Jewish Education
Jewish experiences are accompanied by unique aromas, textures, colors, rhythms and sounds. Weekly rituals of baking challah, celebrating Shabbat, and sharing Havdallah blessings are marked with deep sensory memories. These rituals create a sense of predictability and emotional security in children's lives. Celebrating Jewish holidays with many other families at the school and at the Temple develops a strong sense of community and belonging.
We believe that children learn kindness by experiencing and participating in kind relationships. Our teachers foster a climate of careful listening and respect for every child. Children enjoy the calm pace of daily routines, and our flexible schedule easily accommodates the varying needs of our children. Engaging activities support the children’s curiosity and expand their interests.
Children have a strong urge to protect and take care of animals. At TSNS, toddlers and preschoolers take care of classroom pets: Cupcake (our beloved guinea pig), fire-bellied frogs, ants, butterflies, ladybugs, spiders and worms, as well as the wild birds, bunnies and chipmunks who frequent our outdoor classroom. According to Jewish custom, the animals in our care are treated with sensitivity, and children learn to take care of the animals’ physical and emotional needs. Classroom pets are fed even before the children set up a meal for themselves.
Many authentic Jewish experiences are supported by our nature-rich curriculum. When children tend to vegetable gardens, flowers and trees, they develop a strong sense of involvement in Jewish traditions. Children plant, grow and harvest herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are laden with Jewish meaning: grapes, pomegranate, figs, wheat, parsley, horseradish and lettuce. From season to season, children appreciate the results of their effort when they share fruits harvested for snacks. Children use herbs in besamim boxes, decorate our classroom sukkuh with flowers and vegetables from the school garden, celebrate trees at Tu-beshvat, and place parsley and horseradish on the seder plate.
Jewish ideas of community do not exist without the Jewish contribution to the defense of human dignity and human rights. Educators at Temple Shalom Nursery School take pride in creating an inclusive school culture.