Learning Through Jewish Traditions
Based on a forward-thinking, constantly evolving—yet deeply rooted—educational philosophy, the Barbara & Jack Kay Early Childhood Learning Center focuses on welcoming children and their families into a quality educational experience based on Jewish values.
Children are encouraged to develop as individuals as well as members of the Jewish community. Spaces and environments are filled with intent; each is purposely designed to provoke wonder, curiosity, intellectual engagement, and creativity with endless possibilities.
Kids get essential opportunities at a young age to develop life skills, such as focusing, self-control, communication, and critical thinking. Even at the earliest age, they are viewed as competent, curious, capable, natural learners who are full of potential.
Teachers and children have ongoing interactions in a space where the curriculum combines children’s ideas, wonders, and interests with the faculty’s professional knowledge of child development.
Our Jewish Values
Tikun Olam | Repairing the World
Children learn that their actions—toward people, the environment, and their community—make a meaningful difference.
B’rit | Covenant
Relationships built on trust and care provide children with a strong sense of security and belonging.
B’Tzelem Elokim | Divine Image
Each child’s unique strengths and individuality are celebrated and nurtured.
Kedusha | Holiness
Intention and presence bring added meaning to daily activities and shared moments.
Masa | Journey
Learning emphasizes the process and experiences along the way, not just the outcome.
Hitorerut | Awakening
A sense of wonder is fostered, enriching relationships and elevating everyday learning.
Drash | Interpretation
Children are encouraged to ask, explore, and develop their own understanding through dialogue and reflection.
Core Elements of Our Center
Children as Constructivist Learners
- The school’s curriculum emerges from child development combined with the children’s interests.
- Children build their own learning as opposed to teachers dictating facts.
- Children engage in project-based learning, which enables them to integrate knowledge and skills in meaningful ways, incorporating math, literacy, science, social studies, and physical education.
- A project is an in-depth investigation of a worthwhile topic. The teachers’ focus is to guide kids to ask questions and, therefore, children become more interested in what they are learning.
- Cognitive, social, emotional, language, literacy and physical skills are developed through the learning experiences that children participate in every day.
Families as Engaged Partners
- Family engagement is essential to building a quality school community. We actively incorporate parents’ perspectives into how we think about teaching and learning.
- Families have opportunities to joyfully celebrate Jewish life with their children.
- Communication about each child’s development is ongoing, relevant, and supportive.
- Families are involved in adult learning to support their own and each other’s parenting and Jewish journeys.
Learning Environments
- Children and families are represented in the classroom environment, creating a sense of belonging.
- Space is flexible and materials open-ended, stimulating exploration and inquiry.
- Children have freedom to interact with the environment and manipulate materials.
- Aspects of the natural world are present in the classroom to engage the senses.
- Attention is given to indoor and outdoor classrooms and common spaces to create community, build connections, and allow opportunities for Jewish living
Directors as Visionaries
- Inspired by Jewish values, directors work with the parents, teachers, and lay leaders to create an environment that cultivates a diverse and vibrant community.
- Our directors create professional learning opportunities for the faculty. They arrange consistent and adequate time for the teachers to learn, grow, and reflect with their colleagues, families, students, and community.
- Directors also ensure the goals of the early childhood center are aligned with the mission and goals of the JCC. The JCC staff and lay leaders integrate with the early childhood center.
- Our leadership team cultivates professional and lay leadership to promote a sustainable early childhood learning center.
Teachers as Professionals
- Early Childhood Educators are considered by the JCC and view themselves as professionals.
- Teachers engage in deep meaningful learning experiences, collaboration, and mentoring with all members of the community.
- Our faculty is fluent in the standards of excellence set by the state and accrediting agencies, and has a passion to go beyond these definitions.
CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health)
- Based on a foundation of Jewish values, Discover CATCH Early Childhood nurtures a love of physical activity in children and encourages them to develop lifelong healthy eating habits.
- The physical education component incorporates activities that develop flexibility, strength, muscular, and cardiovascular endurance.
- Featured activities and games develop fundamental motor skills and rhythm.
- A “no elimination” philosophy ensures all children are always moving while having fun.
Israeli Engagement
- Teachers have an authentic relationship with Israel, allowing children to create a strong bond with the “Israel of the imagination.”
- Different aspects of Israel are experienced daily to seamlessly create powerful images and representations in the minds and hearts of our children.
- Israeli music, dance, customs, foods, and language come alive at the school.
