YMCA Child Care at Cross Country ES

The Y of Central Maryland has long been a trusted name in before and after school enrichment. There are countless reasons why we have been a leader for so many years. There are many obvious reasons to choose the Yconvenience, affordability, quality but there are also several not-so-obvious reasons. Here are just a few reasons why parents choose the Y
to be their preferred before and after school provider.

Y Journeys in Enrichment Before and After School is much more than a stop-over between home and school. It
provides an environment that fosters growth and development in children and peace of mind for parents.

Y Journeys engages children on all levels.

Educational – Y Journeys offers a program that develops skills in literacy, arts & humanities, science & technology, social competency, and conflict resolution.
Physical – Y Journeys incorporates a health & wellness component in its daily programming.
Social – At the Y, we are firm believers in The Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. The Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility are infused in everything we do.
Emotional – When children feel safe, they are more receptive to new ideas. Y Journeys conveniently operates in school sites offering familiarity and comfort.

Y Journeys in Enrichment Before and After School focuses on developing the whole child – spirit, mind and body.
Our focus is on fostering the critical connection between a vital mind, a healthy body, and a happy spirit.

Our Approach

Learning Launch Pad: Get an early start on homework. Y staff is there to help.
Body Central: Nutrition information and daily physical activity designed to promote healthy, active lifestyles.
Mind Space: Keep your mind just as active as your body with brain teasers, puzzles, and strategy games like chess.
Imagination Station: Get your creative juices flowing with activities like scrap-booking, drama, dance, crafts, and more.
Literacy Junction: Get lost in a good book or create your own adventure through activities like journaling, book clubs, and story-telling.
Science Center: Develop and enhance problem-solving skills through fun science and technology activities that pose questions and challenge children.
Spirit Zone: Learn the importance of giving back to the community through fun volunteer activities.

Homework help is a regular component of Y Journeys in Enrichment Before and After School. We encourage children to get a jump on homework right after school while the information is still fresh. We do not mandate that children do their homework, but instead, guide them to understanding the benefits of getting an early start on homework. Y staff is there to help.

By starting and/or completing their homework assignments early, children feel a sense of accomplishment as they demonstrate their commitment to learning. They also learn the value of time management as Y Journeys staff teaches them that by doing their homework now, they’ll have more time for other activities once they get home. For example, a child who doesn’t have to go home and get started on homework is a child who can help a younger sibling with their work, or help mom and dad prepare dinner, or simply take advantage of the last remaining hours of daylight to play outside.