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We define "curriculum" as all of the children's experiences during the day at school, from the time they enter until they leave. Curriculum for young children emerges from their own needs and interests, which have priority in making plans for an individual child and groups of children. We view the teacher as a facilitator whose role is to expand upon the child's level of knowledge and to encourage exploration and independence in the classroom.
The curriculum we use is an integrated one -- Judaic and general experiences are intertwined. Social, emotional, physical and cognitive development all combine together when providing experiences for young children. Our specific curricular goals include:
Social and Emotional Development
- Achieving a comfortable separation from home
- Enjoying the school experience
- Developing a positive self image
- Feeling confident as a learner
- Relating to teachers and children
- Participating in play with another child or in small groups
- Being able to join in larger group activities
- Sharing and expressing feelings comfortably
Intellectual Development
- Encouraging expression of the child's own interests
- Valuing and expanding upon the child's own knowledge
- Enhancing natural interest in the surrounding world
- Encouraging a love of learning
- Developing language skills as well as math and science concepts
- Encouraging creative thinking and problem solving skills
- Enjoying creative expression in art, music, and language
Development of Jewish Awareness
Becoming acquainted with synagogue practices and encouraging an interest in attending services
Familiarizing the child with the joy of Jewish ritual observances surrounding Shabbat, holidays, and kashrut
Learning songs with holiday theme
Learning short Hebrew prayers and blessings
Developing a Hebrew vocabulary related to daily pre-school activities and holidays
Developing a bond with Israel
Learning Jewish values through the practice of mitzvot
Awareness of Ourselves, Others, and the Surrounding World
Providing an environment that supports a non-stereo-typing, non-sexist, multi-cultural approach to learning
Providing a classroom environment that is inclusive, offering books, games, and pictures of differently abled people in a natural way
Providing experiences implementing this awareness of ourselves and the surrounding world
Physical Development
Developing skill in small muscle activities such as playing with manipulative toys, painting, and puzzles
Learning and using good health habits
Providing time every day for indoor and outdoor large muscle activities, such as climbing, running, jumping and building
Providing bi-weekly movement classes
Music Appreciation and Participation
Enhancing listening skills
Becoming acquainted with a variety of instruments
Experiencing music and movement as a means of expression
Developing appreciation of music in various forms
Participating in a variety of musical experiences. |
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