Located right here on the Upper West Side, Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Early Childhood Center (ECC) values progressive education, creative play-based experiences, and building strong Jewish identities.
The ECC’s philosophy is based on the world-renowned schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, which value children as capable, strong, and rich with wonder and knowledge. Through play, its children are empowered to explore their surroundings, form relationships with teachers and peers, and work with a wide variety of materials to create, experiment, and discover.
Families are invited to come tour the ECC’s spaces. They’ll see the state-of-the-art rooftop playground and water play area. They’ll see the whimsical indoor playroom, created through a collaboration of the school’s expert staff, parents, and leading design firm May + Watkins. And they’ll experience the light-filled art studio, the beating heart of the school, looking out on a terrace with age-appropriate climbing equipment and a gardening space.
The ECC’s expert teachers have an unparalleled passion for early childhood education, and many have been with the school for more than 15 years.
The school views parents as essential partners in its work, and the ECC is extremely fortunate to have a close-knit community of active and involved parents. Its caring clergy play a huge role in shaping children’s early Jewish identities, and in bringing Jewish values and traditions to the classroom.
At the ECC, children are valued as capable and competent members of the community. Its educators provide opportunities for children to learn more about the world around them, as the children teach them how to view the ordinary with wonder and joy.
Click here to explore the ECC’s programs, schedule a tour, or get in touch.
