Ages & adult-to-child ratios

Meet the Director

Kate Shelley-Williams

Early Childhood Program Director

(651) 435-6714

My name is Kate, and I graduated from St. Catherine University in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Early Childhood Education.

I began working for the YMCA in 2013 and have held various roles both within and outside of our Early Childhood programs.

In my free time, I love spending time with my husband and our two daughters. We enjoy exploring the outdoors, going for walks, and spending days together at our home in St. Paul.

My favorite part of working in Early Childhood education is creating a safe, welcoming environment where families feel supported and valued. I’m passionate about helping our team build meaningful connections with children and their families while finding purpose in being a part of creating the next generation!

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 Handbook

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.