YMCA Early Learning Academy at Coastal Carolina University

The YMCA Early Learning Academy at Coastal Carolina University is the result of a powerful partnership with a shared vision: to expand access to high-quality, affordable early childhood education and help every child shine.

Formerly the CCU Early Childhood Development and Literacy Center, the Academy is now operated by the YMCA of Coastal Carolina. This transition reflects a collaborative commitment between the YMCA and CCU’s Spadoni College of Education and Social Sciences to enhance early childhood services on campus and throughout the region.

Our Mission in Action

Together, we’re creating a model for early learning that serves children, families, and future educators through:

  • Hands-on experience for future teachers: CCU students in early childhood education gain invaluable, real-world training through student teaching, curriculum development, and classroom engagement right on campus.
  • A data-informed approach to child development: United Way of Horry County tracks developmental milestones and kindergarten readiness to ensure every child gets the strong foundation they need.
  • Affordability and flexibility for families: The center accepts ABC vouchers and offers a sliding scale for tuition based on income and family size. Through a partnership with S.C. First Steps, we also provide free First Steps 4K for eligible children.
  • Room to grow: Licensed to serve up to 110 children, the center offers space for future expansion, with long-term plans to extend the program across Horry County and the Grand Strand.

Enrollment is open!
The YMCA Early Learning Academy accepts ABC vouchers, offers income-based pricing, and now partners with SC First Steps to offer free 4K through an application process.

The YMCA Early Learning Academy at CCU is more than a child care center it’s a cornerstone of our community’s future.

Ready to learn more or schedule a tour?

If you’re interested in enrolling your child, we’d love to meet you! 
Contact Brandi Duncan, YMCA Early Learning Academy Director

📞 843-349-2429 | ✉️ [email protected]

Updated Hours for January 23 - 25, 2025

 

Due to the winter snow and potential weather conditions overnight, in order to keep our members and staff safe, all YMCA of Coastal Carolina center locations will close remained closed on Thursday and open limited hours on Friday. Saturday will resume normal operating hours.

  • Thursday, January 23, 2025: All YMCA of Coastal Carolina centers will remain closed. (This includes 24 hour access at the Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA.) 
  • Friday, January 24, 2025: Centers will be open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.  Please note services may be limited during this time.
  • Saturday, January 25, 2025: All YMCA of Coastal Carolina centers will resume normal operating hours.

Please stay safe and check our website for updates.Thank you for understanding as we weather the winter storm. We hope you and your family stay safe and warm!

 

Updated Hours Today

We hope you and your family stayed safe during the storm. We will resume normal operations at all three YMCA of Coastal Carolina center locations at 11 a.m. today. 

  • Thursday, August 31: All three center locations will reopen at 11 a.m.
  • Friday, September 1: All three center locations will be open during normal hours.
 24-hour access will be unavailable to Tidelands Health Georgetown Family YMCA during the times the center is closed but will resume as normal tonight.