Early Explorations

Maimonides Early Explorations Program - MEE believes that the relationship between a parent and a child is precious. The parent plays a crucial role in the development and growth of their infant and toddler.  From that initial loving and trusting bond, to the eventual separation that occurs toward growing independence, this relationship is indeed complex.  Often times, parents struggle with decisions, constantly wondering if theirs was the “right” one. 

Early Explorations provides a nurturing and supportive environment for both the parent and child to help muddle through the waters of early parenting. Through structured programming, parents enjoy other parents while accompanying their children as they participate in a variety of different learning activities

General Goals

 To provide an opportunity for parents to socialize and meet others parents with children in a structured environment.

 To provide educational materials and programming to parents.

 To provide an introductory Jewish socialization experience for infants/toddlers with the support of parents.

 To introduce unique topical classes that provide fun and new ideas on how parents and their children can spend time together.

Themes

Each month the structured daily schedule is molded around a variety of themes.  The themes are based on the Jewish and secular holidays. For example during certain Jewish holidays, the stories that are told and the projects that are developed will relate to that specific holiday.  The curriculum is designed to meet the above goals and to support an environment of learning.

General Structure of Schedule

One and two year olds and their parents are invited to be a part of Early Explorations from 9:30-11:00 on Wednesday mornings.  The dynamics of the class will be monitored carefully by staff.  If there is a need to have more separate activities due to developmental variation, our experienced staff will make the accommodations.  What follows is the general structure of a typical day in Early Explorations.

10:00-10:30  Free Play—socialization.

10:30-10:50  Activity (Story time, Finger play, songs, movement)

10:50-11:10   Snack, blessings, learning manners

11:10-11:30:  Activity continuation and Clean-up