Core Program

ECDC offers programs for children ages 2 to 6. With small class sizes and student to teacher ratios, we are able to support the individual needs and development of children. Children play and learn together in a collaborative environment where educators encourage and guide their exploration and discovery.  Our Reggio Emilia-inspired approach means that our content is targeted to the interests and wonderings of the learners in the classroom.  As the children explore topics of interest, the educators integrate materials and experiences that build social, cognitive, and physical skills.  Daily activities include:

  • Self-selected, play-based activities 
  • Class meetings 
  • Small group, open-ended exploration and project work 
  • Snack
  • Gross motor activities offered in a variety of outdoor and indoor play spaces.
  • Art and music programming (monthly)

The Kindergarten Enrichment program is a complement to local half-day kindergarten programs. Children benefit from child-centered, inquiry and project-based learning in a small group environment.  STEM-based themes develop problem solving skills while fostering exploration and creativity.  Kindergarten skill building is embedded into classroom content with plenty of opportunities for collaboration and play with peers.

Lunch

Lunches at ECDC are an optional add on for children ages 3-6. Lunch provides an opportunity to gather and socialize with others. Healthy habits and conversational skills are practiced in a relaxed setting. Families provide packed lunches for their children. Per our food policy, lunches should not include any foods that contain peanuts or tree nuts. We ask that families refrain from sending pork or shellfish products.

Music

The Music program at the Temple Emanuel Early Childhood Development Center is a joyous and thoughtful extension of student explorations in the classroom.  The unique content of each session is designed in partnership with classroom educators to continue the support of student inquiries through the mediums of music and movement, exploring a wide range of topics and genres.  Integrating movement with music supports gross motor development, body awareness, coordination, inhibitory control, and physical expression.  The ultimate goal of the ECDC music program is to bring excitement and self-confidence to each child, embracing them in community through music as a common connection.

The Atelier: ECDC’s Art Program

Atelier is the French word for laboratory. Here at ECDC, we think of this space as a workshop conducive to experimentation, investigation, and observation, where research takes place with and through the use of a wide range of materials. Experiences are designed to be relationship-based, where educators explore alongside the children and learning is reciprocal. It is a place where children and adults alike can relax into the comfort of hard work and the joy of collective industriousness.