Choosing the right environment for your child’s early education is about more than just finding a classroom—it’s about finding a community where they can flourish. At the Jay and Rose Phillips Early Childhood Center and Preschool (ECC) at the Boulder JCC, our preschool programs are designed to nurture curiosity, foster independence, and build a lifelong love of learning.

Whether your child is ready to spread their wings in our Butterflies class or is preparing for the transition to elementary school in our Pre-K or Transitional Kindergarten (TK) programs, we offer a play-based, child-led journey rooted in excellence.

The Butterflies (3 Years Old by October 1)

Nurturing Independence and Social Connection At three years old, children are beginning to navigate the world with newfound independence. In our Butterflies classrooms, we embrace this "age of wonder" through hands-on exploration and meaningful relationships.

• Play-Based Learning: We believe children learn best through play. Our educators intentionally organize environments that invite children to experiment, ask questions, and dive deep into their interests.
• Developing Social Skills: Teachers focus on helping children build friendships, learn collaboration, and develop the emotional tools they need to communicate their needs.
• Flexible Schedules: Choose from 2, 3, 4, or 5-day options with various pick-up times to suit your family’s needs.

Pre-Kindergarten (4 Years Old by October 1)

Building Confidence and Critical Thinking Our Pre-K program bridges the gap between early discovery and academic readiness. Here, we honor each child’s unique learning style while introducing more complex projects and collaborative experiences.

• Reggio Emilia Inspired: Following the constructivist philosophy, our Pre-K students engage in long-term projects that emerge from their own ideas. This approach fosters critical thinking and a sense of ownership over their learning.
• Ecological Awareness: Students often spend time at our on-site Milk and Honey Farm, learning the importance of taking care of the Earth and each other.
• UPK Approved: Our Pre-K program includes Universal Pre-K (UPK) credit from the State of Colorado.

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) (5 Years Old by October 1)

The Perfect Bridge to Elementary Success New for the 2026-2027 school year, our TK program is specifically designed for children who turn five by October 1 but could benefit from an extra year of growth before traditional Kindergarten.

• Mastery of Skills: TK isn't a repeat of Pre-K; it’s an extension. We focus on mastering Kindergarten readiness skills including complex multi-step directions and advanced social-emotional navigation.
• Academic Foundation: While rooted in play, Literacy, Math, and Sciences are intentionally woven into the curriculum, guided by district standards to ensure a seamless transition to any elementary school.
• Small Ratios: With small class sizes, your child receives personalized attention in a nurturing, high-value environment.

Why Choose the Boulder JCC ECC?

• Compassionate Faculty: Learn from experienced educators who view children as capable, creative, and full of potential.
• Jewish Values: Our curriculum is framed by the Sheva Lenses, integrating universal values like Tikkun Olam (Repair of the World) and Brit (Covenant/Community).
• Beautiful Environments: From our sun-drenched indoor classrooms to our "Forest School" outdoor experiences, our space is designed to spark intellectual engagement.

Schedule a Tour Today!

The best way to experience the magic of the Boulder JCC Early Childhood Center is to see it in action. We invite you to walk through our halls, meet our goats at the farm, and see how our teachers bring stories to life.

Contact Us: Visit boulderjcc.org/eccclasses to learn more about rates and schedules, or email Jackie Trapp at jackie.trapp@boulderjcc.org to schedule your personal tour.