THE ARK CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
PLAY TOGETHER LEARN TOGETHER GROW TOGETHER
The ARK Child Development Center located at the William K. Nitterhouse YMCA Family Program Center is a state-of-the-art, early education facility for preschool children ages 3-5. At the ARK, students enjoy access to age-appropriate outdoor playground equipment, classrooms integrated with technology, and three indoor movement studios.
The ARK is a full-day early learning center focusing on the education, socialization, skill development, and spiritual development of every child. Following a theme-based curriculum modeled after the Chambersburg Area School District Kindergarten Readiness Program and in accordance with PA Common Core Standards, classes offer pre-kindergarten instruction, swim lessons, field trips, rest time, science experiments, dance and rhythm activities, story time, arts and crafts, and much, much more.
Our teachers plan their lessons around goals in six major areas of development:
- Cognitive Development - Advancement in early literacy, pre-writing, science and math skills, problem solving, following directions, and comprehension
- Spiritual Development - Promoting values and character development through stories, songs, and prayer
- Physical Development - Gross and fine motor skills, rhythm and movement, and health and safety
- Health and Well-Being - Healthy choices, safety, nutrition, and self-care
- Creative Expression - Appreciation for the arts, self-expression, and creativity
- Social Development - Creative play, interaction, self-reliance, and coping skills
Classroom Activities
Swim Lessons
Rhythm and Dance
Creative Play
Arts and Crafts
Science Experiments
Academic Skill Building
Story Time
Organic Garden and
Sustainability Education
Field Trips
Two Snacks Provided Daily
Afternoon Rest Time
Enrollment
The ARK uses a wait list to fill openings as they become available. Contact Miss Cook early to be placed on the wait list.
Contact Information
Melanie Cook
Director of Early Childhood Services
The ARK Child Development Center
756 South Coldbrook Avenue
Chambersburg, PA 17201
717-446-0533 | mcook@chbgy.org
Our Staff
We make employing trained, experienced, talented, and caring staff members our priority. We provide ongoing professional development to our staff and encourage lifelong learning. The ARK maintains a professional educational setting and sets high standards and expectations for all teachers.
Hours of Operation
Hours: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Days: Monday - Friday, year round
The ARK is closed for the following holidays:
Memorial Day | Labor Day | Thanksgiving Day
The ARK is also closed the week of the Fourth of July (M-F) and from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day.