Ages & adult-to-child ratios

Meet the Director

Olga Romero

Early Childhood Learning Center Program Director

(612) 268-0056

My Name is Olga Romero. I am a graduate of the University of Mexico in Law and Society. I have worked in Early Childhood Education for over 3 years, I recently joined the Y for the first time and it has been amazing to integrate myself in this warm community.

I currently live here in Mpls with my pug Gara! Whenever I am not at the YMCA, I spend my time going on runs! Painting and trying new restaurants and experiences around the world.

My favorite thing about the U of M YMCA is the extraordinary community, seeing how welcoming the teachers are with the families, how the families engage with the program activities and how the kiddos explode their creativity through learning!

Curriculum & Philosophy

We use the Creative Curriculum® to develop age-appropriate experiences that foster joyful learning. For each child, we address individual needs, build skills for success and incorporate STEM activities. Pairing our curriculum with the YMCA Healthy Kids Initiative, we also provide exposure to healthy eating, nutrition and physical activity for children and their families. 

Curriculum detailsPhilosophy details

On-site amenities

• Bright, colorful classrooms
• Indoor enrichment room
• Interactive boards for preschoolers
• Outdoor playground for all ages

Enrichment programs

Learning at the YMCA Early Childhood Learning Center gives your child multiple opportunities to interact with children and staff that strengthens their confidence and social interactions for kindergarten. 

• Kids’ Fitness
• Language–Spanish and American Sign
• Music and Movement
• Farm to YMCA with gardening and cooking activities
• Yoga
• Environmental Education

Policies

Providing a safe, secure and predictable environment is a top priority for every YMCA Early Childhood Learning Center. For more information about our policies go to:

• Child illness policy
• Food and nutrition
• Nap and rest time
• Program accessibility
• Scholarships and financial assistance
• Weather emergency information
• Behavior guidance
• Accommodation and individual care plans

Parent Referral Program

If you love your Early Childhood Learning experience, spread the word and get rewarded!

It’s easy to make a referral. Pass on the referred parent’s name, along with some basic information about the family to your program director.

• Complete the parent referral form and give it to your program director.
• After the new family has enrolled at any of our Early Childhood Learning Center locations and stayed for at least four weeks, you’ll receive a week’s free tuition for your oldest child.
• You can refer as many families as you’d like to earn more. Every time a child is enrolled as a result of your recommendation, you’ll get a week’s free tuition.