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The YMCA of Cumberland offers a variety of childcare programs for all ages, these programs take place at our three childcare locations throughout Cumberland County.
YMCA Early Learning Oxford
Sally Ann Trenholm
902-447-4513 ext 247
YMCA Early Learning Pugwash
April Turrell
902-243-4079
YMCA Early Learning Oxford
Sally Ann Trenholm
902-447-4513 ext 247
Director of Child Care
Chrissy Castonquay
902-667-4724
Director of Offsite Afterschool Programs
Virginia McManaman
902-667-4724
YMCA Early Learning Centre
Amherst
Child Care
This program has been designed to encourage socialization with age appropriate activities. Children develop skills at their own pace in areas of creative activities, fine motor, music, movement, science, language development, etc. Outdoor play is a daily event and use of the gym and swimming pool occurs on a weekly basis. Our aim is to provide a program where the child feels safe, happy, stimulated and well cared for in an environment designed to help them learn through play.
Developed in 2001 by a team of child care experts at the YMCA of Greater Toronto, our YMCA Playing to Learn curriculum prepares children ages 0-6 for school and life-long achievement by nurturing their curiosity and development in the most natural way possible…through play!
An integral part of all licensed YMCA early learning child care across Canada since 2007, YMCA Playing to Learn aligns with all provincial early learning frameworks adopted to date and is based on research and evidence that shows play is the most effective way that children learn and gain new skills.
Locations:
Amherst: YMCA Early Learning Centre (92 Church St)
Ages: 6months - 5years
Days & Times: Monday - Friday / 6:30am - 6:30pm
After School Program
YMCA of Cumberland Childcare staff provide a safe and secure learning environment. Age-appropriate activities are planned daily such as gym time, swimming, outings within the community, cooking, art time, group games, outdoor play and more. A healthy snack is provided daily.
Ages: Students from Pre-primary to Grade 6
Time: Afterschool - 5:00pm (5:30 in select locations)
Locations: West Highlands Elementary, Spring Street Academy, Parrsboro Regional Elementary, Cumberland North Academy and Oxford Regional Education Centre.
Specialty Summer Camp
Throughout July & August, the YMCA of Cumberland offers summer camps. These programs offer a wide variety of activities including day trips, swimming, arts & crafts, cooking and recreational activities including sports and small and large group games. Summer programs are run out of the YMCA Early Learning Center in Amherst.
Ages: Youth Aged 5-12 years old
Days: Monday - Friday
Time: 8:30 - 5:30pm
Locations: Amherst Curling Club
Cost: $130 per week
Specialty Summer Camp Themes for 2025
Registration Opens Online: TBA
July 6-10: Nature Camp
Get ready to explore, discover and get a little messy! At Nature Camp, Kids will enjoy outdoor adventures, nature games, and creative crafts while learning to love the world around them.
July 13-17: Mad Science
Calling all curious kids! Science Camp is packed with hands-on experiments, building challenges and “wow” moments that turn learning into nonstop fun!
July 20-24: Art Camp
Art Camp is a week to imagine, create, and express! Campers will try different art stylers, projects and materials, ending the week with a colourful Art Show where families can celebrate their young artists!
July 27-31: Splish Splash
Splash, play, and stay cool this summer! From water games to themed activities, this week is full of refreshing fun and giggles, all in a safe and supervised setting.
August 4- 7: Moovin N’ Groovin (4 days)
Time to move and groove! Dance camp lets kids jump, spin, and dance their hearts out while learning fun routines and building confidence through movement and ending the week showing those skills in a dance recital.
August 10- 14: Games Galore
Run, play and cheer at games and sports camp! Campers will try a variety of games and sports that focus on teamwork, fair play and having a blast together!
August 17-21: Circus Camp
Step right up for Circus Campe fun! Kids will enjoy silly games, create activities and circus-style challenges, all leading up to a big Carnival celebration for families at the end of the week.
August 24-28: Summer Olympics
Let the games begin! At Olympics Camp campers join teams, complete in playful challenges and celebrate effort and teamwork in a fun-filled Olympic-style finale.
Please Note the Following:
- Fitness breaks are a part of all our specialty camps to ensure that participants are staying active!
- Lunch and snacks are not included with specialty camps.
For more information or questions about Summer Camps,
please email childcare@cumberland.ymca.ca or call 902-667-4724.
Babysitting Course
This YMCA program prepares youth with the necessary skills to look after infants, toddlers and children. This includes diaper changes, bottle feeding, basic food preparation, safety in the home, responsibilities as a care giver, basic first aid, games and activities as well as emergency situation protocol.
Ages: 11-15
Courses: TBD
Time: 10:00 - 3:00pm
**Registration Required**