Where Work is play and learning is fun.
	Children may attend preschool three, four or five days per week. We have two pick up times – 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM.

Welcome

The “Preschool by the Sea” welcomes you to participate in our unique early childhood center. The goal of our preschool is to provide a warm, nurturing Jewish environment in which our children can develop to their fullest potential. We support, guide and stimulate the growth of each child, individually, in the following areas: social, emotional, spiritual, cognitive, creative and physical. This is achieved through developmentally appropriate activities including: arts & crafts, literature, dramatic play, music, dance, movement, tumbling, science and cooking. Through Shabbat and the celebration of all the Jewish Holidays, our children internalize our Jewish values and traditions. Songs, Israeli dances, Hebrew vocabulary, stories and Jewish moral development help to accomplish this. Additionally, our Susan Sims Bodenstein Preschool aims to help our children become independent learners who are able to solve problems and cope with our ever-changing world. We encourage our children to explore and develop their sense of curiosity about the world around them through hands-on experiences. Our children are given ample opportunity to play, share, cooperate, and build self-confidence and esteem. The materials we use vary in complexity and diversity, challenging the children as they develop skills and understanding. Children need years of play with real objects and events before they are able to understand the meaning of symbols such as letters and numbers. Learning takes place as young children interact with other people. They learn with all of their senses, tactilely and through experimentation. Concepts and language skills gradually develop throughout a child’s first few years, enabling children to understand more abstract and symbolic information. An enriching and challenging selection of books are on hand and music appreciation is shared. A variety of paper, water-based paints, markers and other materials provide avenues for creative expression. Large muscle equipment, field trips, classroom responsibilities and problem-solving opportunities with other children and adults round out some of the learning that is experienced at Susan Sims Bodenstein Preschool. Other basic learning materials and activities in our curriculum include manipulative games, dramatic play props (such as those used for the housekeeping and transportation centers,) sand, water play, play dough (and their accessories), table and unit blocks, puzzles with varying number of pieces, board games and a variety of science investigation equipment and items to explore. Our staff uses positive techniques of guidance such as redirection, anticipation and elimination of potential problems, positive reinforcement and encouragement. Consistent, clear rules are explained to the children and understood by the adults. Limits are set for the children, but the environment is arranged so that a minimum number of no’s are necessary. We nurture the development of self-esteem by respecting, accepting and comforting children. The first few days of preschool are very exciting for parent and child, but it can also be a difficult time. However eager your child seems to begin preschool, there will be a moment when s/he realizes that you are not going to be there. The apprehension that accompanies that realization is a normal one, for both of you. Most children have little difficulty adjusting to preschool; nevertheless, a gradual separation is important to assure a smooth transition. The staff of Susan Sims Bodenstein Preschool is committed to giving you support and time to make this adjustment period as pleasant as possible.