At The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah Early Childhood Center, we provide each student with many academic challenges in a socially stimulating environment. We limit the size of our classes to provide individualized care and attention. Although classes consist of children of similar ages, independent “work time” allows students to interact with children in other age groups as well. Our school is designed to educate the total child. We practice the philosophy that “play is work.” At “work time” each day, students are encouraged to select from a number of independent activities conducted at learning centers in their classrooms and in the preschool pod. During this time, teachers interact with the children, working with them and asking open-ended questions to extend their ideas. Children are encouraged to complete each venture they select at their own pace. A plan sheet is sent home with the child each day and serves as the basis for effective parent/child communication. At circle time- students also take part in group activities planned by their teachers. In this way, students have the opportunity to participate in dynamic age appropriate activities while developing prescribed competencies that will help them gain the confidence and comfort they need to explore and learn new skills.