For 2026, YMCA plans expansion of infant and toddler care

In 2026, the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg will take a decisive step toward solving one of our city’s most pressing challenges: the lack of quality early childhood education for our youngest learners. Our biggest and most impactful initiative for the coming year is the expansion of infant and toddler care at our preschools, ensuring that families have access to high-quality programs starting at birth.

Why does this matter? Because the first three years of life are the most critical for brain development. Yet, in St. Petersburg, many families struggle to find affordable, high-quality care for infants and toddlers. This gap affects children, parents, employers, and the entire community. When families can’t access quality childcare, parents leave the workforce, businesses lose talent, and children miss out on the foundational skills that set the stage for lifelong success.

Nicci Bucher

Our 2026 goal: By early next year, we will open new infant and toddler classrooms at our Speer YMCA Preschool Academy in South St. Pete, complementing the preschool programs already offered there, and supplementing the infant and toddler care that exists at the Lealman YMCA Preschool Academy. This expansion will allow us to serve dozens more families with care that meets the highest standards: experienced teachers, low ratios, stimulating environments and strong family engagement.

Why It’s a Game-Changer: This initiative adds classrooms and care for our youngest learners, and activates a ripple effect of positive outcomes:

School Readiness: Children will develop cognitive, social, and emotional skills that prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.

Family Stability: Parents can work, reducing stress, and strengthening household stability.

Economic Impact: Employers benefit from a reliable workforce, and the community gains long-term savings through reduced remedial education, healthcare, and justice system costs. Some economists estimate that every dollar invested in early childhood education yields a high return, often more than $7 for every $1 spent.

Future Workforce: We’re building a pipeline of skilled, healthy citizens who will contribute to St. Petersburg’s prosperity for generations.

Catalyzing Change Together: We can’t do this alone. To make this vision a reality, we need partners, such as businesses, civic leaders, and community members, who believe in the power of early education. Together, we can ensure that every child in St. Petersburg starts strong and stays strong.

Nicci Bucher is President & CEO, YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.