Youth Development

The YMCA is committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen. From cradle to career, the Y empowers young people to lead inspired, successful lives.

Youth in Government

A youth-led program where students simulate government and national processes while embracing the Y's core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Lifeguard

The YMCA’s nationally-recognized Lifeguard Certification program prepares you for one of the most highly demanded jobs in the country.

Workforce Development

The Y empowers tomorrow’s leaders to prepare for the future, identify and achieve their goals and strengthen their communities.

DEVELOPMENT ROADMAP

Birth

Child development begins the moment they are born. All children need support as they develop so they are best prepared to progress through their unique journey.

Ages 0-4

Cognitive Milestones

  • Actively explores surroundings
  • Develops basic recognition of letters, numbers and shapes

Physical Milestones

  • Has a routine of healthy eating, playing and sleeping

Social/Emotional Milestones

  • Forms positive attachment to a caregiver
  • Responds to environmental stimulation

Tip: Help early readers practice how to differentiate one letter from another and to attach a sound to a letter by providing partner reading or reading aloud.

Supports: Cognitive Development

Grades K-5

Cognitive Milestones

  • Sets academic expectations of good grades

Physical Milestones

  • Has access to healthy foods
  • Masters fine and gross motor skills through activity
  • Learns basic safety habits

Social/Emotional Milestones

  • Exhibits a desire to learn
  • Forms positive peer relationships
  • Engages in activities that strengthen social-emotional competencies

Tip: The Y ensures that lunches and snacks provided are healthy and nutritious. If children bring their own lunch, post reminders about making healthy choices at home.

Supports: Physical Development

Grades 6-8

Cognitive Milestones

  • Self-directs their learning

Physical Milestones

  • Is engaged in positive physical activity
  • Establishes resistance to risk-taking activities

Social/Emotional Milestones

  • Has a positive non-parent adult mentor
  • Has positive peer influence
  • Participates in leadership-building activities

Tip: Ask children to think of a question about their world, create a plan and investigate.

Supports: Cognitive Development

Grades 9-12

Cognitive Milestones

  • Passes most of their classes
  • Masters a favorite subject
  • Masters math and/or science

Physical Milestones

  • Establishes a peer group that supports healthy habits

Social/Emotional Milestones

  • Feels supported by others
  • Feels empowered
  • Connects with community, school and/or faith community

Tip: Provide volunteer service opportunities for children, giving them the chance to interact with community members and give back in a positive way.

Supports: Social-Emotional Development

After High School: Four Years

Cognitive Milestones

  • Has a financial plan to support post-secondary studies
  • Has a career plan
  • Transitions into career of choice

Physical Milestones

  • Establishes a peer group that supports healthy habits

Social/Emotional Milestones

  • Begins working on a career plan
  • Has positive peer influence
  • Develops time- and stress-management skills

Tip:Connect career-bound teens with a caring professional who can help them plan for their future.

Supports: Social-Emotional Development

Career

A teen’s development journey continues into adulthood. The support children and teens receive at the Y is important to helping them realize their potential to be active, engaged and thriving members of the community.