Welcome to Our Community

The Germantown Jewish Centre Early Childhood Program provides a nurturing, developmentally appropriate educational experience for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Our program is rooted in Jewish values and traditions while welcoming families of all backgrounds, creating a diverse and inclusive community of learners.

Since 1975, our early childhood program has served families in the greater Philadelphia area, dedicated to the belief that children learn through active exploration and play. We create a supportive environment where each child is valued as an individual and encouraged to develop at their own pace.

Our Philosophy

At the Germantown Jewish Centre Early Childhood Program, we believe that:

  • Children learn best when actively engaged with their environment
  • Play is the primary vehicle through which children develop social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills
  • Each child develops at their own pace and has unique strengths and needs
  • Children thrive in an environment where they feel safe, loved, and respected
  • Jewish traditions and values provide a strong foundation for ethical development
  • Partnerships between families and educators create the best outcomes for children

Our Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed to meet the developmental needs of young children while introducing them to Jewish culture, traditions, and values. We draw inspiration from Reggio Emilia and Bank Street approaches, viewing children as capable, curious learners who construct knowledge through exploration and discovery.

The daily schedule includes a balance of:

  • Free play and guided activities
  • Individual and group experiences
  • Quiet and active periods
  • Indoor and outdoor exploration

Children engage with developmentally appropriate materials that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and discovery. Our classroom environment is carefully prepared to promote independence and include materials that reflect Jewish holidays, traditions, and values throughout the year.

Programs Offered

Our Early Childhood Program offers several options to meet the needs of diverse families:

Toddler Program (18 months - 2 years)

Our toddler program focuses on creating a nurturing environment where our youngest students feel safe to explore. The curriculum emphasizes language development, sensory experiences, and emerging social skills. With low teacher-to-child ratios, toddlers receive individual attention as they navigate this important developmental stage.

Preschool Programs (3-4 years)

Our preschool program builds on the foundation of our toddler program, offering more structured learning opportunities while maintaining a play-based approach. Children develop early literacy and numeracy skills through hands-on activities, explore science and nature, and participate in creative arts experiences. Jewish concepts and traditions are woven into the curriculum through stories, songs, and celebrations.

Pre-Kindergarten (4-5 years)

Our pre-kindergarten program prepares children for a successful transition to kindergarten. Extended project work allows children to explore topics in depth, while continued focus on social and emotional development prepares them for the elementary school years. Hebrew language exposure is increased through games, songs, and daily interactions.

Enrichment Activities

In addition to our core curriculum, we offer various enrichment activities:

  • Weekly music classes with a specialist
  • Movement and physical education
  • Gardening and nature exploration
  • Art experiences with various media
  • Weekly Shabbat celebrations
  • Library visits and literacy activities
  • Jewish holiday programming and celebrations

Our Jewish Identity

As part of the Germantown Jewish Centre, our Early Childhood Program integrates Jewish values, traditions, and Hebrew language into daily life in age-appropriate ways. Children experience Jewish traditions through:

  • Weekly Shabbat celebrations with candle lighting, blessings, and challah
  • Preparation for and celebration of Jewish holidays throughout the year
  • Blessings before snacks and meals
  • Introduction to Hebrew vocabulary through songs, games, and daily use
  • Teaching of Jewish values such as tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and derech eretz (respectful behavior)

We welcome families of all Jewish backgrounds and denominations, as well as interfaith families. Our goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment where all children and families can explore Jewish traditions and values in meaningful ways.

Parent Involvement

We believe that parents are children's first and most important teachers. We encourage parent involvement through:

  • Regular communication through daily updates, newsletters, and parent-teacher conferences
  • Parent education workshops on child development and parenting topics
  • Family events throughout the year, including Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations
  • Opportunities to share family traditions and customs with the classroom
  • Parent volunteering in the classroom, on field trips, or with special projects
  • Parent Committee that helps plan events and provide feedback on program initiatives

Our Staff

Our dedicated team of early childhood educators brings years of experience and a deep commitment to nurturing young children. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and all staff participate in ongoing professional development.

Our teachers are skilled at creating warm, supportive classroom environments where children feel comfortable taking risks as they learn. They observe each child carefully to understand individual needs and interests, then design curriculum that is responsive and engaging.