We know that when you go to work, you want to be sure your children are in a safe, enriching environment. That’s where we come in! For decades, the Whatcom Family YMCA has offered high quality before and after school care for children. Since then, we have grown to serve 21 elementary schools across six school districts. We are proud to be the largest provider of enrichment programs in the Whatcom County.
General Questions
What is the main focus of our programs?
As with all YMCA programs, our true focus is on character development. Whether we’re creating a work of art or playing a team building game, we instill our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
What qualifications do YMCA childcare professionals have?
YMCA childcare professionals understand the cognitive, physical and social development of kids. They support and encourage children, foster friendships, teach new skills, and have fun!
How are the site directors selected?
Our site directors are selected from a rigorous 3-stage interview process. They also meet or exceed state licensing requirements for education.
What training do all YMCA staff members receive?
All YMCA staff members are background checked annually, receive first-aid and CPR certification, and receive ongoing professional development, training, observation, and support.
ABSENCES AND BILLING
Sick Days & Scheduled Absences
If your child will be absent, you have a change of schedule or you will be going on vacation, please contact the Y's Kids office at 360 255 0585 or email absences@whatcomymca.org. We will take the message and inform the site staff. If you leave a voicemail, please be sure to include your child’s name, school location and the date(s) you are calling about.
Vacation Credits
Due to limited availability and high demand for care, we are not able to offer vacation credit at this time.
Billing Practices
You will receive a bill via email and a newsletter emailed each month around the 20th of the month. Charges that accrued after the last billing will show up as a previous balance. If you have any questions about your bill, please contact the Y's Kids office.
3rd Party Payers(DSHS/DCYF/ETC.)
Please contact the office and we can guide you through the registration procedure. You will receive a monthly bill with your copay amount or a zero balance, but you will still receive a bill and a newsletter. Other charges that are not covered by DSHS may be attached. For example, late pick up or no call fees are the responsibility of the parent. Care used without appropriate authorization on file with the office will also be billed to the parent.
If your child will be absent, you have a change of schedule or you will be going on vacation, please contact the Y's Kids office at 360 255 05855 or email absences@whatcomymca.org. We will take the message and inform the site staff. If you leave a voicemail, please be sure to include your child’s name, school location and the date(s) you are calling about.