Preschool | Salem YMCA Family Center

Early Learning for Ages 1–5

We offer safe, affordable and high quality early learning and preschool year-round at the Salem YMCA Family Center in Virginia Beach. Enrollment is open year round, as long as space is available. Registration for ages 1–2 will open July 1.

Hours:
Monday–Friday: 7am to 6pm

Location Information

Sample Daily Schedule

Arrival & Early Free Play	Children settle in with quiet, independent activities like books, puzzles, and table toys.
Free Play & Transition Activities	Calm activities help children prepare for the structured day ahead.
Morning Snack	A healthy snack that supports independence, social skills, and good nutrition.
Morning Circle Time	Group time for songs, stories, and introducing the day’s theme.
School Begins: Learning Centers & Small Group Activities	Hands-on centers (literacy, math, science, art, dramatic play) led by teachers to support learning.
Outdoor Play & Gross Motor Activities	Active play outside or in the gym builds coordination, teamwork, and motor skills.
Teacher-Led Group Learning	Structured STREAMin³ activities like science, music, or social-emotional learning.
Lunch	Nutritious meal shared together to build independence and social skills.
Rest/Quiet Time	Children nap or enjoy quiet activities to relax and recharge.
Afternoon Snack	A light snack helps children refuel for the rest of the day.
Afternoon Learning Centers & Exploration	Continued learning through art, sensory play, and collaborative activities.
School Ends: Outdoor Play & Movement Activities	Outdoor games and free play to end the school day with movement and fun.
Extended Care: Free Play & Enrichment Activities	Choice-based enrichment like crafts, STEM, and dramatic play.
Final Dismissal	Children are picked up and head home for the day.

Meet the Director: Katrina Thompson

Katrina Thompson Preschool Director - Salem Family YMCA

Katrina brings more than six years of experience in child development, along with a deep passion for helping children learn, grow, and thrive. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management and a Master's in Public Health, combining strong academic training with hands-on expertise in designing engaging, play-based programs for children ages 4–12.

Throughout her career, Katrina has built a strong track record of working with families, schools, and community partners to create inclusive and enriching environments where kids feel safe, supported, and inspired. She believes in the power of playful learning, team collaboration, and family partnerships to support each child’s unique journey.

In her new role, Katrina will oversee youth programs at the Salem Family YMCA, strengthening what we already do well, bringing in new ideas, and ensuring each child’s experience is joyful, active, and developmentally rich. She is also passionate about supporting our staff through ongoing professional development and a shared commitment to the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Outside of work, Katrina is a proud mom of two young children who keep her busy and inspired. Whether it’s planning science experiments at home, going on beach scavenger hunts, or spending time with loved ones, Katrina is always looking for ways to blend fun, learning, and community.

Kids at the Salem YMCA Family Center playing on the playground

A kid at the Salem YMCA Family Center looking through a magnifying glass at plants

Kids at the Salem YMCA Family Center playing on a mat with toys

Kids at the Salem YMCA Family Center doing their coursework

Preschool hallway at the Salem YMCA Family Center

MONTHLY RATES

Tuition is paid monthly by automatic draft from your preferred credit or debit card on the 1st of the month for the 1-Year Old and 2-Year Old classrooms. Weekly payments are not available for these ages. A $100 enrollment fee is due at registration.

Classroom	YMCA Members	Community
1-Year Old Classrooms	$1,170/month	$1,408/month
2-Year Old Classrooms	$910/month	$1,149/month

WEEKLY RATES

Tuition is paid weekly by automatic draft from your preferred credit or debit card on Mondays, 14 days in advance of the school week begin date for the 3-Year Old and 4-Year Old classrooms. Monthly payments are not yet available for these ages. A $100 enrollment fee is due at registration.

Classroom	YMCA Members	Community
3-Year Old Classrooms	$195/week	$250/week
4-Year Old Classrooms	$195/week	$250/week

Classroom placements are based on your child’s age at the start of the academic year. Children progress to the next age group each fall. Your child must be at least 1 year old to enroll.

Need help paying for preschool?
The Y provides income-based rates for preschool through its Open Doors financial assistance program, accepts payment assistance from the Virginia Department of Social Services, and is an approved community provider for Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood assistance.

Preschool Closures