JCC Chicago--Florence G. Heller JCC

Our unique indoor and outdoor classrooms are thoughtfully designed for each specific age group using natural elements and great attention to detail. Each space becomes a home away from home, a place where children can learn and explore the world around them.

varies by age

available

JCC Chicago Early Childhood’s philosophy and curriculum is based on a
combination of several components that include: cutting-edge brain research,
developmentally appropriate practice, Illinois Early Learning Standards, the
guidelines of NAEYC (the National Association for the Education of Young
Children), Multiple Intelligences Theory, educational inspiration from Reggio
Emilia, Italy, and the integration of secular and Jewish learning. JCC Chicago
Early Childhood prepares children for their next formal educational step and
helps children achieve their full potential by focusing on social, emotional,
cognitive, fine and gross motor, language, and spiritual development.

A defining and essential component of JCC Chicago’s Early Childhood Program, our full-time onsite Social Services Team, is dedicated to partnering with parents and educators to help each child realize his/her fullest potential as they become part of their classroom community. Our team is comprised of experienced, licensed child development experts and mental health professionals who are focused on enhancing the educational and psycho-social development of every child within our program.

Social Services provides a variety of personalized services for our Early Childhood families, including the identification and early intervention of developmental and behavioral concerns, recommendations and classroom adaptations to support the unique needs of each child, support

Better Magazine's Best of 2020

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Reggio and nature inspired program teaches 21st century skills. Our educators are focused on social-emotional learning to build resiliency and help students adjust to our new world. Helping children understand and manage their emotions, feel and show empathy for others, establish healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions are the cornerstones of growing great people. Focused on building these essential skills and preventing learning deficits that children outside our program may have experienced during the pandemic!

At JCC Chicago Early Childhood Centers it is our passion and our privilege to provide your children with endless opportunities to learn, grow and explore.

Deep understanding, love, support and care of every child is paramount to what we do. Days are filled with music, creativity, outdoor playtime, celebrations of Jewish values and continuous exploration of the world around us. Classrooms are the first community and we are so proud of those we build together every day.

OPEN 7AM - 6PM
At JCC Chicago Early Childhood, your child is at the center of all we do. Children are cherished and valued for their sense of wonder and curiosity. We foster learning, inquiry and growth through our curriculum that emerges from their questions, explorations and experiences. Families are welcomed and encouraged to be actively engaged in their child's early learning. We guide, support and value our partnership with parents. Educators are devoted to excellence and actively support the unique development of each child. We serve as role models for children, partners for parents, and inspiration for each other. Communities are built upon respect, trust, communication and shared experiences. We embrace each family's diversity and recognize that each JCC Chicago school is reflective of the community it serves.

Licensing and Standards: DCFS The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) licenses all JCC Chicago Early Childhood Programs. In addition, the City of Chicago also licenses all JCC Chicago Early Childhood sites located in the City of Chicago. NAEYC National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the nations leading voice for early childhood education programs. NAEYC accredited programs have demonstrated a commitment to providing a high quality program for young children and their families. JCC Chicago endorses the NAEYC criterion, which is reflected in our philosophy and curriculum. JCC Chicago Early Childhood upholds the high standards set forth by NAEYC and follows all of their recommended guidelines.