ECC Welcome

About Us

The Westchester Jewish Center Early Childhood Center (ECC) is a warm, nurturing environment where children learn through exploration, play, and meaningful hands-on experiences. Inspired by child-centered, developmentally appropriate approaches, our program encourages cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth while fostering each child’s natural curiosity. Our highly educated teachers create engaging indoor and outdoor learning opportunities—from art and sensory stations to our playground STEAM center, mud kitchen, musical fence, and outdoor classroom—ensuring children have the space and support to discover, imagine, and grow every day.

We view children as capable, and we value their individual needs, interests, and learning styles. Low teacher-to-student ratios allow every child to receive personal attention in a safe, caring environment. We partner closely with families, offering guidance and support when developmental evaluations or services may be needed. Our program also weaves Jewish values and traditions throughout the year, with celebrations such as Shabbat, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Purim enriching classroom learning and building community.

ECC Fast Facts

• Low teacher-to-student ratios for individualized attention
• Highly educated, experienced teachers
• Inclusive program—welcoming all families
• Twos, Threes, and Fours programs
• Personalized early childhood experience
• Flexible extended-day options
• Before & after care in partnership with the Rye YMCA
• 12-month programming, including preschool and summer camp

Call us at (914) 698-2767 to schedule a tour and to obtain more information.

Download the ECC Brochure

Download the ECC Camp Brochure

New & Prospective Family Intake Form

2024-25 Calendar

Statement of Philosophy

The philosophy of our Early Childhood Program is that the young child can develop a strong self-image through the use of positive reinforcement in a curriculum that enhances cognitive, physical, social, listening, and language skills, as well as moral growth.

We value children…
for their individuality, their extraordinary wealth of inborn abilities and potential, their strength and creativity. Children are active participants in the development of their identities, autonomy, and creative intelligence.

We value staff…
for their vision, their delight in children, their skill, dedication, knowledge, and commitment to families.

We value families…
for their bonds and traditions, their commitment to career, home and community, and their visions for their children’s education.

We value Judaism…
for the spirit of its teachings, values, traditions, culture and heritage. We encourage families to embrace Judaism at their own comfort level.

Parent and teacher partnerships are fundamental to the foundation of our school community. This reciprocal relationship is built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared responsibility. Our collaboration enables an effective communication network that enriches the growth, care and development of each child.