Overview/Our Approach

Akiba-Schechter Pre-School and Kindergarten is a NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accredited program open to all children. We are a community school that creates a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children to learn through active exploration and play. Children engage in activities that include dramatic play, movement, art, sensory experiences, music, library, and yoga. Through secure relationships with teachers and friends, children develop a sense of independence and autonomy, as well as an ability to understand the needs and concerns of others.

At Akiba-Schechter, we believe that youth is precious and that growth cannot be rushed. The developmental stages children must go through in order to be happy and successful take time and energy on the part of the teacher and the student. No two children are alike; each has individual strengths and weaknesses. We believe that each child is unique and deserves to be cherished. Children’s similarities and differences need to be celebrated. Our teachers work hard to identify each child’s needs and help him or her integrate into the group.

Cheerful music, colorfully displayed artwork, and children busy at play are some of what make our Pre-School and Kindergarten look and feel like a great place to be! Teachers prepare the environment for children to learn through active exploration and interaction with adults, other children, and materials. Children select many of their own activities, including blocks, dramatic play, art, sand and water tables, card and board games, music and movement, group games, dictating and writing stories, songs, group meeting time, and outdoor play.

We believe children learn best when the curriculum is thematic and child-centered, which, ideally, is child-initiated. Our teachers are always prepared with rich plans for each day of school, but they are also ready to put those plans aside when the children’s ideas lead in a different direction. While the final product is always nice to have, we most embrace the process of creating. Storytelling and celebrating the Jewish holidays add a warm awareness and joy of the Jewish tradition. Regular visual documentation of their activities helps children reflect on the fun and growth they experience.