Child Development

Learn, grow, and thrive.

Give your kid a structured environment of educational enrichment, physical activity, and fun!

We provide programs for children ages 1-12. Y Child Care includes programs that are for a few hours or all day, once in a while or every week all year long. Our licensed operation prioritizes safety and ensuring every child that comes into our care can learn, grow, and thrive.

We would love to be a part of your family's life-long memories. Take a look at our Parent Packet for our policies and procedures.

To contact us, you can call (719) 543-5151 ext. 263 or fill out our online form.

Please bring completed registration forms to the main lobby front desk.

Parent Packet 2025
Please read prior to signing your child up

Sick Child Policy

Universal Preschool
We are a proud provider! Learn more

Praesidium Accredited

The YMCA of Pueblo has been awarded the highest honor for abuse prevention practices by Praesidium. This accreditation reaffirms the YMCA’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all members, staff, and program participants. Praesidium specializes in preventing sexual abuse in organizations that serve youth and vulnerable adults. Pursuing Praesidium Accreditation creates a pathway to align the organization’s mission and values with best practices in abuse prevention. This also gives organizations written resources to strengthen prevention efforts, and consultation with Praesidium experts.

The YMCA of Pueblo is one of the first 30 Y’s in the country to receive this accreditation, and the first in the state of Colorado to receive it. The accreditation process consisted of a seven month process. Starting with a thorough review of the policies and procedures, an onsite inspection of operations, and then full implementation. The Praesidium Accreditation is renewed every three years. The YMCA of Pueblo continues to uphold its mission of promoting youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Praesidium Accreditation demonstrates that the organization meets the highest standards in abuse prevention. Sexual abuse is a preventable risk and together we can make a difference.

Nicole Flanscha

Nicole

Hello, my name is Nicole Flanscha and I'm the Director of Child Development. With over 24 years of experience in early childhood education, I’ve dedicated my career to creating nurturing, enriching environments where children can thrive. For 13 of those years, I proudly owned and operated my own child care center in Fowler, Colorado—an experience that deepened my passion for supporting families and helping young minds grow.

For the past three years, I’ve been part of the YMCA family, continuing my mission to provide high-quality care and learning opportunities for children.

Here's a little more about me:

Favorite animal? Dog!
Favorite color? Purple!
What is the meal you could eat every day for the rest of your life? Sour Cream Tortillas!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Butter Pecan!

Ashley Leinen

Ashley

Hello! I'm Ashley and I am the Assistant Director of Child Development. With over a decade of experience in child care and two exciting years as a STEM teacher, I bring a passion for learning, creativity, and connection to everything I do. You’ve probably seen me around—I'm the very tall staff member who’s obsessed with Disney, palm trees, and making kids smile!

I’ve been part of the YMCA team for about three years now, and I truly feel at home here. Being surrounded by staff who feel more like family makes this work all the more meaningful.

Here's a little more about me:

Favorite animal? Giraffe!
Favorite color? Purple!
What is the meal you could eat every day for the rest of your life? Mashed Potatoes!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Birthday cake!

Summer Adventure Camp

2025 Summer Day Camp

June 2 - August 8

Join us this summer for Day Camp at the YMCA! Day Camp is an exciting and enriching experience for children, offering a mix of fun activities, physical exercise, and valuable life skills. Campers engage in outdoor adventures, swimming, arts and crafts, team-building games, sports, and a safe inclusive environment. Kids are encouraged to develop confidence, social skills, and independence, while making lasting friendships. Day Camp is a great opportunity to explore nature, participate in themed challenges, and enjoy field trips.

