Early Childhood Education

Kathy Kaberon & Fran Zimmerman, Co-Directors of Early Childhood

By integrating Torah, Hebrew, Jewish values,traditions, and holiday observance, Beth Emet's early childhood programs lay the joyful foundation for building a positive Jewish identity. Our programs are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Drop In. This is a non-structured weekly program for newborn to age 3. While the children play, parents share and support each other on a wide range of parenting and religious issues. 

Bonim (Builders). This weekly program for ages 18-30 months, accompanied by a parent, includes art, singing, free play and familiarization with the Jewish holidays. 

Gan Yom Rishon.  This Sunday morning class for children and parents offers exciting activities to familiarize families with the synagogue, Shabbat, and a variety of holiday celebrations.  This class is for children who are enrolled in a secular early childhood program.  It is for children ages 3 -5.

K'ton-ton(Little Ones).  This program begins as a weekly parent/toddler class for children age 2-21/2,  and transitions to a children-only two day/week class for the second semester. This combination parent/toddler and separation class will use playtime, story, music, art and snack as vehicles to encourage socialization in a small group.

Kadima (Forward). This transitional nursery school class for children age 2-1/2 to 3 meets twice a week. It is the first separation experience for most children. Emphasis is on socialization in a small group setting without a parent. Activities include an extended playtime, art, singing, stories and, of course, snack. 

Madregot (Steps). This program for age 3 meets three times a week. The curriculum focuses on the child: his/her body, feelings and five senses and extends to the family. Judaism is integrated during the entire year as Hebrew, holidays, values and customs are introduced.  Mondays (beginning in January) and Wednesdays (all year) are extended days.  Children bring lunch and participate in enrichment programs of music and creative movement.

G'Dolim (Big Ones). This program for age 4 meets five days a week. Children continue in their exploration of themselves. In addition to viewing themselves as part of a family, they are introduced to the community as well as the world around them. Problem solving with peers is emphasized as children's social competencies continue to develop. A positive Jewish identity continues to be strengthened by integrating Torah, Hebrew, Jewish values, traditions and the holidays.  Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the year and Thursdays (beginning in January) are extended days.  Children bring lunch and participate in enrichment classes of music, art, creative dramatics, and movement.