From the Early Childhood Classroom; Notes from the Field

The Early Childhood Center of the Osher Marin Jewish Community Center has always been on a Jewish journey. The calendar, ethics and observances of our people have always been at the forefront of our educational philosophy. However, our teaching techniques were somehow left behind as we advanced spiritually. It was not until the introduction of the JECEI (Jewish Early Childhood Education Initiative) philosophy, that the learning and teaching became echad, one. JECEI introduced us as educators to the concept of constructivism, and has helped children, teachers and parents, become partners on a Jewish journey of a much deeper level. JECEI has allowed us to leave the mitzrayim, the narrow confines, of traditional teaching and enter the world of creativity and the ideal setting for true experiential learning. ~ By Tessa Cherniss, ECE Teacher, Marin JCC