The Meriden YMCA Infant and Toddler programs create a safe, nurturing environment for families and children to grow together. We enjoy accompanying parents through their journey and the developmental milestones during the growth and development period most crucial from infancy to toddlerhood. Our goal is to assist children in developing their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills while preparing for a sound educational future.
Meriden YMCA Martin Gaffey Child Care Center
66 Crown Street
Meriden, CT 06450
Contact: Mary-Jo Dipasquale
Phone: (203) 235-8906
Email: mdipasquale@meridenymca.org
About Our Program
- For 6 weeks to 36 months
- High quality nurturing programs
- Fun and learning in a safe environment
- TeachingStrategies® tadpoles® communication system to see your child’s daily activities and photos
- Infant formula, nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack included
- Care4Kids accepted
- Sliding fee based service for those who qualify
Meet Our Director
Mary-Jo Dipasquale, Child Care Director
Meriden YMCA Martin Gaffey Child Care Center and Little Panthers Preschool
I have been with the Y forty-one years. I started in college as a camp counselor at Mountain Mist Day Camp. After I graduated from Southern with my degree in early childhood education, I came back to the Y and have spent my career here. I’ve had many roles and worked with children at camp, in before and after school care and preschool. I now have former students bringing their children to our program and one of our board members was in my preschool program.
I love working with kids and helping them learn and grow. I also love when we can help their families. We get such joy at Christmas time connecting families to resources whether it is a holiday dinner from the Y or presents from the United Way Giving Tree. I truly feel like I was put on this earth to work with children.