Meriden YMCA

The Meriden YMCA Little Rascals program serves the community by providing proven, safe, quality supervision, outside the home for all Meriden children who are three, four, and five years old.

Programs include theme-based centers, kindergarten readiness, checklists, computers, arts and crafts, music and movement, math and manipulatives, sensory sand and water as well as, dramatic play, block play, science and cooking, library and physical activities including gym skills.

The program and staff have created a comfortable, secure environment that allows each child to develop his/her self esteem, sense of belonging, and feeling of accomplishment offering children choices in their daily activities and learning. We are conveniently located off East Main Street at 43 Swain Avenue.

The safety of our members, participants, and staff is our highest priority. There are always a minimum of two staff members on-site who are certified in First Aid, CPR, and Administration of Medication. 

Please contact Heather Volpe at (203) 630-0039 or hvolpe@meridenymca.org for more information.

  • Schedule: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
  • Sibling discounts
  • Conveniently located

Parents & Children Love Little Rascals!

5 Star Reviews

Charaf Nadifi 

About five years ago, my first son attended Meriden YMCA Little Rascals while he was dealing with health challenges. The care and compassion shown to him were extraordinary. The staff went as far as dedicating additional support to ensure he was safe, comfortable, and included. One staff member in particular went far beyond what was expected, and I will never forget that.

From 2021 until today, every single staff member has played a meaningful role in my children’s lives. This daycare isn’t just a place for supervision—it’s a place of genuine care, patience, and professionalism. It is truly top-notch.

I now have three children. Two are still attending, and each of them carries a piece of their story shaped by the love and dedication of this team. I am deeply grateful to everyone at Little Rascals for what you’ve done for my family.

Thank you all.


Kiara Reyes

We have had such a wonderful experience with this daycare. Both of my sons have attended, and even though one has moved on to kindergarten, my younger son is still there — that alone says a lot about how much we trust and love this place.

The teachers truly care about the kids and go above and beyond every single day. They make learning fun, set up special projects, and always make holidays and special occasions feel exciting and memorable for the children. You can tell they genuinely love what they do.

Communication is another huge plus. We are always kept informed about what’s going on, and if anything happens during the day, they let us know right away, which gives us so much peace of mind.

The director, Heather, and her entire team are absolutely amazing. They are understanding, supportive, and willing to work with families when things come up. As a parent, that means everything.

We are incredibly grateful for the care, love, and dedication they show our kids. I highly recommend this daycare to any parent looking for a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for their child.


Ashley Mariah

My son attends this daycare and I couldn’t be happier with this daycare! The staff’s main focus is always the kids health, safety, and overall well-being, which gives us so much peace of mind as parents. They do an amazing job creating an educational environment where the kids are constantly learning, while also making sure it’s fun, engaging, and safe. The director Heather, she is truly amazing. She’s always approachable, takes the time to listen to any concerns, and makes sure every child is well cared for and in great hands. It’s clear how much she and the entire staff genuinely care about the kids.


Kaitlyn W

My kids have been going here for 4 years, the daycare is always clean and the staff is amazing my kids love all the teachers so much and they really go above and beyond for the kids in their care.


Tiara Giller

We absolutely love my son’s daycare. His teachers are incredibly caring, patient, and always so pleasant to interact with. From day one, the environment has felt very family-oriented and welcoming, which has made such a difference for us.

As a first-time parent, leaving your child in someone else’s care can be nerve-wracking, but this daycare truly puts my mind at ease. I feel completely comfortable and confident knowing my son is safe, supported, and genuinely cared for while he’s there.

My son is autistic, and the staff has been amazing with him. They are understanding, attentive, and go above and beyond to support his individual needs and help him thrive. It means the world to see how much effort and compassion they put into helping him succeed.

I’m so grateful to have found a daycare that feels like an extension of our family. I highly recommend them to any parent looking for a nurturing, supportive, and loving environment for their child.


More Testimonials 

"My son Aceyon has been in the Little Rascals program for 15 months. I heard about the program from my sister's goddaughter who works there. I like that my son is able to play with kids his size and learn and grow. I really like the communication too. It is a great program! If a friend asked me about it I would tell them it will help your child and will help you as a parent. He has learned a lot. It is a great place and I definitely recommend it." - Toneisha Johnson

 “I love it there! My daughter is always happy to go to daycare!”

“It is a safe, happy, best possible place for my daughter. She started there at three months old. She is around people who treat her like family.” - Hillary 

"It is fantastic! My children are so well cared for. I love the family aspect of it.  The staff treat my children as if they were their own." - Amanda  See video and read more of Amanda's story

To learn more about our program:

Parent Handbook

Storm Closing Policy

Photo Album

Videos