Research conducted by the Minneapolis-based SEARCH Institute has found 40 key factors called 'developmental assets' that form the framework for positive child and adolescent development. This approach provides children and youth with positive experiences, support and opportunities they need to thrive and to grow into strong, caring and contributing community members.

Twenty-five percent of YMCA Child Care centres are located in inner-city neighbourhoods. We help these communities by supporting the children and families who live there, providing a safe and nurturing environment. In partnership with the KidSafe Project Society, we provide programs during school breaks for the most vulnerable students at two Vancouver schools.

Caring for children under the age of five, these programs meet needs through creating opportunities for learning and by supporting physical, emotional and intellectual growth in a safe and caring environment.

We support families through a variety of programs and activities, including parent drop-ins, educational opportunities and resource lending. We recognize the value of play and its long-term benefits, help parents find and develop the resources they need and create positive effects on communities throughout Greater Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.

With funds from the YMCA's Partners With Youth campaign and our child-directed fundraising program Kids Helping Kids, we are able to provide short-term assistance with child care fees for families in need.

This program, integrated throughout YMCA Child Care centres, focuses on providing learning and leadership development through a variety of literacy-based activities, including peer mentoring, creative writing, cooking, dramatic arts and more.

Find out more about Raising Kids Who Read: download the brochure (pdf, 1.9MB) or visit YMCA Canada.
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Starting in September 2004 and to mark Literacy Month, a monthly reading tip sheet will be posted to help parents and care givers make reading a priority and fun for kids. Read on!

Tip #1: Making Time for Reading Together
Tip #2: Read-Aloud Tips
Tip #3: A Day Full of Print
Tip #4: Reading Old Favourites
Tip #5: Boys and Books
Tip #6: Just the Facts
Tip #7: Let's Travel through Books
Tip #8: Rhyme Time
Tip #9: The Language of Feelings
Tip #10: Reading about Real People
Tip #11: Reading About Hard Topics
Tip #12: Picture This

These before- and after-school programs provide children aged five to twelve with a place to be with their friends, create and contribute. Based on the belief that children and youth deserve a caring and fun environment, these programs offer a range of activities geared to leadership development.