Program Offerings

At BJBE, we believe children are capable and creative individuals. Each child is encouraged to be their best self.  A foundation of strong relationships allows each child to develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively at their own pace.  Our children gain self-confidence and problem-solving capabilities as their ideas and observations are validated within the classroom community.  Using the Jewish calendar as a guide, our staff follows best practices in early childhood education to create a high-quality Jewish school. Inspired by the teaching practice of Reggio Emilia, Italy, children and teachers are partners in the learning process where children help to create the curriculum in the classroom based on their curiosity and interests.

If you are looking for information on our Tot-Adult classes, please click here.

2 Year Old Program 

With a trusting relationship between students and teachers providing a foundation for exploration, this introduction-to-school program allows for growth and development of socialization and independence in a warm, nurturing environment.  Activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and engage early learners based on best practices in early childhood research. The morning’s structure allows for a circle time, free play, and fine and gross motor activities that encourage developmentally appropriate growth. We explore Jewish holidays, customs, and traditions through weekly Shabbat celebrations with challah-baking, visits to our Sanctuary, song sessions, and traditional blessings.  Families can opt for a 2 day/week or 3 day/week program.

3 and 4 Year Old Preschool Programs

These programs foster independence and encourage creativity in a warm, nurturing, and supportive environment. Teachers develop a child-inspired curriculum and integrate all areas of development into their morning routine, including social/emotional, cognitive, and fine, and gross motor skills. The children act as explorers in the learning process and create ongoing individual and group projects. Children in these programs receive all readiness skills to assure a successful transition to kindergarten. Children continue to build on their prior knowledge of Jewish holidays, customs, and traditions, and they celebrate Shabbat each week by baking challah, visiting our clergy in the Sanctuary, and singing and reciting the traditional Sabbath blessings.  Families of 3- and 4-year-olds can opt for a 3, 4, or 5-day/week attendance.  4- and 5-year-olds attend 5 days/week.

For all programs, age requirements are based on the child being the appropriate age by September 1st.

Lunch and Enrichment

Extend your child’s day in a warm, nurturing, and enriching setting. Children may participate in community programs and a variety of classes led by Chava Center staff. There are opportunities to register for new offerings each semester.

Children may extend their day to 12:45pm by enrolling in the lunch program.

3-year-olds and 4-year-olds may extend their day to 1:45pm with an on-site Enrichment class.

Stay 'n Play programming extends the day until 3:00pm.

To learn more and/or schedule a tour, email Chava Center Director Jacqueline Hubert or call the office at (847) 940-7575 and ask to speak to Jacqueline.