YMCA of Coastal Carolina launches a new Preschool in Myrtle Beach

The YMCA of Coastal Carolina launched a new preschool in Myrtle Beach at 306 North Oak Street in September.

Ryan Finney, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, explains,  “The YMCA of Coastal Carolina is committed to advancing youth development opportunities in the Myrtle Beach community. We understand the great need for affordable childcare options, and in particular, preschool options. We run strong After School and Summer Programs, and now are expanding to preschool to fill a great need in our area. Families in the Myrtle Beach area need access to quality preschool education, and there are not enough options in the community.”   

The Y chose this specific location because it is one of the areas known as a ‘childcare desert,’ meaning there are no affordable pre-school options for families living in this area. 43.1% of Horry County is considered a child care desert for children under five.

In addition, this program is preparing children for Kindergarten.

In the 2020/2021 school year, 75.2% of students in Horry County enrolled in Kindergarten were not demonstrating readiness. 

The preschool is currently a half-day program, but plans for a full-day preschool program are underway to begin in Fall 2023.

The preschool’s safe environment gives kids the perfect place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships plus cultivate fine and gross motor skills. Classes develop each child’s self-esteem and strong image of self-worth. In every class, educators encourage children to explore, ask questions and solve problems. 

Early childhood educators provide a warm and secure atmosphere with five areas of focus to help kids meet and exceed developmental milestones: learning, life skills, healthy habits, socialization and fine and gross motor skills. By the end of the program, children will be well-prepared to enter Kindergarten. 

Daily Activities include:

• Play 
• Arts & Creativity 
• Science & Discovery
• Mathematics 
• Fine & Motor Gross Activities 
• Language & Literacy 
• Social Studies 
• Emotional Health 
• Indoor & Outdoor Physical Fitness 

Enrollment for ages 2 – 5 is currently open for this program. YMCA offers financial assistance for all programs, including preschool.