Ages 5-12 | 4-Day + 5-Day Options

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

4-DAY

5-DAY

Field Trips

Week 1 City Park Week

Week 2 Skate Week: Skate City

Week 3 PCC Stem Center

Week 4 Ice Skating

Week 5 Camp Jackson [Rye]

Week 6 Bowling Week: Bowlero

Week 7 TBA

Week 8 Planetarium [Colorado Springs]

Week 9 Mining Museum [Colorado Springs]

Week 10 Movie Week: Cinemark Theather

*FIELD TRIPS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Themes

Week 1 Adventure Begins

Week 2 Skate Nation

Week 3 Next Gen Constructors

Week 4 Chills & Thrills

Week 5 Nature Unleashed

Week 6 Pin Pals

Week 7 TBA

Week 8 Mission Impossible

Week 9 Unearthed Adventures

Week 10 Building the Finale

Youth & Family

Join the Fun and Build Your Future with Youth & Family Programs at the YMCA of Pueblo!

Looking for exciting ways to learn, grow, and make a difference? The YMCA of Pueblo has you covered with a variety of dynamic Youth and Family programs designed to inspire, educate, and empower!

Family Nerf Wars

OPEN TO ALL AGES | 5:30pm-7:00pm

Family Nerf Wars will be held the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month through August 15 (Does not include July 4). Get ready for an action-packed family showdown! Join us for Family Nerf Wars, where parents and kids team up in a friendly battle of foam dart fun. Bring your favorite Nerf blasters and we will provide the darts! This exciting event is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're dodging darts or defending your base, it's a night full of laughter, strategy, and unforgettable memories.

Next Session: August 8, 2025

AUGUST 8 AUGUST 22

CPR/FA Class

Whether you're looking to boost your resume or just want to learn something new, our CPR and Babysitting Certification Courses are the perfect place to start. These hands-on, interactive classes teach real-world skills that not only prepare you for jobs but also give you the confidence to step up in emergencies and care for others responsibly.

Adult Only Courses

Learn Adult Child, and Pediatric CPR, First Aid, and AED skills at the YMCA. This class will have both hands-on and lecture components. Lecture components will be done online prior to attending the class. You must pass an in-person skills test. At the end of this class, you will receive a two-year certification from the Red Cross. COURSES TBA

Family Courses

The parents will receive a FA/CPR certification, the children will learn basics during the class. We feel it is important for all members of a family to know what to do in case of an emergency. We will go over those basics. Parents will be asked to provide an email for each parent to receive the online training and then the class time will be to test your skills. COURSES TBA

Homeschool Recreation

AGES 6 THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

Looking for a well-rounded way to support your homeschooler’s physical and social development? The YMCA’s Homeschool Recreation Program offers a fun, engaging environment where kids can learn, move, and grow—mind, body, and spirit!

Designed for ages 6 through High School Senior, this program includes a wide variety of activities to spark curiosity and build healthy habits:

Physical Education to develop coordination, fitness, and teamwork
Art to inspire creativity
Science for hands-on discovery and exploration
Swimming to build water safety and confidence
Group Exercise to promote healthy lifestyles
Rock Climbing for confidence, problem-solving, and fun

REGISTRATION COMING SOON

Jamboree

Saturday, October 25

Get into the fall spirit at our Jack-O’-Lantern Jamboree! Bring the whole family and join us for a festive evening of pumpkin painting, creativity, and seasonal fun on Saturday, October 25.

Each family will receive a pumpkin to decorate together — whether you go spooky, silly, or sparkly, it’s all about making memories (and masterpieces) together. We’ll provide the paint, brushes, and good vibes you bring your imagination! Costumes are welcome, and fall treats may make an appearance too! Don’t miss this cozy, creative way to celebrate the season.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON!

Halloween Extravaganza

Friday, October 31 | All ages welcome

Get ready for a frightfully fun time at our FREE Halloween Extravaganza open to the entire community! Join us for an evening packed with spook-tacular games, loads of candy, face painting, a bounce house, and so much more. Come dressed in your favorite costume and enjoy a safe, family-friendly celebration full of tricks, treats, and festive fun for all ages. Don’t miss this hauntingly good time!

FREE TO THE PUBLIC!

