Flourishing in YCare

Melanie and Gabe, parents to Wyatt (7), Jameson (4), and baby Sylvie (8 weeks), know firsthand the challenge of balancing full-time jobs with raising a young family. To help make their schedules work, they turned to the Y Care program, which has provided the flexibility they need to drop off Wyatt and Jameson before school and pick them up later in the afternoon.

For Wyatt, Y Care has been a place to grow and explore. Over the years, he’s become more independent, gained social skills, and discovered creative outlets like arts and crafts. One of his favorite activities? Perler fuse beads—he loved them so much the family even got some to use at home! Melanie shares, “We live in a subdivision, and he has been able to build friendships through Y Care that now extend outside of school and the program.”

This year, Jameson joined the program. Having never attended a structured daycare or program before, he is already benefitting from the structure and social opportunities. He has also expanded his palate and is even trying new foods—something Melanie and Gabe are especially excited to see. “We look forward to seeing his progress over the next year,” Melanie adds.

For Melanie and Gabe, Y Care is a solution that benefits their whole family. “The Y Care program provides balance so we can be fully present for work and our kiddos have an opportunity to socialize, work on homework or reading, and engage in various crafts/activities. It is a win-win for our family.”

They also appreciate how accessible the program is. “Because of the Y, our family can flourish. The programming fits within our budget and allows Gabe and I to maintain our careers while supporting our children so they can engage in additional opportunities outside of the traditional school hours.”