YDC Gets a Makeover | Video

Retha Colclasure | 11/22/2012

The YMCA daycare center in Bismarck is getting a much needed facelift and the renovation is improving the care the center provides. These three-year-olds might not care much about what kind of surface they`re standing on when they`re painting, or doing any other messy craft.

But the staff still does.

"The floors are cleaner. Vinyl is easier to clean. It`s easier for the housekeeping staff," said director Carmen Traeholt.

The center has been open since 2001 and until this summer, had the original carpeting and flooring.

"It was time for a change and an update. We`re so excited. It`s made a difference in the YDC, the families are excited about it," Traeholt said.

Now, many of the rooms are half-carpet, half-vinyl. Providing a warm half of the room to play in, and an easy to clean half for projects.

"We pride ourselves on quality care. Part of our quality care is our physical environment at the YDC," Traeholt said.

The carpeting in the lobby has been torn out and is being replaced with tile, just one more thing that the housekeeping staff and the parents appreciate.

"Much easier upkeep. The muddy tracks into the playground are easy for us to sweep up," Traeholt said.

And the classroom teachers are getting in on the makeover, painting their rooms bright colors.

"It looks cleaner. The colors in the rooms are a lot brighter. Looks updated," Traeholt said.

Providing a much warmer environment for the 284 kids who spend their days at this center.

The renovation project started in September, and should be finished by the end of the month. Crews are having to do most of the work now in the evenings and on the weekends.

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