Kirby Welcomes New and Returning Families

The F.M. Kirby Children’s Center continues to welcome new and returning families since its reopening on June 15. In preparation, the teachers and staff are determined to create a new type of classroom landscape, one that not only encompasses the new health and safety guidelines while also promoting an enriching learning environment for children. With that in mind, the Center has implemented new policies and procedures to continue operations with the health and safety of children as the top priorities.

Like so many parents considering their options during this unprecedented and uncertain time, long-time Kirby parent, Shima A., expressed her hesitation to re-introduce her children to child care and shared the relief of knowing that her children are growing, learning and thriving at Kirby.

“I would like to send big cheers to our beloved F.M. Kirby Children’s Center of the Madison Area YMCA. Our kids went back to Kirby a few weeks ago and we are very happy with the process and procedures they put in place to take care of our children. Before we made our decision to put our kids back…we thought through this really hard. Without a doubt, we did the right thing…I just wanted to recognize how wonderful the teachers and staff at Kirby have been to our children”.

The staff at Kirby have created new curriculum that encourages social distancing while simultaneously fostering educational growth and social development. Students participate in arts and crafts, weekly language classes, and daily circle time. Weather permitting, students also enjoy outdoor water play and playground fun on one of Kirby’s four age-appropriate playgrounds.

As a member of the Madison community, Shima reassured fellow parents that “Every family has their own schedule and pace to get back to the new normal,”.

Thinking about the fall and early education and child care options? With enrollment growing and availability based on current capacity guidelines, parents are encouraged to secure their child’s enrollment spot today. Select summer and fall enrollment opportunities are available for new families with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Please email Director of Child Care Services Karen Fusco at KFusco@madisonymca.org . Visit www.madisonareaymca.org for more information.