Early Childhood Center
The YWCA Western New York Early Childhood Center is dedicated to nurturing the whole child in emotional, social, intellectual, creative, cultural, and physical development. Our classrooms are safe, caring and intentionally anti-biased ensuring that every child feels seen , valued, and respected.
We believe children learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, build independence, and invite active exploration. Through our research based, play focused curriculum, children discover, imagine and grow at their own pace.
We are proud to partner with families and celebrate the unique strengths each child rings to our community. Together, we create a joyful and supportive foundation for lifelong learning.
Our Center is licensed through the New York State Office of Child & Family Services (OCFS) and upholds high standards of quality, safety, and child-centered practices.
As a Community Child Care Partner with CAO of Western New York’s Early Head Start, we proudly enroll infants and toddlers into the Early Head Start program. Through this partnership, we provide comprehensive early learning experiences and family support services that promote school readiness and healthy growth from the very start.
YWCA WNY / School House Commons
1005 Grant Street
Buffalo, NY 14207
(716) 447-1494
Monday - Friday
7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Fees and Payment ↘
The YWCA WNY partners with the Erie County Department of Social Services (DSS) to ensure that families receiving childcare subsidies can access our center. We also offer funding options for families who are currently on the DSS waiting list for childcare assistance.
As a courtesy to parents, we provide the DSS Childcare Application and Questionnaire on-site to help reduce the need for multiple trips to the DSS office.
For additional information or assistance, please contact the Center Director.
Contact
Shakhia Carson
Director, Early Childhood Center
(716) 447-1494
(716) 852-6120 x.103
Additional Links
Parent Involvement
The YWCA WNY Early Childcare Center values our families and maintains an open-door policy for all of our childcare programs. Parents are encouraged to visit at any time and are welcome to volunteer during classroom activities. We value ongoing parent feedback and invite families to share their thoughts whenever they wish.
Our childcare center is committed to strong family engagement and hosts a variety of family night events throughout the year to support connection and community.
Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Center
Our center is designated by The US Department of Agriculture Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) as a “Breastfeeding friendly child care center.” Information about breastfeeding is available, and mothers are supported if they wish to breastfeed at the center.