Philosophy
The Gan Jewish Early Learning Center unites children, teachers, family and community in a positive and constructive early childhood experience.
Our Jewish values drive the curriculum, environment and school culture. We model and encourage kindness, respect, compassion, confidence and responsibility. Judaism teaches that the formative years of early childhood are vitally important. A child is viewed as a seed that we nurture with the utmost care, since the seed's every experience will shape and color the quality of its matured self.
Judaism underscores the uniqueness of every child, teaching us to train children according to their individual paths. We recognize that each child has his or her unique needs, interests and passions. Our children are viewed as collaborators: they are competent, curious, inquisitive, unique, and creative.
The Gan takes advantage of the best, most innovative educational philosophies based on the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach. We believe in an experiential and intentional approach to teaching and learning. This approach fosters children's intellectual development as they are encouraged to explore their environment and express themselves through words, movement, drawing, painting, playing and other natural modes of expression. We promote an environment where children can develop the critical thinking and problem solving skills for a successful and meaningful life.
Goals
At The Gan Jewish Early Learning Center we:
►Encourage children to make respectful choices, towards themselves, others and their surroundings. This helps develop their self-efficacy and confidence.
►Nourish your child’s heart and mind, as we develop cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills, so that your child will be a well-rounded person capable of adapting to new situations.
►Educate your child in a creative, supportive, and warm Jewish environment, so that your child will not only learn about life as a Jew, but will learn to love it too!
Staff
The teacher’s role in a child’s journey is to support and facilitate their growth and development. To teach young children, is a great privilege and responsibility. Teaching is a valued and time-honored Jewish tradition.
We look for teachers who are passionate and will offer a nurturing experience for the children.
Our teachers have a deep understanding of children and the way they think, and have the desire to create meaningful relationships with them. All our teachers believe in the importance of seeing each child as an individual. Our teachers plan and adapt the curriculum and the environment, to meet the needs of each child.
In the Reggio Emilia approach, the teacher sees herself as a learner – alongside the children – open to new thoughts and ideas. The teacher listens carefully to the children, observes and documents their work, and stimulates their thinking. Our teachers are committed to strengthening and enriching their knowledge, by continuing their own education.