New designs for YMCA’s KidZone, Kindergarten Club

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Whimsical windows and doors are just the start of the creative design features in the YMCA's new KidZone. | Photo courtesy North Suburban YMCA

Updated: February 27, 2012 8:10AM

Young children at the North Suburban YMCA have access to fun new play settings in the YMCA’s renovated KidZone and Kindergarten Club rooms. Both spaces have been updated with creative, child-centered designs, while also making the spaces more efficient and secure.

The KidZone, a complimentary babysitting service available to children of family members while their parents work out, dance, swim or participate in any other YMCA programs, has been relocated to a convenient location near the locker rooms on the YMCA’s lower level. With its eye-popping primary colors and whimsical tilted doorways, the KidZone reminds visitors of the world of Dr. Seuss or Pee-Wee’s Playhouse.

Multi-level windows to the exterior hallways allow children of all heights to peek out, while also enabling moms to discreetly check on their kids at play. Other improvements include all new flooring and furniture, as well as the addition of a self-contained bathroom with child-friendly fixtures.

The Kindergarten Club, located on the main floor near the swimming pool observation deck, has been updated with new brightly colored paint that matches the newly-installed handicapped accessible playground that adjoins the room, plus new lighting and furnishings. The classroom houses the YMCA’s licensed after-school program, which also includes a hot lunch and transportation from local schools for kindergarten age children, with extended hours available for working parents.

The KidZone and Kindergarten Club projects are two of many improvements under way as a result of the YMCA’s ongoing capital campaign. Additional projects include lobby renovations, locker room upgrades, security and sign improvements, and large-scale repairs to the building’s aged mechanical systems. As funds become available, the YMCA also plans to renovate its swimming pool and track areas with the addition of windows, lighting and other upgrades.

To support the YMCA’s capital campaign efforts, contact Lee Ann Johnson at ljohnson@nsymca.org, (847) 272-7250 Ext. 1225.