Curriculum

Our Philosophy

The Early Childhood (EC) Program at Schechter celebrates the uniqueness of each child. We respect individual differences in learning styles and growth patterns, and we understand that children thrive socially, emotionally and intellectually when provided with a developmentally appropriate environment. Our nurturing environment teaches responsibility, respect, values and independence. Schechter students grow to see themselves as an integral part of a Jewish community and to understand that Judaism is a way of life.

An Emerging Curriculum Inspired by Reggio Emilia

The EC Program combines the best of our modern educational system with the early childhood philosophy developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy. This approach focuses on:

• Fostering relationships among children, teachers, parents and community
• Incorporating hands-on and minds-on exploration

The values and philosophy of the Reggio Emilia approach dovetail with Schechter’s own, enhancing the school’s commitment to providing an excellent Jewish and general studies education.

Rooted in Jewish Tradition

At Schechter, Jewish learning, identity and values are part of everyday life. Our core values of Wisdom (Chochma), Community (Klal Yisrael), and Good Heart (Lev Tov) are incorporated throughout. The Early Childhood Program integrates these values throughout its curriculum via classroom activities, experiences and interactions.

Parents are a vital part of the Schechter community and we invite their participation in various school events including: Shabbat lunch, holiday celebrations, field trips, school presentations, and various family programs throughout the year.

Guided by the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards

Our Early Childhood curriculum adheres to the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards and is endorsed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The curriculum identifies goals in eight domains of development:

• Cognition
• Social and Emotional
• Physical
• Language and Literacy
• Creative Arts
• Mathematics
• Science,
• Social Studies