Offering Safe Childcare Programs at the Countryside Y

The Countryside YMCA is offering safe childcare programs for the 2021 and 2022 school year by following CDC, state and local requirements and guidelines.

Registration for before and after school care for the 2021 and 2022 school year is now open at all locations operated by Countryside YMCA, in Warren County, Ohio. The Y’s afterschool programs are a place where children can remain active, learn and stay engaged during their time out of school – a critical time for all school-age children. 

The Y’s afterschool program launched in 1989 and served families in the Lebanon school district. The program has grown and now also serves families in the Clinton Massie, Little Miami and Kings school districts. Through a balanced approach to youth development, the program offers activities, mentorship and academic support, nurturing the potential of all participants throughout the school year. Financial assistance is also available to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.

“As an organization dedicated to youth development, Countryside YMCA knows how important it is that our children have a safe and enriching environment for learning, both in and out of school,” said Jenny Poling, the executive director of youth and family in a statement. “We are pleased to be able to provide this space to the children in our community, allowing their invaluable social, emotional, physical and academic growth to continue long after the school day ends.”

In order to continue offering safe childcare programs throughout the school year and into the next, the Countryside Y has been following CDC, state and local requirements and guidelines.

Currently the guidelines in childcare programs include: 

• Staff and school-age children who are kindergarten and older are required to wear masks in all indoor areas and in outdoor areas when social distancing is not possible.
• Health screenings and temperature checks will be done on all students and staff upon arrival. Kids and staff must have a temperature below 100.4 to participate that day.
• Drop off and pick up will be located outside or in the lobby to limit the amount of traffic within the buildings. 
• Ratios and group sizes have been determined based on the ability to properly social distance. Staff practices social distancing and plans age appropriate socially distant activities.
• Staff and children follow rigorous handwashing throughout the day.
• There is frequent cleaning and sanitizing of high traffic areas throughout the day.