Five preschoolers hold hands in a line as a teacher leads them across a sunlit wood floor by a glass wall

Highlands Elementary

ABOUT HIGHLANDS PRESCHOOL & PRE-K SUPPORT FOR SCHOOL SUCCESS

Our YMCA preschool programs at Highlands Elementary offers a variety of features to provide your child with a positive experience. Our educated staff lead students through a curriculum focused on kindergarten readiness skills and incorporates the YMCA Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. Nutritious snacks are provided daily. Fully licensed by Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The Y also offers before and after school care for elementary students who attend Highlands Elementary, making it a convenient option for families with multiple children.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

  • Ages: Pre-K: 3-5; Full-Day Preschool: 3-5
  • Days: Monday-Friday
  • Time: School Year Pre-K A.M. session 8-11 a.m.; P.M. session 12:15-3:10 p.m.; Before and After Care 7-8 a.m. and 3:15-6 p.m.; Full-Day YMCA Preschool: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • Fees: Fees vary by school year and program. Check registration form for pricing.

Half-day Pre-K enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open. Please download and submit a form to register. Half-day program participants must qualify through Shawnee Mission School District to register.

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PROGRAMS SIGN UP NOW

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Full-Day YMCA Preschool

Our full-day preschool at Highlands Elementary provides a safe, fully licensed environment where kids ages 3-5 learn through play and structured activities. Educated staff build kindergarten readiness skills while reinforcing YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Nutritious snacks are provided daily.

Ages: 3-5
Days: Monday through Friday
Time: A.M. Session 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

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School Year Pre-K

YMCA-supported Pre-K at Highlands Elementary complements Shawnee Mission School District programming with morning and afternoon session options for ages 3-5. Children practice early learning skills, routines, and social development in a nurturing classroom. Families can also add before and after-care to create a full day.

Ages: 3-5
Days: Monday through Friday
Times: A.M. session 8-11 a.m. | P.M. session 12:15-3:10 p.m.

Early childhood teacher works with toddlers shaping play dough around a low classroom table

Before and After Care

Before and after school care at Highlands Elementary helps families cover the full school day with dependable supervision and engaging activities. Kids build friendships, practice responsibility, and stay active through games and creative play. Morning and afternoon care options support working schedules and school-year routines.

Ages: 3-5
Days: Monday through Friday
Times: A.M. Session 7-8 a.m. | P.M. Session 3:15-6 p.m.

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Preschool Camp

Learning continues in the summer with Preschool Camp for ages 3-5. Weekly themes keep kids engaged through hands-on activities, movement, and creative play in small age-based groups. Camp emphasizes friendships, confidence, and the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

PARENT RESOURCES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED

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No School Days

Need care when school is out? Select YMCA sites offer No School Days during breaks, conference days, and other school closures.

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Become A Member!

Become a member today and discover everything the Kansas City YMCA has to offer, from childcare to group fitness and programs for all ages and stages of life.

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Emergency Information Packet

All participants must bring a completed Emergency Information Packet on the first day, including required waivers and licensing forms.

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Every gift to the Y stays right here in Kansas City, helping neighbors access swim lessons, safe spaces for kids, and programs that strengthen healthy living for all. When you give, you open the door for everyone to play, grow, and belong, no matter their circumstances.

Smiling boy in goggles swimming toward an instructor during a pool swim lesson
Teen mentor helping a younger student on a laptop in a colorful classroom
Large group of summer campers in orange shirts posing outdoors under a pavilion
Young soccer players in red jerseys give high fives to teammates on a field
Two girls laughing and playing under splashing water at an indoor aquatic play structure
Toddler girl pointing and smiling in a colorful YMCA playroom with another child
Young children in KC soccer jerseys chase a ball during a youth match