This new holistic approach to teaching children which will be through social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual aspects - so each child is taken care of as a complete being.

A New Paradigm for Young Learners

The essence of our new holistic model is recognizing children through learning: they are beings with their wellbeing, creativity, relationships, and sense of purpose being the key factors to their growth. The new curriculums that traditional schools use teach subjects mostly in separate classes while our model combines multifaceted growth. To illustrate, while mathematical or reading activities are on, children are also involved in playing scenarios of sharing, emotional check-ins, and nature discovery, all this done mindfully. This collaboration of activities promotes more profound understanding, inquisitiveness, and sturdiness.

Core Pillars of the Holistic Approach
Integrated Learning Experiences

Literacy, numeracy, science, arts, and movement are not taught as separate subjects but through one thematic
unit (e.g. “Gardens,” “Seasons,” “Community Helpers”) where kids via hands-on-parts, stories, experiments, and movement get to experience all areas of learning.

Social & Emotional Foundations

Every day in class starts and finishes with children's check-ins (mood meters, circle time) that help children identify their feelings, enlarge their empathy, and acquire self-regulation skills. Teachers support kids in resolving conflicts, collaboration, and understanding others' views.

Physical & Sensory Engagement

The importance of movement in young bodies is undeniable. Children can play, run, and engage in other
activities daily, thanks to the indoor and outdoor areas, which also include the 32-acre campus and swimming
pools. Gross motor coordination, sensory regulation, and confidence in movement are among the benefits of these activities.

Intellectual Curiosity & Critical Thinking

With our supportive inquiry process, we invite children to ask questions, experiment, note their findings, and think about what they did. Teachers partner up with the kids as co-researchers and facilitators while also delivering the content.

Spiritual & Values Enrichment

Our curriculum interweaves the fundamental values of kindness, love, and forgiveness among others, for the children's exploration. Through different means like storytelling, group reflections, and age-appropriate rituals, the kids are growing their sense of purpose and bonding.

Why Delaware's 5-Star & National Accreditation Matter

We have received national accreditation for our Early Childhood Center and a Delaware 5-Star rating for early learning which means that we are excellent in program quality and accountability. These certifications mean that our holistic model is based on research, always evaluated, and held to the highest standard of care and education.

Programs That Bring It to Life
Full-Day “Preschool Plus” & Infant/Toddler Programs (7:30 AM – 5:30 PM)

Children from 6 weeks to Pre-K will enjoy a full day of fun learning and enrichment activities like swimming, cooking, nature exploration, Judaics, gym, and, of course, creative arts, and many more.

Half-Day Preschool (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Children ages 2 through Pre-K have a very cozy and stimulating morning experience in a nurturing, play-based structure for families that want a morning program.

Club 345 Enrichment Program

The Club 345 caters specifically to kids who are between the ages of 3 and 5 years old. It includes activities that
are fun, artistic, and also involve movement, and these activities are being held on campus. Children who are attending the ECC will be accompanied to this program by the staff.

Summer Camp (K’Ton Ton)

Themed weekly programming is offered for children during school breaks, and it includes different activities such as swimming, arts, nature, and movement all done in accordance with our holistic philosophy.

Supporting Excellence Through Staff & Environment

A professional team of highly qualified individuals is providing the support for our holistic approach. The accreditation of at least 75% of our teachers is an Associate degree or they are taking courses in a University or College of higher learning that is accredited. Teachers take a minimum of 18 hours every year of training in early childhood education to make sure they know the best practices. The entire 32-acre campus is uniquely configured for discovery, sensory play, experiencing nature, and physical activities.

Transforming How Children Learn- The Impact

Initial assessments indicate that children in our holistic program are showing more curiosity, better interaction with their classmates, and are being more persistent in accomplishing their learning tasks. Parents are reporting that their children are more confident about their emotions and are now showing more interest in school. We are confident that the teaching of the program will result in gaining the readiness for kindergarten and beyond not only in the academic realm but also in social and emotional aspects over the years.

Invitation to Families & Community

Come and visit us at our campus where we will show you around, introduce you to our team and you will see for yourself how our holistic philosophy works in the daily lives of children. The application period for the next school year (2026) will be opened in February 2026. Siegel JCC Spaces are limited. Please contact us concerning inquiries, scheduling a visit, or registration information.

About Siegel JCC Early Childhood Center

The Siegel JCC Early Childhood Center is a prestigious institution of national accreditation and Delaware 5-Star rating that is committed to implementing a holistic approach to education integrating mind, body, heart, and spirit with the child at the center of it all. We are situated on a 32-acre campus and besides offering full-day and half-day programs, summer camp, and enrichment activities, we also provide other opportunities that help young learners grow in all aspects.

Media Contact
Siegel JCC
Phone: 302-478-5660
[email protected]
https://www.siegeljcc.org/