Learn, Grow, and Thrive with the Y

The Y is proud to partner with the Bellingham School District to provide high-quality, active learning opportunities designed to engage and expand young minds. Through our Before and After-School Enrichment (BASE) program, we provide a safe, caring, and fun environment where kids can participate in active play, arts, STEM, and other hands-on learning activities.

Before and After-School Enrichment

BASE is a school-year program that runs from September through June. Families attending Bellingham School District sites are offered after-school programming. 

Locations and Registration Links

Registration

Registration for the 2026-27 school year will open as follows:

Full-Time Care (4+ Days a Week)

  • May 18 — Opens for current families (BASE/Early Learning participants)
  • May 26 — Opens for all community families

Part-Time Care (Up to 3 Days a Week)

  • June 1 — Opens for current families (BASE/Early Learning participants)
  • June 8 — Opens for all community families
Registration is currently available for current families, including siblings, and incoming early learning students. Please select your school. You will be asked to enter the verification code you have already received before continuing to registration.

Find the Info You Need to Know

Learn more about Before and After-School Enrichment (BASE) hours, financial assistance, and fees below.

Registration for the 2026-27 school year will open as follows:

Full-Time Care

  • May 18 — Opens for current families (BASE/Early Learning participants)
  • May 25 — Opens for all community families

Part-Time Care

  • June 1 — Opens for current families (BASE/Early Learning participants)
  • June 8 — Opens for all community families

Please contact our registrar to be added to a waitlist.

Monthly costs reflect the total care for the school year divided equally by 10 for each month of care. To see a full breakdown of rates, click here.

There is also a one-time annual r egistration fee of $50, regardless of care option.

The Y is committed to ensuring all families access quality and enriching programs. We accept Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) and other subsidies at many locations. In addition, the Y provides financial assistance and will work with you to find a tuition amount that works within your family's budget.

Please complete this form to learn more about financial assistance. Once the form is received, our staff will contact you within three business days.

You can find this in your Daxko Partent Portal. Our tax ID number is 91-0482690. If you have questions please email our Registrar at registrar@whatcomymca.org

You can add, remove, or change authorized pick-ups through your Daxko Partent Portal. If you have questions please email our Registrar at registrar@whatcomymca.org

Yes

You can find the policy and form to make changes or cancellations by clicking here.

Please read our full inclement weather policy.

In Bellingham, we offer coverage for their Purple Fridays. We also offer full-day programs during winter break, spring break, and some other non-school days.

Please email our Registrar at registrar@whatcomymca.org

In the Bellingham School District, the Y serves kindergarten through fifth-grade kids. They must be five years old by the first day of the program.