TODDLER TO TEEN
Gan Elohim Early Learning Center
Build the foundation for lifelong learning.
Welcome to Gan Elohim
Empowering children to explore, discover, and grow.
In the midrash (story) called “Gan Elohim,” or “God’s Garden,” a young girl brings flowers each day to contribute to the Mishkan (portable sanctuary) that the Israelites are building in the desert. One day she is told to stop, but the girl refuses. She finds the High Priest and explains she wants to bring God’s garden into God’s house. The High Priest understands that everyone, no matter how big or small, has something to offer. He encourages her to continue bringing flowers daily. This story so embodies our school’s philosophy that we included its title in our name.
Gan Elohim is a loving, inclusive, play-based environment in which children and their families learn and grow. We incorporate our children’s interests into their learning experiences. Classrooms encourage discovery, learning, and exploration as children learn to make choices for themselves.
Our teachers further support emotional growth by encouraging children to form friendships, express their feelings, play imaginatively, and develop their own vibrant identities. By fostering positive self-esteem, kindness, and confidence—all critical building blocks of development—we provide a values-driven community that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
Each of us—staff, families, and children—bring unique gifts to create our wonderful garden, Gan Elohim. We look forward to welcoming you to our community!
Reach Out
Temple: 781.235.8419
Gan Elohim: 781.997.4231
Director of Gan Elohim Early Learning Center
Lisa Scott
781.997.4231
Upcoming Events
Our Programs
We offer programming during the school year, including school vacation weeks, and through mid-August during our Summer Fun Program.
Each day at Gan Elohim, we engage students in learning, foster joy in Jewish living, and build a community in which relationships last a lifetime.
Toddlers
Ages 15 months to 3 years
We provide a nurturing environment in which children explore, learn, grow, and start lifelong friendships. Children begin their Jewish journey celebrating holidays with friends and family. They connect with each other on both a social and emotional level as they choose activities based on personal interests. Your child will be appreciated, loved, and cherished each day!
Preschool
Ages 3-5
Our play-based preschool classes are guided by highly experienced teachers. Children choose from variety of open-ended, self-directed activities that foster discovery and experiential learning. Your child will develop friendships and deepen connections to Jewish learning, values, and traditions.
Transitional Kindergarten*
Ages 5-6
Our program strengthens pre-literacy skills, whole body listening management, imagination, problem-solving, and risk-taking. Children engage in active learning and discover their Jewish identities daily. Your child will continue to grow through exploration, communication, leadership, and confidence building.
*A minimum number of children is required in order for this program to run.
Schedule
Gan Elohim families lead busy lives. Our school hours provide families the flexibility they need.
Gan Elohim Hours
Regular Gan Elohim Hours
Monday through Friday, 9:00 am–1:00 pm
Extended Day Options:
(Registration required)
Early Bird Drop-Off
7:30 am or 8:30 am–9:00 am
Stay Day
1:00 pm–2:30 pm, or
1:00 pm–4:00 pm, or
1:00 pm–5:30 pm
A Typical Morning at Gan Elohim
Arrival
Morning Meeting
Welcome each other & discover the day’s activities.
Choice Time
Choose from activities such as block corner, painting, Legos, and puzzles.
Clean Up & Snack
Following a cooking activity, share a healthy snack. On Fridays, celebrate Shabbat with challah & grape juice.
Circle Time
Participate in discussions, music, drama, movement, and story time.
Outdoor Play
Enjoy time on the playground (or in our spacious community rooms in extreme weather).
Regular Day Dismissal
Stay Day
Activities include yoga, sports, arts, and more.
Registration
Enrollment is open to children ages 15 months to 6 years old. TBE membership is not required to enroll in Gan Elohim. We welcome children of all faiths and ethnic groups.
Registration Dates for 2023–2024
Enrollment opens on October 16, 2023!
Enrollment for the 2023–2024 school year opens for TBE members on October 16 and the community at large on October 30.
Forms for Enrolled Students
Please fill out these forms completely. We cannot permit your child to attend our program without them.
Please notify the school if any of the information changes.
Emergency Card
Face Sheet
Parent Consent of Allergy Policy FormTo be completed by ALL families.Medication Consent Form
If your child requires medication while in our care, complete this form with doctor approval.Individual Health Care Plan
If your child requires an Epi Pen for an allergy, complete this form with doctor approval.
All students are required to have a copy of their immunization form including evidence of lead testing as required by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care.
Watch Gan Elohim in Action!
Good Morning from Gan Elohim
How great it is to hang out on this day
Music with Cantor Zell
Gan Elohim Preschool is under the auspices of the Department of Early Education and Care, which is the licensing agency for the State of Massachusetts. Located at 10 Austin Street, Worcester, MA, phone: (508) 798-5180.
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