Preschool | Salem YMCA Family Center
Preschool for Ages 3–5
We offer safe, affordable and high quality care year-round at the Salem YMCA Family Center in Virginia Beach. Enrollment is open year round, as long as space is available.
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 6:30am to 6pm
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 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.
Weekly Rate:
YMCA Members: $181
Regular Rate: $234
Enrollment Fee: $100
Weekly payments are automatically drafted from your preferred payment method each Wednesday. Financial assistance is available through our Open Doors program and offers income-based subsidies. Our preschool locations also participate in the Child Care Subsidy Program through the State of Virginia Department of Education.
Preschool Closures
- New Years Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving and the day after
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
- In-service training days (will be communicated at orientation)