MOM SON DANCE

OPEN TO ALL AGES | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Follow the Yellow Brink Road to the YMCA's 2nd Annual Mom Son Dance! All ages are invited to a magical evening in the Emerald City! Join us Saturday, November 8, 2025, for a Wizard of Oz-themed Mom Son Dance that's full of fun, laughter, prizes, and unforgettable memories. Dress to impress and step onto the Yellow Brick Road as you enjoy dancing, games, photo ops, and themed activities that will transport you over the rainbow!

REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 18

Don't miss your chance to be part of this heartwarming tradition. There's no place like the YMCA!

Father Daughter Dance

Saturday, February 8, 2026 | 5pm-10pm

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 8, 2026 as the YMCA presents the Father Daughter Dance, part of our enchanting Emerald City series inspired by The Wizard of Oz. This all-ages evening is the perfect opportunity for dads, father figures, and daughters to dress up, dance the night away, and make unforgettable memories together.

Step into a land of emerald greens, sparkling shoes, and twinkling lights as we journey down the Yellow Brick Road for a night filled with fun, music, themed photo ops, and chances to win amazing prizes!

REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 24

Preschool

YMCA Preschool is a licensed childcare program, and offers new lessons to kids every day! We have the best staff available, and we are constantly developing new learning opportunities for your kids. Plus, since YMCA Preschool is in our state of the art facility, kids have so much more to do than anywhere else in Pueblo! Please note: we are a nut-free facility

Take a look at Preschool Plus as well. It allows your child to spend more time with friends and Y staff in our fun, enriching environment!

Ages

YMCA Preschool is for children ages 3-6 (must be toilet trained).

Schedule

YMCA offers multiple options for preschool. All preschool options include a $60 registration fee.

Program	Y Member	Community Member	Ages	Days	Times
2 Day AM	$175/Month	$195/Month	3 - 4	T/Th	8:00am - 11:00am
3 Day AM	$205/Month	$225/Month	4 - 5	M/W/F	8:00am - 11:00am
4 Day PM	$235/Month	$255/Month	4 - 6	M-Th	11:30am - 2:45pm

More Info and Registration

YMCA Preschool is a licensed program, so you must sign registration forms in person at the YMCA of Pueblo's Child Development Center, located north of the main entrance. Please contact Nicole Flanscha with any questions, or to inquire about scholarships, at 719.543.5151 x 263

REGISTER TODAY FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR!

2 Day AM Preschool

This program is designed for the developing 3-year-old. It focuses on socialization, creativity, as well as, pre-reading and pre-math skills.

Time

Tuesday / Thursday
8:00am - 11:00am

3 Day Preschool

This program is designed for the developing 4 and 5-year-old. It focuses on socialization, creativity, science, reading, math, and kindergarten readiness skills.

Time

Monday / Wednesday / Friday
8:00am - 11:00am

4 Day Preschool

This program is designed for the developing 4 to 6-year-old child. It focuses on socialization, creativity, science, reading, math, and Kindergarten readiness skills.

Time

Monday - Thursday
11:30am - 2:45pm

Need to make an update about your Child Care?

Please fill out our online form below.

CHILD CARE UPDATES

MEET OUR STAFF!

Ms. Veronica

Veronica

Hi, I'm Veronica and I am a lead preschool teacher. This is my 15th year at the Y and I'm lucky to be able to do what I love! I am a mom of four and a "Gigi" to a 4 year old granddaughter. I love spending time with my family watching sports and making memories. I am blessed to be able to do what I love!

Here's a little more about me:

Favorite animal? Our 4-pound emotional support dog Bronxy :)
Favorite shape? Heart!
What is the meal you could eat every day for the rest of your life? Mexican food!
Favorite color? Coral!

Ms. Harlee

Harlee

My name is Harlee and I am a lead preschool teacher. I started working for the YMCA in September of 2017. I am newly engaged and have recently bought a house! We have two dogs at home and love to be in the mountains, camping, fishing, and hiking any time we get the chance to!

