Building Confidence Through Play and Learning
At the Y, we believe every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong success. Our Growth & Development programs nurture the essential values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — while building confidence, social skills, and resilience through engaging activities and positive role models. The values and skills children learn early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success, and our caring teachers create a warm, supportive environment where every child can discover their best self. Classes are available for children from infancy through preschool age, with options for families to participate together or for children to take their first steps toward independence.
Our Classes
Our Growth & Development classes are organized by age and stage, so every child gets the right experience at the right time. Here’s what’s available.
Parent & Child
Spend time engaging and creating with your little one! Parent & Child Growth & Development classes require a parent, guardian, or grandparent to accompany each child. These classes are a wonderful way to bond, play, and learn together in a warm, welcoming environment. You’ll leave with activities you can continue at home — and connections that grow well beyond the classroom.
Ages 1½–3 Years
Perfect for the child who is ready for a little independence! These classes are designed to be the first steps toward creating a love of learning, making new friendships, and starting the adventure of taking a class without a parent. Taught by caring Y staff, these sessions introduce children to structure, play, and positive social interactions in a nurturing, age-appropriate setting.
Ages 3–5 Years
These classes are created to foster a love of learning, help children make their first friendships, and build the social and academic skills they’ll carry into preschool and beyond. Through creative activities, guided play, and a values-based curriculum, children develop the confidence and curiosity that sets them up for success in school and in life.
Lunchtime Classes
Is your child enrolled in Preschool, PreK, or Kindergarten Readiness? Extend their day with a fun lunchtime class! Our teachers transfer children to and from class, making this option easy and convenient for parents and caregivers. Lunchtime classes are offered at the Apple Creek YMCA, Appleton YMCA, and Fox West YMCA.
What Your Child Will Gain
Growth & Development classes are designed to build more than skills — they shape the whole child and give families a foundation they can build on together.
Character & Confidence
Activities and positive role models help children discover their best selves and build the confidence that carries them through every stage of life.
Social Skills
Children learn to make friends, take turns, and work together — social skills that matter as much as academic ones.
School Readiness
From learning to follow directions to developing curiosity and creativity, our classes prepare children for a strong start in preschool and beyond.
Safe Environment
Caring, qualified teachers create a nurturing space where children feel secure, supported, and free to explore and try new things.
Looking for Nature-Based Classes?
For nature-focused Growth & Development experiences, explore our Environmental Education programs. Classes for children ages 3–5 spend time outdoors on the Bruce B. Purdy Nature Preserve, combining hands-on discovery with the same values-based approach you’ll find across all Y programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
We offer classes for all early childhood ages: Parent & Child classes for infants and toddlers, classes for ages 1½–3, and classes for ages 3–5. Check the program listing for current sessions and age requirements.
Parent & Child classes require a parent, guardian, or grandparent to participate alongside the child. Classes for ages 1½ and up are designed to give children the experience of taking a class on their own.
Lunchtime Classes are a convenient option for children already enrolled in Preschool, PreK, or Kindergarten Readiness programs at the Y. Teachers transfer children to and from class, and they’re offered at Apple Creek, Appleton, and Fox West YMCAs.
Growth & Development classes are offered at multiple YMCA of the Fox Cities locations. Lunchtime Classes are available at the Apple Creek YMCA, Appleton YMCA, and Fox West YMCA. Check the program listing for locations and availability.
Register online through the program listing on this page. Y members enjoy priority registration and discounted rates. Questions? Contact us at gro.seiticxofacmy@ofniy.
