Experience with JCC Preschool in West Orange

We're considering a switch to the JCC full day preschool program in West Orange and was wondering if anyone has personal experiences to share (positive or negative). Thanks!

We loved our time at the JCC. My child went from the age of 18 months until starting K. Loved the teachers, creative environment, extension classes. I will say that I did not always "gel" with the other parents but my child had such a great experience both academically and socially (well as much as a pre-school can be) and it was a great decision for us.

My twin boys are there now and we're very happy with it. This is their second year and they have also attended camp there - amazing facilities, wonderful faculty and I've been truly impressed with what they've learned this year. The only "downside" might be if you're looking for a smaller school - there are many, many classes there and lots of kids (class size is approximately 16 for 2s and 3s). I am friendly with the other parents in my kids' class, but not so much with all of the other parents in other classes, levels, etc (though we do all chat at pickup, etc.) There's lot of opportunity to get involved (though not mandatory) and I'm very happy with our choice to send the boys there. ps - I don't have experience with the full care program but know it starts at 7:30 am.

I don't have experience with full care, but this is my 2nd year with my kids in the pre-school and 3rd upcoming summer with their camp. My oldest is in the 4's and my youngest is in the full day 3's. I have had nothing but a positive experience there. My normally clingy 3 year old has thrived at the school and happily runs ahead of me to get to his classroom every day.

Excellent feedback - thank you so much everyone!

Could anyone who has recent experience there please comment on how play-based (or not) they are, and how much reading/writing/math are pushed (or not) in the 4-5 year olds? Thanks!



BsMom said:
Could anyone who has recent experience there please comment on how play-based (or not) they are, and how much reading/writing/math are pushed (or not) in the 4-5 year olds? Thanks!

Anyone?



BsMom said:


BsMom said:
Could anyone who has recent experience there please comment on how play-based (or not) they are, and how much reading/writing/math are pushed (or not) in the 4-5 year olds? Thanks!
Anyone?

Reading/writing/math are not pushed at all, but I will say that I was pleased with my daughters teachers when she was in the 4's last year. She was able to recognize some sight words. She was well prepared for Kindergarten this year. If we hadn't decided to send our kids to Golda Och, I would have kept my son there for the 4's this year as well. It was just easier for me to have him in pre-k in the same school my daughter goes to.


In our experience, the closest thing to criticism for the JCC vis a vis SOMA is that it's a bit further than Beth El/TBTI/MJC/Oheb and it has far fewer SOMA families. Otherwise, I've always heard good things.



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