Why Choose the Y Club Before & After School Program?
The Y Club Before & After School Program at the Gateway Region YMCA offers a unique blend of fun, safety, and growth for your child. Our program fosters academic support, social-emotional learning, and physical activity—all in a supervised environment guided by trained staff. With 78 Y Club sites across 20 school districts in Missouri and Illinois, we're committed to nurturing your child’s potential.
Convenient Hours
Before Care starts at 6:30 AM, and After Care runs until 6:00 PM.
Experienced Staff
All staff are state-licensed (MO), licensed exempt (IL), and trained in youth development and CPR/First Aid.
Inclusion for All
We welcome children of all abilities and offer additional support as needed.
Making Every Child Feel Welcome
The YMCA welcomes all children, regardless of ability or background. We offer inclusive support, financial assistance, and accept state childcare reimbursements to ensure every family can access quality before and after school care. With personalized support for children with Individual Education Plans (IEP) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP), we create a positive space for all kids to succeed.
Financial Assistance Learn how to apply for scholarships or social services reimbursement.
Inclusion Support Learn about our inclusion support services and staff training.
Engaging Activities Designed for Your Child’s Development
At Y Club, each day is designed to engage, inspire, and connect children. From STEM and arts to social-emotional learning, our activities support your child’s growth.
Y Chats
Daily youth-led discussions that build confidence and teamwork.
Youth Choice Stations
Kids choose from activity stations that foster independence and leadership.
Family Boards
Keep up with program updates and community events.
Partnering with Local Schools & Families for Holistic Support
The Gateway Region YMCA partners with local schools to offer additional benefits, like 25% off Y Club fees for school staff, support for PTO fundraisers, and access to YMCA facilities. This partnership strengthens our commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant communities. Together, we create a pathway for your child’s development.
- Discounted Y Club fees for school district employees.
- YMCA facility support for school fundraisers and events.
- Integrated activities like swim lessons and team-building sessions.
How to Register for Y Club
Registering for Y Club is simple! Just follow these steps to secure your child's spot:
Sign Up Online
Fill out our online registration form and pay the registration fee.
Don’t wait! Spots are limited. Click the button below to get started.
Submit Required Forms
Ensure your child’s spot by completing all necessary forms, including immunization records.
Don’t wait! Spots are limited. Click the button below to get started.
Financial Assistance
Apply for scholarships if you meet our criteria.
What Parents are Saying About Y Club
We’re proud that so many parents trust us with their children’s care and development. Hear what they have to say:
He also loves seeing some familiar Y faces at his after school care program, provided by the YMCA! He and his kindergarten friends frequently make plans to meet up at the Y in the evenings, so nearly every day at pick up he asks, "Is tonight a Y night?"
— 91% of parents notice positive social connections in our program.
All of the counselors over the years have been wonderful to my daughter and have made a big impact on her life from an early start. It really does take a village and the YMCA is a big help.
— 90% of parents praise our staff's professionalism.
Our kindergartener does the after school y-club as well and loves it! It bring us such peace of mind to know that she is in good hands both at the gym and after school.
— 92% of parents agree that their child feels comfortable in our program.
We're the Largest Provider of Youth Programs in Missouri
Kids Served in After School Programming
School Locations Across St. Louis & IL
Reading Minutes So Far This Year
Social-Emotional Learning Focus
In today's world, emotional well-being is just as important as academic success. That’s why YMCA Y Club integrates social-emotional learning (SEL) into our daily programming. Through fun group activities, we teach children vital skills like conflict resolution, teamwork, and emotional regulation. These life skills empower kids to succeed inside and outside the classroom.
Healthy Snacks & Nutrition
Your child’s health is our priority! Every day, children enjoy nutritious snacks that fuel their growing bodies and minds. We also promote healthy living by incorporating discussions around good nutrition and physical fitness.
Positive Outcomes for Kids, Families, and Communities
The YMCA’s Y Club is more than just after-school care. We’re here to help kids grow into confident, capable leaders.
- Achievement: Kids develop a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence through meaningful activities.
- Relationships: Our staff know each child’s unique personality, likes, and dislikes, making each child feel seen and valued.
- Belonging: Every child becomes part of the Y Club community, fostering inclusivity and respect.
We strive to build resilient, happy kids who love to learn and explore.
Y Club FAQs
YMCA Y Club includes academic support, STEM activities, fitness, creative arts, and social-emotional learning to ensure your child’s all-around development. Our programs are designed to be fun, educational, and enriching!
Our program offers flexible hours to accommodate working parents. Before care starts as early as 6:30 a.m. until the school bell rings, and after care runs from the school bell dismissal until 6:00 p.m. This extended coverage ensures your child is cared for while you manage work or other commitments.
At Y Club, we provide a range of engaging activities designed to promote academic, social, and emotional growth. Your child will enjoy homework help, STEM activities, sports and fitness, and opportunities for creative arts, all within a supportive environment that fosters confidence and teamwork.
Registration is easy! Simply visit our website, use the Find a Location tool to select your child’s school, and follow the prompts to enroll. If you need assistance, our team is here to help guide you through the process. Financial assistance options are available during registration.
Safety is our top priority. All staff members are trained in CPR and first aid, and we maintain strict check-in and check-out procedures to ensure your child is always accounted for. Our programs also follow all current safety guidelines to provide a safe, secure environment for your child to thrive.
Y Club is conveniently offered at 78 school locations throughout St. Louis and Southwest Illinois. With so many options, you’re likely to find a location near your home or workplace. Click here to find a Y Club near you.
Y Club offers more than just after-school care. With our dedicated, highly-trained staff, diverse enrichment programs, and a focus on social-emotional learning, we provide a unique environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Plus, our close partnership with schools ensures a seamless transition from the classroom to after-school activities.
Love Kids? Launch Your Rewarding Career at the Y!
The YMCA is more than a job; it's a place where you can make a real difference in the lives of children. We offer competitive pay, flexible schedules, and opportunities for professional development. Join our team and become a role model who inspires kids to learn, grow, and thrive.