In a sign of continued growth for the organization, the Boothbay Region YMCA has named Amy Henderson its new director of child enrichment & family services. Henderson will be directing the childcare program, coordinating staff schedules, and handling the concerns of the children. Henderson has been directing the First Steps child care center in East Falmouth, Massachusetts for the past decade. 

While the position has an administrative component, it’s the human touch Henderson brings that sets her apart, said YMCA Director Andy Hamblett.

“During the interview process we talked about real and difficult situations with a child,” said Hamblett. “We had a really strong feeling about Amy. She’s already so comfortable with the staff and the kids. We want someone to be part of the family.” 

Henderson will also assist with the popular Montessori School program for pre-k and kindergartners. Now in its third year, the school has a waiting list for new students and has raised the bar for what a childcare center can be, said Hamblett. While the position isn’t new, the emphasis on the family component is, as the YMCA evolves into a whole-community option.

The Montessori School will also be getting a major addition this fall by way of a new playground. According to Facilities Director Rose Mooney, the existing collection of cedar play features will be replaced with a natural, creative learning space. The guiding philosophy is that children learn through independent play and a teacher’s role is to foster the natural creativity, curiosity and adventurous nature in all children. In addition to play spaces, the playground will feature beds for gardening and a picnic area so that the teachers can use the gardens as an outdoor classroom, said Mooney.

All being said, the chance to join the team at the YMCA was too good to pass up for Henderson.

“I’m so happy to be coming back to Maine,” the Guilford native said. “It’s the right move and the job I’ve always wanted.”