MAKING QUALITY EARLY EDUCATION AFFORDABLE
First Step Preschool & Universal Pre-Kindergarten
2022-2023 YMCA First Step Preschool Registration Packet
Help your child develop the skills needed to succeed by enrolling in First Step Preschool at the Y where we make getting a quality preschool education fun for them and affordable for you. Our preschool is located at The Center For Youth Programs on Liberty Street in Middletown. Each day, children are challenged by a fun-filled age appropriate curriculum developed by nurturing and experienced teachers to help students grow individually. Our curriculum even includes weekly swim lessons.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE
Financial assistance is available through our ACCESS program and made possible by the proceeds donated to the YMCA’s Annual Strong Kids Campaign. To apply for financial assistance: click here to print an ACCESS application and return the completed application to the Y. Note: The financial assistance process may take up to 4 weeks.
TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE
A Family Advantage Membership is included with enrollment into the YMCA Frist Step Preschool program. With a Family Advantage Membership you will have access to additional programs and services at all of our branches. Please see the Preschool registration packet for additional details.
3 Year Old Preschool Program


Our 3 year old program encourages socialization and interaction while introducing academic elements in a fun and motivating environment. Hands-on projects and lessons using a variety of mediums such as glue, crayons, scissors, clay, sand, and occasionally “goop” helps children develop fine motor skills while gym time, weekly swimming lessons, and outdoor play builds strong gross motor skills.
- Child must be 3 years old by December 1st and be potty trained
- 1 Teacher and an assistant to 13 Children
- 2, 3 or 5 Day Option
- Half Day, Full Day & Extended Day Available
4 Year Old Pre-Kindergarten Program


This Kindergarten readiness program helps acclimate children to the classroom setting. Our trained and caring teachers help children develop self-worth, independence and a sense of accomplishment through a curriculum designed to help master the basics required for kindergarten and stimulate a willingness to learn. Classroom challenges are modified when needed to allow children to work, play and learn at their own pace. Lessons on simple science, basic math, and early literacy are incorporated into a typical school day. Songs, gym activities, weekly swimming lessons, and games make the program complete.
- Child must be 4 years old by December 1st and be potty trained.
- 1 Teacher and an assistant to 15 Children
- 2, 3 or 5 Day Option
- Half Day, Full Day & Extended Day Available
REGISTRATION | CONTACT |
---|---|
2022-2023 Registration Packet Return completed packet to the YMCA in-person or email to childcare@middletownymca.org | Sue Cummings scummings@middletownymca.org 845-395-1025 |
Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program – 4 Year Olds


The YMCA of Middletown has contracted with the Middletown School District to offer a free Universal Pre-K (UPK) program to families that reside in the Middletown School District. This is a kindergarten readiness program. Our New York State certified teacher, along with her assistant will help to acclimate your child to their upcoming kindergarten classroom environment. A primary goal of this program is to provide students with instruction in early literacy, basic math and simple science, as well as swimming lessons and gym time. Our teachers, along with resources from the Middletown School District, encourage your child’s learning by helping them develop a sense of self-worth, independence and a sense of accomplishment. Though the curriculum is our own, we work closely with the district to provide the basics required for kindergarten and a strong educational foundation. All classes have weekly swim lessons. Registration is conducted through the Middletown School District. This registration does not guarantee placement, but puts your child into the UPK lottery.
- Child must be 4 years old by December 1st and potty trained.
- 1 teacher and an assistant to 18 children
- Monday – Friday
- Morning Session 9:00am – 11:30am / Afternoon Session 12:15pm – 2:45pm
- UPK students may attend an extended school day if registered for our half-day and/or extended day preschool program in addition to their UPK day.
Learn more about UPK program in Middletown
MEET THE TEACHERS


Ms. Sue Cummings
Child Care Director


Ms. Melanie Funicello
UPK Teacher


Ms. Vanessa Martinez
UPK Teacher Assistant


Ms. Stephanie Barrios
UPK Teacher


Ms. Karima Johnson
UPK Teacher Assistant


Ms. Amanda Tormey
Pre-K Teacher


Ms. Aisha Matias
Pre-K Teacher Assistant


Ms. Naomi Marrero
Pre-K Teacher


Ms. Latoya Miller
Pre-K Teachers Assistant


Ms. Wendy Lofrese
Preschool Teacher


Ms. Bianca Casiano
Preschool Teacher Assistant


Ms. Elida Ramos
Preschool Teacher


Ms. Michelle Goodwin
Preschool Teacher Assistant
Ms. Michelle Goodwin
Preschool Teacher Assistant
PRESCHOOL BEFORECARE / AFTERCARE STAFF


Ms. Destiny Keitt


Ms. Brianna Demara


Ms. Rita Porter