High-Quality Early Learning & Childcare for from Infancy to Pre-K in Reading, PA

Choosing the right childcare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At the Reading YMCA’s Early Learning Center, we make it easier by offering safe, reliable, and nurturing early education for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

As part of the YMCA of Reading & Berks County, we are proud to support local families with licensed, year-round care, nutritious daily meals, and an engaging curriculum tailored to every developmental stage. Whether you’re looking for infant care, toddler programs, or pre-K prep, your child will be welcomed into a warm, inclusive environment where they can learn, grow, and build confidence every day.

Why Families Trust the Reading Early Learning Center

• Safe, Licensed, and Caring: Our facility is licensed by the Department of Human Services, and our well-trained staff provides consistent, compassionate care in a secure environment.
• Flexible Hours for Working Parents: We’re open Monday through Friday, 6 AM – 6 PM, with both full-time (up to 10 hours/day) and part-time (up to 5 hours/day) options.
• Meals Included: Children receive breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack daily, saving parents both time and money.
• Educational, Age-Appropriate Curriculum: We support each child’s emotional, social, and academic growth with a curriculum tailored to their developmental stage, from tummy time to pre-K prep.
• Affordable Childcare in Reading, PA: We’re committed to keeping early learning accessible to all families. We offer clear pricing, no hidden fees, and flexible payment options. Scholarships and financial assistance are available to help reduce the cost of care because every child deserves a strong start, regardless of income.

2026 Holiday Closures

• Closed Monday, May 31
• Closed Monday, July 5

Need More Info Before You Register?

Our team is happy to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and make sure you have all the info you need about our programs, tuition assistance, and what makes YMCA early learning different.

Just fill out the interest form, and we’ll be in touch soon. No pressure. Just people who care.

Fees & Payment

Full-time rates are based on 10 hours or less of care per day. Part-time rates are based on 5 or fewer hours per day.

• Registration Fee: $25 per child (due at time of registration)
• Late Pickup Fee: $1 per minute after 6:00 PM or over 12 hours/day
• Overtime Fee: $2 per hour (per child) over 10 hours/day
• Late Payment Fee: $10 per day starting after business hours on Friday
• Payment Options: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly (prepaid)

There is no fee reduction for holidays, illness, vacation, or emergency closings

Families must provide two weeks’ written notice to terminate care

Registration & Enrollment

We’re excited to welcome your family to the YMCA Reading Early Learning Center! Whether you’re ready to enroll or just exploring your options, we’re here to make the process simple and supportive from the very start.

Choose the registration option that works best for you:

In-Person Registration

1. Click here to download and complete all required forms or pick up the Parent Handbook from the Reading YMCA

2. Submit completed paperwork by email to [email protected], drop off or mail to: Reading YMCA Early Learning Center, 631 Washington Street, Reading, PA 19601

3. A staff member will follow up to confirm your child’s enrollment and start date

Online Registration

1. Choose the age group for your child below and fill out the online registration 

2. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a few extra forms to complete

3. Return those forms before your child’s first day to finalize enrollment

Incomplete paperwork can delay your child’s start date, so double-check before sending!

Reading YMCA Early Learning Center Program Info:

Location: 631 Washington Street, Reading, PA 19601

Phone Number: 610-378-4708

Our Leadership Team:

• Shelley Eppihimer, Vice President of Youth Development | [email protected]

• Ashley Price, Early Learning Center Director | [email protected]