Here's a few of my favorite things:

Favorite animal? Elephant!
What's your favorite meal that you could eat everyday? Steak, shrimp, and mashed potatoes!
What's on your bucket list? Visiting every National Park!
What's your favorite color? Purple!

Preschool Plus

The Preschool Plus Program is run by licensed professionals and serves preschool-aged children (3-6). Options are available for all-day care (5+ hours) or part-time care. Parents have the option to enroll in both Preschool and Preschool Plus. Children enrolled in Preschool Plus must bring a cold-style lunch, two snacks and blanket, depending on the hours they will be in the program. Please note: We are a nut-free facility. No microwave available.

Hours

7:00am - 6:00pm

Ages

3-6 years, must be potty trained

More info

For more information or to inquire about scholarships, contact Nicole Flanscha at 719.543.5151 x 263

Pricing

YM = YMCA members CM = Community members

Any care exceeding 5 hours will be charged as full time.

	*5 hours (7am-12pm)	Full Day (7am-6pm)
3 Day	YM-$240 CM-$300	YM-$600 CM-$720
4 Day	YM-$320 CM-$400	YM-$800 CM-$960
5 Day	YM-$400 CM-$500	YM-$1,000 CM-$1,200

*Participants must pick one of the half day options in order to participate in the half day program.

Need to make an update about your Child Care?

Fill out our online form below.

CHILD CARE UPDATES

MEET OUR STAFF!

Ms. Kaylona

Kaylona

My name is Kaylona and I am a preschool plus teacher. I am 22 years old and have a son. I love to be outdoors. I also enjoy watching movies.

Here's a few of my favorite things:

Favorite animal? Giraffe!
What's you favorite meal that you could eat everyday? Any type of Mexican food!
Favorite Color? Pink!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Cookies and cream!

Ms. Rachel

Rachel

My name is Rachel and I am a preschool plus assistant teacher. I am currently in college studying Early Childhood Education. In addition I am also studying Criminology. I am originally from Kansas but I have been living in Colorado for five years.

Here's a few of my favorite things:

Favorite animal? Penguin!
What's you favorite meal that you could eat everyday? Fiesta cheese and chips!
Favorite Color? Mint Green.
Favorite ice cream flavor? Chocolate!

Ms. Larissa

Larissa

Hi, I'm Larissa and I am a lead preschool teacher. I love working out, art, listening to music, and hanging out with my friends and family.

Here's a little more about me:

Favorite animal? Elephant!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Cookie dough!
What is the meal you could eat every day for the rest of your life? Pizza!
Favorite color? Purple!

Ms. Sherine

Hi I'm Sherine! I am a mom of a 6 year old girl. I bowl in my free time, my daughter and I are on a bowling league! I love Halloween and I am born and raised here in Colorado. I wanted to work here at the Y to work with the little kids again. I took early child development in college and I wanted to work with kids since I have been in high school.

Favorite topic to teach? Art.
Favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla bean.
A meal you could eat everyday? Sushi.
Slides or swings? Swings.

After School Care + Fridays at The Y

We continue to partner with District 60 and District 70 during these uncertain times. We will adjust our programs accordingly. Please check back here for information.

After School Program

We partner with Pueblo School Districts to provide quality, affordable options for students. Give your child an after school program that's fun, interactive and educational. Our staff provides safe, affordable, high-quality care. We give kids the encouragement they need to take initiative and tools that help improve school performance and behavior. We offer After School Care Monday-Thursday, immediately following school dismissal, until 6:00pm. Times may vary due to individual school schedule or district. Snow days are covered by tuition.

The YMCA of Pueblo is proud to offer convenient and affordable School-Age Care Programs. We have several options for the times when school is not in session: After School Care and Fridays at the Y. We partner with you to nurture your child’s healthy development.

Please note: We are a nut-free facility

Activities

Arts & crafts
Sports
Homework help
Creative & constructive activities
Possible field trips and swimming is scheduled

Registration

The Y Child Care is a licensed program, so you must sign registration forms in person at the Y. Feel free to call us with any questions at 719.543.5151 x 263 or fill out our online form.

