PRYMCA starts pre-K program

    DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Piscataquis Regional YMCA has well-established pre-school and after-school programs and is now expanding into a specialized pre-K program for 4- to 5-year-olds. The program, which will run on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., is open to anyone in the community and financial aid is available.

    “We’re committed to removing barriers so that anyone in our community can take advantage of the child care opportunities at the Y.” said Emily Henderson, the Y’s child care coordinator. “Our well trained, caring staff will give your child  the skills they need to succeed in kindergarten. In addition, there are lots of opportunities for fun and activity and we are thrilled to be able to offer the kids free swim lessons every Friday.”  There is also an opportunity for the kids to transition from pre-K into Y after-school care on any given day if the parents choose.
    The Y’s pre-school program has been growing over the past few years and Henderson is proud to report that for the first time the morning preschool for ages 2 through 5 is full. “All our morning spots for the 2013-14 school year are currently taken,” Henderson said. “But we are encouraging interested parents to get on our waiting list. It isn’t unusual for there to be cancellations as the school year starts and parent’s find their plans and schedules changing … .and of course there are still open slots in the afternoon pre-K for ages 4 and 5.”
    Registration for all the Y’s child care programs is currently open. Morning preschool is for ages 2-5 and afternoon pre-K is for ages 4-5. Financial assistance is available to anyone with need. Call the Y at 564-7111 or stop by 48 Park Street to register or for more information.  
    The Piscataquis Regional YMCA is a cause-driven organization that is committed to the community and dedicated to promoting healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, through programs and services grounded in Christian heritage and the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.