UPK | YMCA Buffalo Niagara

Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK)

YMCA Buffalo Niagara works in partnership with local school districts to provide Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) services to Western New York families. YMCA UPK programs are designed to prepare your child for kindergarten, in a traditional classroom format to enhance socialization, physical activity, communication, and creative thinking. YMCA UPK programs implement curriculums that meet all state Universal Pre-Kindergarten standards.

You must register with the school district in which you reside before registering with the YMCA. Registration here cannot be completed until you receive confirmation of acceptance by your school district.

Health Forms & Parent Handbook

Individual Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan Individual Health Care Plan for Child with Special Health Care Needs

Medication Consent Form Formulario de Consentimiento Para Medicamentos

2025-26 UPK Parent Handbook

Before and After School Child Care for UPK

Where and how children spend their time is vital to their growth and success in life. At the Y, we help kids reach their potential and thrive in a safe, trustworthy setting. The YMCA offers Before and After School Childcare for students enrolled in our UPK classes at the following sites:

Clarence School District: Independent Health YMCA (am & pm)
Depew School District: Cayuga Heights Elementary (am & pm)
Ken-Ton School District: Hamilton Elementary (am & pm)
Lew-Port School District: Lew-Port Elementary (am & pm)
Orchard Park School District: Southtowns YMCA (pm only)

Our before and after school programs are tuition-based to provide more consistency and convenience. Tuition plans are based on the school district's schedule.

Non-members registering for Universal Pre-K and Before and After School Childcare must create a YMCA account. Click here to get started.