Children’s Services at
YWCA Ulster County
Empowering Young Minds from Infancy to Kindergarten
ABOUT US
Strong Starts for Bright Tomorrows
At the Early Childhood Learning Center of YWCA Ulster County, we are committed to providing exceptional early childhood experiences with a comprehensive school-readiness curriculum that prepares children and families for success. Our licensed childcare programs, approved by the state of New York, ensure a safe and nurturing environment for all children. Experience peace of mind knowing that your child is receiving top-quality care and education in a supportive setting. Our dedicated team of educators are passionate about fostering growth, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning.
Magic Circle School & Universal Pre-K
At Magic Circle School, we are a New York State-licensed childcare center offering high-quality care and early education for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Located in the heart of Uptown Kingston, we’re open Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
At Magic Circle, our certified teachers are passionate about inspiring a love of learning through play, structure, and creativity. In our safe and nurturing environment, children are empowered to:
- Build strong cognitive, emotional, and social foundations
- Explore through hands-on activities and guided discovery
- Thrive within age-appropriate classrooms designed for growth and fun
Join us on a joyful journey of curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning!
Infant Room (6 Weeks – 18 Months)
Our specialized infant room provides exceptional care for children aged 6 weeks to 18 months. We focus on:
- Attentive care in a safe, loving environment
- Activities that encourage self-awareness, social bonding, and creative expression
- Opportunities for sensory exploration, movement, and early communication
- Guided play that fosters curiosity and early problem-solving
Toddler Room (18 Months – 3 Years)
In our vibrant toddler room, children build confidence and curiosity through:
- Meaningful social interactions that support emotional growth and listening skills
- Engaging play that encourages language development and early communication
- Guided activities that promote problem-solving, negotiation, and conceptual thinking
- A safe, active environment that supports physical development and independence
Preschool (3 – 4 Years)
Our preschool program uses the dynamic Creative Curriculum to nurture growth through:
- Hands-on, experiential learning that builds real-world understanding
- Play-based activities that spark curiosity and cognitive development
- Daily opportunities to form friendships and practice emotional awareness
- Classroom centers designed to foster independence, creativity, and collaboration
Kindergarten Readiness Program
Our Kindergarten Readiness Program supports children turning four by December 1st of the school year, helping them build confidence and foundational skills for a smooth transition into kindergarten.
Key program features include:
- Integration with the Kingston City School District’s Universal Pre-K, ensuring alignment with district expectations
- Year-round programming, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, with extended aftercare available
- A nurturing, structured environment that encourages social, emotional, and academic growth
With experienced educators and a curriculum designed for future success, we prepare every child for their next big step!
Bridge to Build Art Education
Summer Program
Bridge to Build is the YWCA's summer pre-k arts program that immerses students in an arts-focused curriculum that increases confidence and prepares them to enter kindergarten. In addition to daily games and week-by-week projects, the goal of Bridge to Build is to increase each child’s self-esteem through play, cooperation, and explorations of complex ideas through artistic self-expression.
Details for summer 2025 coming soon!
what parents say
Testimonials
We feel so lucky that we were able to get our daughter into the infant daycare here. Everyone who works there - not just the teachers - greet her by name and show that they are happy to see her when we arrive... and my daughter loves being there! The teachers keep track of each baby's milestones and take the time to talk with parents about what they observe. Very helpful and supportive environment.
6 months ago
Very nice school good teachers. Great security so I feel the children are being well protected.
Kerry Williams
6 months ago
Great preK program. Our son is doing really well in it and enjoys hanging out with the other kids and likes the teachers.
Jane Faber
6 months ago
My daughter attends the Magic Circle school for Universal Pre-K. The staff are so wonderful. I never worry when I drop her off knowing that the staff treat each and every student like their own. I love the diversity of the school population as well.
Jane Faber
6 months ago
Enrollment and Contact Information
For enrollment inquiries or to join our waitlist, please contact us at:
- Email: comms@ywcaulstercounty.org
- Phone: (845) 338-6844 ext. 105
We welcome you to visit our facility at 209 Clinton Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401, to learn more about our programs and meet our dedicated staff.