Are you a parent seeking a nurturing environment where your little one can explore and grow? With a plethora of educational and childcare options available in NYC, it can be challenging to find one that ticks all your boxes. That said, once you discover all that the Early Childhood Center (ECC) at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue has to offer, you’ll see why it’s an exceptional choice.
The ECC is devoted to enhancing your child’s educational journey from day one, lighting a fire for learning that never goes out. Since 1949, the ECC (located at 30 West 68th Street) has pioneered progressive education for children from 12 months to 5 years old, offering play-based learning experiences that promote growth within an inclusive community. ECC learning is based on the Reggio Emilia Approach, an educational philosophy that nurtures a child’s natural curiosity and creativity. The foundational belief is that children are capable, resourceful, and eager to explore. Parents can feel confident in the ECC’s top-quality education knowing that every teacher holds a master’s degree or is currently working towards one.
The ECC begins enriching young minds with the Seeds of Wonder program, a “grown-up and me” interactive morning class for children between 12 and 22 months. Each session offers play-based opportunities for children to investigate engaging materials, take part in movement and song, and socialize with peers. No synagogue membership is required to participate.
One parent praised Seed’s positive impact on her daughter: “When we signed up, we expected opportunities for early socialization and exposure to a school environment. What I didn’t realize was how much Seeds would meet my daughter where she was developmentally, and expose her to new materials and learning opportunities every second of every session.”
Learning at ECC grows with your child, expanding their horizons each year. Children progress from Seeds to the 2s program, designed to transition children from the home environment to school, build trust with teachers, and explore sensory materials like sand and clay. Next, the 3s program develops social and expressive language skills. By the 4s and 5s, children are learning to explore and analyze their world through individual and group learning. Personalized education is made possible by small classroom sizes, dedicated library and STEM specialists, and a studio art teacher.
There’s more! The ECC runs an excellent summer camp for ECC students and non-students aged 2–4 years old. With exciting activities like gardening, creative summer projects, and themed community days like “Pajama Day,” it’s a much-loved adventure! Children also enjoy access to the school’s rooftop and indoor playgrounds, art studio, and fun water machine — as well as weekly Shabbat celebrations.
For your parental flexibility, the ECC now offers an extended 3s program schedule Monday through Thursday, allowing families to choose from one to four extended day sessions per week. These sessions run from 1:00–2:45 p.m., providing a seamless way for children to prolong their learning time.
ECC tuition is an educational springboard for your child which includes access to a vibrant Jewish community and its numerous incredible programs. If you want to find out more, you can schedule a tour or head to the ECC website.
