Programs

Overview

The Early Childhood Center program is designed around our most precious asset, our children. The Early Childhood Center’s learning environment is designed to make our children feel safe, nurtured, stimulated, welcomed, and happy.

Our approach to learning is interdisciplinary. Each child’s individual interests, developmental stage, and social and emotional needs shape the curriculum. The program incorporates all areas of a child’s development: physical, emotional, social and cognitive.

Historically, each classroom at the ECC is staffed by a head teacher and two assistant teachers or by two co-teachers and one assistant teacher. Language development and literacy, mathematical thinking, dramatic play, social skills, and artistic expression are essential components of the child’s experience at school. A visit into any classroom will find children reading books on their own or snuggled on a teacher’s lap. Children also visit the library regularly. Basic math concepts are introduced through cooking, block play, sorting and categorizing materials. Dramatic play is an essential part of every room. Children use symbolic play to try on a variety of roles and figure out their place in the world. Art activities and projects help tie together the many concepts children are learning and provide an outlet for creative expression. Forming a strong community gives the children the opportunity to communicate effectively, solve problems, and resolve conflicts. Jewish studies are integrated into all aspects of the program, with regular Shabbat and holiday celebrations. The children have frequent contact with the members of the clergy and consider the Synagogue to be their second home.

Weather permitting, part of each day is spent outdoors on the rooftop playground or terrace. These play spaces offer slides, climbing equipment, and lots of room to run and explore. An indoor playroom is available when the weather is inclement. In addition, children work with specialists for music, movement, library, gardening, arts and science.

The program includes three age groups: 2’s, 3’s and 4’s/5’s.

The program is a member of ISAAGNY (Independent Schools Admission Association of Greater New York) and ERB (Educational Records Bureau). The ECC is also accredited by JECEI (Jewish Early Childhood Education Initiative).