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At the Y, we believe that children learn best through play.

We nurture development by providing a safe place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships plus cultivate fine and gross motor skills. We plan our classes to develop each child’s self-esteem and strong image of self-worth. In every class, we encourage children to explore, ask questions and solve problems.

Our YMCA preschool programs integrate purposeful and intentionally planned activities that are designed to be fun and engaging while teaching children valuable skills.

Program Information

 

​Our YMCA preschool programs integrate purposeful and intentionally planned activities that are designed to be fun and engaging while teaching children valuable skills.

The morning block consists of reading fundamentals and other education-based curriculum. The afternoon block will include rest, STEM activities, swim lessons, arts & crafts, physical activity, and SO MUCH MORE!

Example Schedule:

  • Drop off
    7:45 AM - 8:20 AM
  • Education & Reading Curriculum
    8:20 AM - 11:00 AM
  • Lunch
    11:00 AM
  • Nap & Rest
    12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
  • Structured STEM Curriculum & Movement Activities 
    1:45 PM - 3:20 PM
  • Pick up & Free Choice Time
    3:20 PM - 5:00 PM

Questions?
We're here to help!

  • Contact our Early Learning & Childcare Director: 
    Raelee Thompson 
    Phone | 402-404-8439
    Email | rthompson@nwsymca.org
  • Scroll down this page to see our
    YMCA Preschool FAQ

Tuition & Registration

 

Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA is able to offer Siouxland parents and guardians to choose one of two locations for their child to attend preschool:

  • Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA
  • Dakota Valley Elementary School

2022-2023 School Year
Classes at both locations begin August 17th, 2022 - May 26th, 2023.

Tuition

  • $145.00 per week
  • $50.00 non-refundable registration deposit
  • Financial assistance is available 

Meals are not included.
If you would like your child to receive hot lunches a $10 flat rate will be applied to your weekly balance:
Please email rthompson@nwsymca.org to apply this to your account.

Registration

  • Registration open for members and current preschool participants February 1st, 2022.
  • Registration open to the community February 8th, 2022.
  • Start the registration process by clicking the button below to select your location and enroll your child today:

YMCA Preschool location selection & REGISTRATION HERE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Informational content and resources for parents and guardians.
Click each tab to view more information:

Preschool Handbook

 

  • Our Vision & Philosophy 
  • Description of Services
  • & All YMCA Preschool Program Procedures & Policies

YMCA Preschool Handbook

WHO CAN ENROLL?
  • Any child eligible for preschool between the ages of 3-5 years old.
  • Children must be toilet trained. 
  • Students are not required to reside within in the Dakota Valley District to enroll!
Location Addresses?

YMCA Preschool is located at these two locations:

Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA 
601 Riverview Drive
South Souix City, NE 68776
 

Dakota Valley Elementary School
1150 Northshore Drive
North Sioux City, SD 57049

Calendar & Weather Policy?

The Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA Preschool will follow the Dakota Valley School District’s calendar.

  • We will observe the same vacation and school days out as the district.
  • If the district closes school due to inclement weather, Y preschool will also be canceled.
  • The Y Preschool coordinator and director reserve the right to change this at any time and will notify you promptly.
Peanut Policy?

We are a Peanut Free Zone for the safety of all that use our classrooms both with the preschool, afterschool and additional child programs.
Please refrain from sending peanut and nut related items in your child’s bags.
 

  • While we are committed to being a peanut allergy-friendly facility, we cannot guarantee that peanuts will not find their way into our facility.
  • We ask that you continue to take every precaution to protect yourself and your children from unwanted exposure to peanut allergens.
Field Trips?

Y Preschool will take pre-scheduled field trips that align with our curriculum.

  • Parents/guardians will be notified of these trips in advance.
  • Our students swim 1-2 times a month at the Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA.
  • Teachers and staff will be in attendance of these field trips and parent volunteers are always welcome.
  • We ask that siblings do not attend with the parents.
Preschool Class Supply List?
  • Back pack
  • Pencil box/bag
  • 1 Box of crayons
  • 1 Box of markers
  • Scissors
  • 1 bottle of liquid glue
  • 1 Box of facial tissues
  • Nap sack or rest blanket (pillow optional)
  • Clean change of clothes
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Bottle of unscented hand sanitizer
  • 1 Picture of family & 1 picture of the student

This program is supported by the United Way of Siouxland and many other YMCA supporters.

United Way of Siouxland Get on the Bus