Your child could start free preschool this fall!
Ranked #1 nationally. Backed by a research-based curriculum. And every four-year-old qualifies, thanks to Michigan state funding.
The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids offers universal preschool to all families, through Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program. You know how quickly your child’s brain is developing at this age. Let’s help your child develop a love for school!
High-quality preschool for children. Meaningful support for working parents.
We focus on preparing children for kindergarten and beyond by providing high-quality early childhood education that meets state standards. Children have opportunities to learn in a play-based environment, building skills in the areas of literacy, language and communication, math, and social & emotional development. All families are eligible, and applications are open.
- Highly qualified teachers who monitor each child’s progress and partner with families to support at-home development.
- Inclusive classroom learning that is supported by a research-based curriculum. Children interact in both large and small group activities, participate in open-ended learning centers, and experience outdoor exploration.
- Family YMCA membership free for the entire school year.
Children must turn 4-years-old by December 1, 2026. This program runs Monday through Thursday, and the ratio for all classrooms is 1 teacher to every 10 children.
Please note: When you apply, choose a YMCA location as your first preference, and it will give us access to process your application.
Immediate openings at these locations:
- Central Station Early Childhood Center
- Visser Family YMCA
- River City Scholars Charter Academy
For questions or to schedule a tour at any of our locations, please contact Aria Porraz, director of our Great Start Readiness Program at aporraz@grymca.org.
See for yourself:
We have two upcoming open houses at our brand-new Central Station Early Childhood Center, and no appointment is needed:
- Wednesday, July 22: 12–4pm
- Tuesday, August 4: 4–7pm
The Central Station Early Childhood Center is located at 250 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. It is situated directly inside The Rapid’s downtown bus hub.
Our locations
Central Station Early Childhood Center
250 Grandville Ave. SW
Grand Rapids MI, 49503
GSRP Free Preschool Program
Friday Care Available*
Before- and After-School Care Available*
David D. Hunting YMCA
475 Lake Michigan Drive
Grand Rapids MI, 49504
GSRP Free Preschool Program
Friday Care Available*
Before- and After-School Care Available*
Visser Family YMCA
3540 Fairlanes SW
Grandville MI, 49418
GSRP Free Preschool Program
River City Scholars
944 Evergreen St SE
Grand Rapids MI, 49507
GSRP Free Preschool Program
SpartanNash YMCA Child Development Center
5722 Metro Way SW
Wyoming MI, 49519
GSRP Free Preschool Program
Friday Care Available*
Before- and After-School Care Available*
Generations Child Development Center
3600 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49546