You must pay your first month at the time of registration. $10 late fee per child for late payments. $20 non-sufficient funds fee applies to all returned payments. Parent Packet and shot records are due at the time of registration. 30-day grace period for Well Child Check/Physical Form.

Service Areas:

Main YMCA Campus
Villa Bella
Desert Sage

Transportation Provided:

Cedar Ridge
Swallows
Prairie Winds
Liberty Point

For more information, or to inquire about scholarships, contact Nicole Flanscha at 719.543.5151 x 263.

Pricing

YM = YMCA members CM = Community members

	Prices are per month
2 Day	YM-$160 CM-$200
3 Day	YM-$240 CM-$300
4 Day	YM-$320 CM-$400

Fridays at the Y

No school? No problem! Bring your kids into the Y for a fun-filled, interactive and educational day! Great for holidays, teacher workdays, or any other time school is out. We partner with your school district to provide quality, affordable options for students.

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 7:00am - 6:00pm

Pricing:

Y Members = $65/day
Community Members = $75/day

Bonus Days

Out of school? Bring your kids to the Y for a day full of fun, interactive activities such as: swimming, rock climbing, sports and more! Great for holidays, snow days, teacher workdays, or any other time school is out. We build our schedule based off of Pueblo School District 70.

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 7:00am - 6:00pm

Pricing:

Y Members = $50/day
Community Members = $60/day

Need to make an update for your School Age Care?

Fill out our online form below.

CHILD CARE UPDATES

Parents & Kids Night Out

Enjoy some YOU time!

Parents Night Out at the YMCA is your chance to enjoy your own time. Go out to dinner, enjoy a movie, take an evening hike or just enjoy some quiet time at home! Drop your kids off, go enjoy your evening while your kids play here, then pick them up! We'll feed them and make sure that they have fun swimming, playing games, and making crafts. Please contact Nicole Flanscha with any questions at 719-543-5151 x 263. See what your kids can expect at Parents Night Out with the video below:

WATCH VIDEO

**Children must bring closed toe shoes, water bottle, and swim attire**

Next PNO Dates:

June 28
July 12
July 26
August 9

Schedule

Held on a select Saturday every month!
4:00pm-5:00pm ......... Dinner
5:00pm-5:45pm ......... Art/Craft
5:45pm-7:30pm ......... Y Activity (Climbing, Swimming, Sports, Bounce House, etc)
7:30pm-9:00pm ......... Movie

Ages 3-12

*Ages 3 and up must be potty trained.*

Cost

Members = $20 per child
Non-Members = $28 per child

**You must register by noon the day before the event**

JULY 12

JULY 26

AUGUST 9

Child Watch

Child Watch is a drop-in program for children ages 6 months to 12 years. Child Watch is held at our indoor play area and is overseen by Y staff. Our Child Watch staff is fully background checked, fingerprinted, and CPR/First Aid trained! We've got the best team in town. Child Watch is a free service to members and guests of the Pueblo YMCA.

Child Watch Hours:

Weekdays: 8:30am-1pm & 5pm-8pm
Saturdays: 9am-12pm
Sundays: Closed

Rules & Guidelines

Ages 6 months to 12 years old
Please ensure your child has socks to wear in Child Watch
2-hour time limit
Parents/Guardians must stay on the YMCA campus.
Please bring your photo ID when you sign in/out your child
Child watch is available on a first come, first serve basis

Guest Pass Policy

Guests of ACTIVE YMCA of Pueblo members are welcome to utilize child watch during their visit.
Children must pick up a child watch pass at the front desk to be redeemed with child watch staff before use of service.
View our full Guest Pass Policy here.

MEET OUR STAFF!

Jessica

My name is Jessica Kelly. I’m married and a mother of two! I was born in Pueblo, but was not raised here. I moved back after high school. Shortly after arriving, I attended Pueblo Community College and obtained an AAS Degree. I was finishing school when my daughter became ill.

