West Roxbury YMCA451

This YMCA serves West Roxbury and the nearby communities of Roslindale and Dedham. It offers extensive child care options, sports programs, camps, and afterschool youth programs.

Childcare: The Y offers four unique child care programs for children under 5. The Kids' Stop Center, located at 1208 VFW Parkway in W. Roxbury, offers a full-day toddler and Pre-K program for children ages 2-5; activities include swim and gymnastics instruction at the Y. Free babysitting is available to members during specified times.

Preschool: The Small Fry Nursery School is located at the branch. It is a part-time program for children ages 2.9-5 years. Children are grouped according to age. Gym classes and swim instruction are offered, in addition to other school activities.

The Charles River Acres Nursery School in Dedham has operated for over 20 years. It is open to children ages 3-to-5. For more information call 718.326.4379.

Afterschool programs: Supervised childcare is offered both before and after school at several public school locations, as well as at the branch. Many of the programs are sports-based. You can find Gymnastics, Soccer, Tee-Ball, Basketball and Floor Hockey here. Youth and teens can also take Karate.

Swim Lessons: Offered to children beginning at the age 6 months. Parent/Child classes for children 6mos-3yrs allow kids to feel comfortable in the water while parents help teach important skills. The preschool swim program is designed for children ages 3-to-6. Children in grades 1 and above progress through various levels of instruction. The nationally recognized program has seven levels that cover all strokes and safety skills.

Camps: School vacation camps are held in February and April for children ages 5-to-12. All programs offer extended day options. A summer camp is offered for children ages 3-to-15. In addition to day camp, children 6-to-12 can participate in a program at the Hale Reservation. This outdoor camp includes boating, swimming, nature activities, and more. A sports camp is also available.

Parties: Members and non-members can host their child's birthday party at this branch. Pool parties are held on Saturday and Sunday; gym parties on Sundays. Both options allow for 2 hours of fun!