McGaw YMCA Childen's Center

Through an agreement between the University and the McGaw YMCA Children's Center, Northwestern University families are provided the following benefits:

• The University funds enhancements to the YMCA Children's Center programs in the fine arts.
• A YMCA youth membership fee is waived for NU families enrolled in the child care program.
• The University awards need-based fee assistance to eligible families on a first-come, first-served basis.
• NU families are given priority enrollment/wait list status at the center.

Program brochures are available at the McGaw YMCA Children's Center .

Center Programs

The McGaw YMCA Children's Center provides year-round child care for infants and preschool children as well as after-school and summer camp programs for children in elementary and middle school grades. The center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Interested parents are encouraged to tour the facility at their convenience by calling the center at (847) 475-8580.

Learn more about NAEYC.

Early Childhood Education

The full- and part-day early childhood education program provides care for infants through children five years of age. The Infant/Toddler Program offers a safe and nurturing environment where infants and toddlers can be assured of a consistent, loving relationship with an adult caregiver who will focus on the child's whole development. Full- and part-day preschool classrooms offer an integrated program for children two through five years of age.Gym time and swimming classes complement classroom activities and are a regular part of the curriculum - one of the few preschools in the area to offer all of these advantages! Northwestern also funds a music and movement class for preschoolers and various fine arts activities.

After-School

The after-school program divides each grade level (K-5) into groups with experienced counselors to supervise and implement programming. There are three, four and five day options available. In addition, full and half day programs are available for days when children have no school or early dismissal from the Evanston/Skokie School District 65. Swimming, gym, arts and crafts, and special interest classes are part of the weekly schedule. Transportation from school and a nutritious snack is available daily. Contact the center for details.

Fine Arts Program Enhancements

As a part of the partnership, the University will provide resources to enhance programming for the center's preschool and after-school programs. These plans include a fine arts program, which incorporates the skills and talents of faculty and student volunteers as well as professional instructors from the community. Presechoolers benefit from a NU-funded music and movement class.

Enrollment

Priority enrollment is given to Northwestern University faculty, staff and students. Contact The Children's Center registrar to schedule a tour, complete registration paperwork and secure a space or spot on the waiting list. Early registratration and wait list applications are recommended especially for the youngest age groups.

Tuition Scholarship

The University allocates $75,000 in tuition scholarships each year. These funds are awarded to Northwestern families who demonstrate financial need and meet eligibility requirements. Families currently receiving assistance are given priority. Scholarship recipients must be full-time faculty, staff or undergraduate/graduate school students. Professional students are not eligible. Contact the YMCA Children's Center registrar at 847-475-8580 to apply for scholaship funds. Applications are accecpted on a rolling basis. School year awards are determined in May for the following year.

Location

The center is located in Evanston at 1420 Maple on the southwest corner of Maple and Lake near the main YMCA building. This is approximately two blocks south of the Davis Street Evanston Transportation Center.