January 04, 2025
Local News

Dixon YMCA daycare open for business; limited to 20 kids of essential workers only

By BY CODY
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Childcare provider McKinzie Battles sprays shaving cream on a desk at the Dixon YMCA daycare. The kids love rubbing and playing in the stuff, and it gives the table a good cleaning. (Alex T)

DIXON – The Dixon Family YMCA has a emergency license to operate a day care facility, most of which are closed due to Illinois' shelter in place order.

The program, which can serve a maximum of 20 children, is for those of essential staff who must work during shelter-in-place. It runs from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Y, 110 North Galena Ave.

No more than 10 people can be in a room at one time, "to ensure social distancing to minimize exposure to the coronavirus," Executive Director Andrew McFarlane said.

Children are assigned to groups, and have to remain in those same groups for the entirety of their participation in the program, Youth Development Director Heather Grobe said. They are given daily wellness quick checks upon arrival; their temperatures are taken and they are checking for any symptoms of illness.

"The program is running well," Grobe said. "Adapting to smaller group sizes has been an adjustment for our teachers. It has given time to connect with those students attending, and to be a reassuring team during this uncertain time."

Teachers have taken the kids on walks, drawn with sidewalk chalk, engaged in arts and crafts, board games, helped with homework, made hearts for the Y's windows, and colored pictures. Meals are served if children are interested, but most come with their own lunch, Grobe said.

It served 16 children last week, some of whom already were enrolled in the existing daycare setup, but nearly half are new. Once it reaches the maximum of 20, a waiting list will be established.

The program is a blessing for Hilary Thomas, 36, of Dixon. She and her husband are essential workers, and their three kids – Caleb, 5; Adeline, 6; and Cole, 8 – have enjoyed the few hours they spend at the YMCA on days they need to be watched, she said.

"It would definitely impact our ability to go to work and serve our community if we didn't have anyone who could provide day care for our children," Thomas said. "The kids love going there. They have a great time when they're there.

"We wake them up in the morning and I'll tell them, 'Hey, we get to go to the Y,' and they're like 'Yes!'"

Normal childcare services will begin once the shelter in place order expires, and previous enrolled children will be back, McFarlane said.

Find Dixon Family YMCA on Facebook, go to dixonymca.org or call 815-288-9622 for more information.