Kids Quest

Strengthening families with affordable, supportive programs.

Kids Quest programs provide before and after school care, as well as summer camp, in several Topeka Public Schools grade school locations. For more information about our programs please call the Youth Services Director at (785)233-1750.

Fun, Creative, Supportive

YWCA Northeast Kansas is on a mission to provide high-quality programming for school-aged children.

In 2022, the Kids Quest Before and After School Program implemented the Flying Classroom curriculum, a STEM+ curriculum of hands-on research and experiments that has students soaring to new heights!

"I love science day!"

We look forward to having your child join us! Students are provided an afternoon snack, homework assistance, and opportunities to build STEM+ skills.

Enrollment ↘

  • Locations:

    • Jardine Elementary

    • McCarter Elementary

    • McEachron Elementary

    • Meadows Elementary

    • Whitson Elementary.

  • Hours

    BEFORE CARE

    Mon-Thur: 7:00 am – 8:10 am

    Fri: 7:00 am – 9:10 am

    AFTER CARE

    Mon – Fri: 3:40 pm – 5:30 pm, snack and milk provided

    *View below for scheduling details

  • Rates

    Both AM and PM: $75 / week per child

    AM only: $40 / week per child

    PM only: $40 / week per child

    *Billed Weekly

  • Enrollment Fee

    $20 per child

    $30 per family (2 or more children)

    The 2023-2024 program application and fees must be turned in at our office in downtown Topeka, 225 SW 12th St. Click below to print application materials, or pick up a packet at our main office during business hours.

View Enrollment Application

Program Information

What can my child and I expect during the school year?

Homework Assistance

Each day students in Kids Quest have designated time for academic work. Students receive guidance for homework assignments while those without school work are involved in enrichment activities.

Child & Adult Care Food Program and After School Snacks

Kids Quest also offers a snack each day to students in the after school program. We strive to provide students with a healthy option including fresh fruits and vegetables. All snacks adhere to the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

Each Kids Quest before and after school program is dedicated to incorporating STEM+ into their weekly activities. Beginning in 2022, Kids Quest implemented the Flying Classroom curriculum, which is a hands-on STEM+ curriculum that incorporates research, experimentation, and discovery.

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)

Each Kids Quest before and after school program is licensed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. All programs have annual licensing compliance reviews to ensure the children are safe and properly cared for in a healthy environment. Information on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment licensing for School Age Programs.

Schedule Details: Kids Quest follows the USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Schedule

For closings and schedule changes, please consult the USD 501 school calendar and inclement weather announcements. When USD 501 schools are closed, Kids Quest before and after care are closed. For delayed starts, before care is closed only. For early release days, after care is closed only.

Looking for Kids Quest Summer Camp? Click here.

YWCA Northeast Kansas is a KEEP Certified Provider ↘

The Kansas Educational Enrichment Program provides $1,000 per eligible student to spend on approved educational goods and services. Click here to see if you qualify.