Jackson and Tatum

Tatum and Jackson started coming to the Newton YMCA Kid Zone in February 2026. It was the first child care program the sibling duo had ever attended. 

The boys experienced a lot of fear during the first two weeks. 

They were missing mom, and there were extra-long hugs at drop off. 

Mom shared that she too, was a little afraid during the first two weeks because she wanted a place her children would love coming to. 

The Newton Y’s caring and kind staff in the Kid Zone continued to encourage Mom to keep bringing them consistently, knowing it would help them overcome the challenge. 

Every superhero story starts by overcoming fear. 

Today, Tatum and Jackson come five days a week and thrive, sometimes even wearing capes and masks. They’ve found their superpower!

Mom says Tatum tells others that he is going to "my gym to workout." They ask to come and are always excited before and after their visits. 

Tatum and Jackson love to make new friends every day. They love pretend play with dinosaurs and cars and take part in sensory activities with building blocks and Legos. They also enjoy dancing to music and learning games like Hot Potato and Simon Says. 

More importantly, they feel a sense of belonging from staff and their friends in the Kid Zone. They bring a bright smile to everyone around them when they visit.