Expert content provided by Owensboro Family YMCA.
A lot of moms are ready to get get back to their pre-pregnancy body after having their baby. But working out was a lot simpler before having a baby. Post-baby, mom has to find someone to watch their little one while she runs to the gym, taking into consideration feeding and napping schedules, not to mention the mom guilt of being away from your child.
The Owensboro Family YMCA has the perfect solution to all of these problems — Wee Care! Moms can exercise with peace of mind with Wee Care, a free service to all YMCA members, which offers fun and safe activities for children while you use the amenities of the YMCA. While mom is in the building, taking advantage of the gym or fitness classes, Wee Care is available for children 6 weeks to 10 years old for up to two hours.
Liz Young has worked in Y Wee Care for 16 years. “My favorite part about my job is seeing the impact that a nurturing, mentally stimulating environment can have on babies and children,” Liz said. “I also love the diversity of the families who use our program. The opportunity to serve these families is so rewarding.”
Jenni Long, who has worked in Y Wee Care for almost two years, uses the service herself. “As a mom, I am happy knowing that there is a service available where I can leave my kids in the capable hands of the Wee Care staff while I work out,” Jenni said.
According to Liz, the parents who use the service are able to spend much-needed time on themselves, whether to work out or just to have some time to relax, while their children are socializing and enjoying dramatic play. They offer toys and activities that encourage creativity, and staff who loves working with kids.
“Many of our moms, specifically, have remarked on how nice it is to know their children can have fun in a safe environment while they work out and have a hot shower to start the day, and how they can spend a few minutes to focus on themselves so they can care even better for their little ones,” Liz said. “One parent recently told us, ‘You guys are Owensboro’s best kept secret!’”
Wee Care is offered at both the YMCA Family and Athenian Branches:
Family Branch
Monday-Friday 8 am – 12 pm and 4 – 8 pm
Saturdays 8 – 11 am
Athenian Branch
Mondays & Wednesdays 8:30 am – 12:45 pm and 4 – 8 pm
Tuesdays & Thursdays 8 am – 11 am and 4 pm – 8 pm
Fridays 8 – 11 am
Saturdays 8 – 11 am