiland and several Senior Vice Presidents: Michael Farris, Jr. (Chief Operations Officer), Justin Blackstone (Chief Development Officer), Randy Bordeau (Chief Financial Officer), Kirsten Eamon-Shine (Chief Brand Experience Officer), Colleen Horan (Chief Strategy Officer), Jessica Moore (Chief Equity Advancement Officer), and Mallory Trusty (Chief People Officer). The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis reports providing over $8 million in scholarships, program subsidies, and underwritten programs in low-income communities and, as part of the worldwide YMCA, helping bring awareness, advocate for change, and positively influence public policy.
Parent and member testimonials about YMCA branches in Greater Indianapolis describe the Y as feeling like home, with front desk staff who always have a smile, and refer to one branch as a “hidden gem” and “the nicest urban YMCA” the member has seen. Other testimonials describe a beautiful and supportive community and praise classes and instructors as motivating and challenging.
Last updated May 13, 2026.
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