Preschool | YMCA of Portsmouth
Preschool for Ages 3–5
We offer safe, affordable and high quality care year-round at the YMCA of Portsmouth, located on High Street in Portsmouth, VA. Enrollment is open year round, as long as space is available.
Hours:
Full Day: Monday–Friday, 6am 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. |
Preschool Rates
Y Member Weekly Rate: $195
Regular Weekly Rate: $250
Enrollment Fee: $100
Weekly payments are automatically drafted from your preferred payment method 14 days before each week of preschool.
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
- 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)