I actually chose the Y because for 2 whole years my daughter wasn’t herself and for the first time I saw my kid being a kid when her Cancer foundation had thrown a Halloween party that past year here at the YMCA. I think a place that can make that much of a difference in one kid’s day is something I’d be proud to be a part of.

I’ve watched so many kids thrive and grow in Child Watch. They come in and can be so shy and reserved, scared to be away from their parents and some with very little social skills. They end up making friends, playing, learning to share, and interact with children of all ages. I’ve seen it prepare kids to be in a classroom. It’s wonderful to watch and to be a part of that growth.

I’ve worked for the YMCA for 7 years this May.

Favorite animal? Owls. LOVE OWLS!
What's worse: Snakes or spiders? SPIDERS!!! I actually like snakes!
What's one thing on your bucket list? I think it would be to ride across the country with my husband on our motorcycles. What an adventure that would be.

Casie

Casandra

I am a mother of two daughters whom I adore very much. I am currently in college seeking a degree in Social Work. I love being outdoors and making new adventures with my kids.

What is your favorite animal? Koala bears!
What is the meal you could eat every day? Tacos and rice!
Favorite color? Red!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Rocky road!

Erika

Hello! My name is Erika and I have been working at the YMCA since November of 2017, and I have enjoyed it all very much. I chose the Y because it's very family-oriented, and there hasn’t been a time in my life where I haven’t been without family and caring for young children/babies. My favorite thing is when a child runs, or stops playing, to give me a random hug!

Here's a few of my favorite things:

Favorite color? Periwinkle, black, & glitter 😁✨
Waffles or pancakes? Does a crepe somewhat count as a pancake? Lol
What's on your bucket list? I want to swim in the clearest water I can find and go to New Orleans to experience the Mardi Gras festival 😁

Cassandra

CassandraJ

Hi! My name is Cassandra. I have always loved working with kids and being a part of their growth. I got my degree in ECE in hopes of directing a center, but after years of working with kids, life lead me down a different career path. I have been in my current position for 7 years, but once both of my daughters went off to college, I knew it was time to do what I love. I found this position here at the YMCA and was super excited to be able to spend some of my time interacting with kids.

Favorite animal? Puppies!
What's your favorite meal that you could eat everyday? Puerto Rican rice, or any kind of rice!
What's on your bucket list? Sky diving (as long as the don't count, just jump!)
Favorite color? Red and Pink.
Favorite ice cream flavor? Pralines and cream.

Addyson

I have worked here at the YMCA of Pueblo since August of 2022. I was born and raised here in Colorado. I was a CNA for 2 years before I chose to work with kids. I attended Pueblo Community College and graduated with my Esthetician Certification. I am working as a licensed esthetician during the day and here in child watch in the evenings.

Favorite animal? Black Panther.
What's your favorite meal that you could eat everyday? Street tacos.
What's on your bucket list? Traveling out of the country!
Favorite color? Green!
Favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla or butter pecan!

Valdia

I enjoy working with children and those who are in need, I am a mentor. I've worked at the YMCA for 1 year and I chose the YMCA and then the YMCA chose me! I have a bachelor's degree in sociology with an emphasis on criminal justice. I don't consider myself a teacher, I guide and help others and learn new choices and experiences.

Favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla! It can go with any other flavor.
Early bird or night owl? Early bird.
A meal you could eat every day? Fried Chicken.
Favorite shape? Octagon
Dogs or cats? Dogs!

GET INVOLVED!

At the YMCA of Pueblo, we’re dedicated to helping families grow stronger together, all year long! Our youth and family programs offer exciting opportunities for kids and parents alike, focusing on fun, fitness, and personal development. From after-school activities to seasonal events, there’s always something happening to engage and inspire. Check out our Events and Seasonal Programs pages for the latest updates and discover how you and your family can get involved. Join us in creating a healthier spirit, mind, and body—because at the Y, we're all about building a thriving, connected community!