New Early Childhood Education Program Launches in Summit

Temple Sinai in Summit, NJ is excited to announce the launch of its new Early Childhood Education Program (ECEP), open to children of all religious backgrounds. 

Currently running Toddler & Me, a child-caregiver school-readiness program, the ECEP will open the doors to its classes for 2-, 3- and 4-year-olds in September 2013.

Based on the best practices from a variety of different educational approaches, the ECEP has been designed to be an active environment that will inspire creativity, imagination, and a love of learning in children.  The curriculum incorporates both child-centered and teacher-guided instruction to teach developmentally appropriate skills based on themes that emerge during classroom discussions and interactions. Children with all learning styles can move through skills mastery at their own pace, using materials and activities that interest them.

“Children are born with the curiosity, ability, and desire to learn about their world and the people in it,” says ECEP Director Amy Damast, who joined Temple Sinai after seven years of teaching at Temple Emanu-El and who also holds a Ph.D. in psychology.  “Our goal at the ECEP is to create opportunities for children to explore and learn in safe and developmentally appropriate environments."

Classes at the ECEP will take place in Temple Sinai’s renovated classrooms, and the children will have use of all Temple facilities – the playground and indoor play areas, the sanctuary and chapel, the library, and the kitchen.  Situated in the historic Todd mansion, the temple and the ECEP have a distinctive “homey” feel throughout their indoor and outdoor spaces.  Flexible scheduling – including two-to five-day options; “lunch bunch”; and extended day availability – will also be a hallmark of the program.

“Choosing a program that fits your child’s and family’s needs is an important decision,” says Damast. “We are excited to bring this great new option to the community.”  Families are invited to visit Temple Sinai’s ECEP to observe the rich and creative experiences it offers. 

About Temple Sinai

Located at 208 Summit Ave. in Summit, NJ 

Temple Sinai (www.templesinainj.org) is a warm, dynamic, 60-year-old Reform Jewish congregation welcoming families from all religious backgrounds and phases of life.  Temple Sinai resides in the historic Todd mansion, a beautifully renovated and expanded space with convenient drop-off and parking.