We all know kids love to play. But did you know they also learn while they play? Children at play are already building the foundation for their major life skills, including language and literacy, mathematics, science and technology, and the arts. Playtime experiences are an important way to understand how kids learn, and how we can help them learn more effectively.

To support this, the YMCA of Greater Toronto developed the YMCA Playing to Learn curriculum. The curriculum takes all areas of your child’s development into account, including their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social behaviour. We then adapt the curriculum to meet the specific needs of your child. That way, your child’s interests help shape their learning experience.

The educators also benefit from a unique training program that lets them access the latest educational tools and processes. YMCA Playing to Learn gives our Early Childhood Educators a framework to regularly improve their own professional knowledge. This framework includes formal training and on-site mentoring for all staff that work with children.

YMCA Playing to Learn is already recognized as a leading approach to instilling a strong educational ethic in kids. The curriculum is being rolled out nationally in all YMCAs across Canada.