At the Greater Austin YMCA, we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success. We focus on holistically nurturing child development by providing a safe and healthy place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy trusting relationships, and build self-reliance. While nearly 1,000 children aged 8 weeks to 11 years old enjoyed Northwest Family YMCAs FREE Kids Play last year, we knew this space could more deeply support our children’s learning and development while fulfilling an even greater community need.
Our Current Space
Limited opportunities for open-ended, hands-on play, which has been shown to improve the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children. So, alongside a team of the best children’s museum designers, we are creating an immersive, interactive, play-based learning environment.
Inspired By
The unique landscape of the Northwest Family YMCA has inspired our new nature-themed space which will be filled with fun: STEAM-based (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) exhibits; a creative corner; active play for gross motor development; safe and engaging soft play for our youngest visitors; and sensory respite for downtime.
Interested in learning more?
Receive additional information on the renovation, including expected completion dates and the Grand Opening event by emailing abby.mechling@austinymca.org.
Help us empower and educate young people.
Together, we can co-create, expand, and subsidize early learning opportunities like Explorer Point through your financial support. We believe that our focus on creating STEAM and social-emotional learning experiences will ensure brighter futures for young people in our community. Click here to donate now.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Reach out to adrienne.barnett@austinymca.org for more information.
