Gan Torah Preschool
A Project of Chabad Jewish Center of Mountain View
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OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Gan Torah we aim to create a warm, healthy and happy environment where young children can grow and develop emotionally, socially, cognitively and physically. Our staff are recognized for their love towards the children and focused on the individual progress of each of their students.
We base our curriculum on the latest innovative ideas in early childhood education with a focus on skill, independence, self confidence and community. Additionally, we endeavor to impart a love and flair for the beauty and culture of Judaism, as well as nurture and develop faith and trust in G‑d. We hope to inculcate a love for Israel, all things Jewish and an involvement in the performance of the Mitzvot.
The seeds of learning, Jewish identity, curiosity and caring are planted in early childhood. Our program offers personal, social and academic growth. Young children develop at different paces, our teachers are sensitive to the wide range of abilities and developmental levels within their age group. They offer creative activities that fit into the broad developmental continuum represented by the students.
Each classroom has teachers who guide the children and promote active learning, problem-solving, discovery of friendship and exploration of their new, expanded learning world. The classroom is a community in which Jewish values are modeled and reinforced. The curriculum combines structured and unstructured activities that encourage young children's most important work-creative play. Every day is filled with art, music, stories, outdoor activity, and hands-on exploration.
DAILY SCHEDULE
A day at Gan Torah
LEARNING CENTERS FREE PLAY
At centers, the children get a chance to explore the activity centers on their own.
These focus centers allow them to learn new skills in the way they learn best - through play! Daily centers include art, fine motor, manipulatives, building, writing and sensory
8:30-9:30 AM
MORNING MEETING
We welcome each child and the new day of learning with fun songs in English and Hebrew. Classic Jewish prayers and blessings are sung together.
10:00-10:20 AM
OUTDOOR PLAY
Our outdoor play time focuses on group cooperative play and gross motor skills. With our sandbox, slides, drama center and tricycles, there is plenty of opportunity for fun in the sun. We enjoy weekly art and sports style games including basketball, soccer, tag, parachute, dancing, obstacle courses and hunts.
10:30-11:15 AM1:15-1:45 PM
ACADEMICS
Twice a day, we join together for an engaging learning conversation about the theme of the day. Through storytelling, puppet shows, visual aids and props; teachers guide a hands-on discussion with the children. We explore Jewish Holidays, Judaic practice, Hebrew and English Alphabet, science and social skills. Our discussions are followed up by a related art or activity.
11:30-12:001:45-2:15
MEAL TIMES
Meal times are another opportunity for learning at Gan Torah. We provide two snacks and hot lunch daily. During meal times we learn about independence, manners, responsibility and blessings on food.
Snacks: 9:45 AM & 2:45 PMLunch: 12:00-12:30
An additional snack is served during aftercare at 3:45
REST TIME
A quiet time to rest or sleep (in the younger classroom). Children can choose to do a quiet activity while resting on their mat and listen to soft music or a story. Younger children sleep for at least an hour.
12:30-1:15 PM
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