“CHILDREN ARE NOT THINGS TO BE MOLDED, BUT ARE PEOPLE TO BE UNFOLDED” – JESS LAIR
Educational Philosophy
Our school is built on the belief that the earliest events in a child’s life are the most formative and critical determinants of their development. Furthermore, we hold true that children learn best through an experiential and intentional approach to teaching and learning, and that each child is inherently capable and competent. Drawing from the best practices in early childhood education, and with specific inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy, children will learn through an innovative, inquiry-based, hands-on curriculum where they actively participate in the learning process.
Children learn in a physical and emotional environment that is open-ended and lovingly planned to be joyful, magical, and satisfying to them. This imbues them with a deep love of learning. Since their first experiences with knowledge acquisition are so wholesome and positive, children develop a lifelong thirst and passion for knowledge and learning.
Curriculum
Educators design a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and targets the children’s interests while ensuring that each child is progressing in their physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development. A breadth of skills are seamlessly woven into the curriculum so that children learn through doing. Furthermore, educators support children in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as providing children with the tools, and encouraging them with the confidence to explore their world and play independently and collaboratively.
Our graduates move on with full confidence knowing they have all the skills and tools to greet Kindergarten. Their reading and math skills are above the average child entering Kindergarten. They go on to K well-rounded in their wide range of preparatory skills including physical, social, emotional and academic.
Jewish Enrichment
Joy. Character development. Respect for all
Our children learn the customs, traditions, and moral values of Judaism. These lessons are woven naturally through all of our disciplines so that they become both a meaningful and treasured part of each child’s personal milieu. The Jewish values of kindness, appreciation for our world and respect for all are thoughtfully woven into every aspect of the classroom throughout the day. Our children eagerly anticipate holidays such as Rosh Hashanah, Chanukah, Purim, and Passover and understand how to meaningfully and joyfully participate in each holiday. We carefully select teachers who model and nurture Jewish values such as kindness, friendship, empathy, and respect for the environment and the rights of others. Our staff strives to instill our children with the joy and pride of Judaism’s rich heritage and meaningful customs. We regularly celebrate holidays with parents and members of the larger community.
The Classroom
The environment is thought of as the third teacher. Our school environments are beautifully designed to promote a sense of joy, magic, and well-being and to inspire curiosity, wonder, and passion for learning.
The classroom environment is intentionally designed with children’s innate curiosity in mind. Children are encouraged to explore their environment and express themselves through words, drawing/writing, music, art, play and other natural modes of expression. Learning centers are incorporated in each classroom and include blocks, art, dramatic play, books, manipulatives, sensory experiences and scientific discovery. These learning centers foster independence as children actively explore the different areas of their classroom and make choices in their learning and play. Educator’s carefully observe and reflect on how children engage within each center, and make modifications as the childrens’ skills develop.
At Florence Brownstein Preschool, we honor the whole child. Teachers get to know each child deeply and authentically, allowing them to see their value within the classroom, the school and the community.
Featured Testimonial
We have been part of this beautiful community for six years now, and all three of our children have attended the school. I cannot say enough about the warm and nurturing teachers, the superior quality of education, and the attention and care provided to my kids in every aspect of the school environment. Sara and her staff lead the school with a warmth that is felt by everyone who enters its doors. It is a magical place – a nurturing environment for kids to learn, explore and grow. Thank you for giving my children the gift of learning, a love of Judaism, and the excitement to come to school every single day.
Jon & Jamie Banks