CBE Kids Camp

Reviews (177)

• Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey

  October 2024

  Location: Main location/Garfield REVIEW: My daughter was so happy, and came home bubbly each day with things to share. She’s been in swim lessons for almost her whole life, but never really got it. I think the near-daily swimming this summer finally helped build her confidence and now she can swim! A big win for all of us, and we plan to send her again next year. Also, found this camp to be more affordable than others but still packed with fun and sweet counselors. CHANGES: The extended day felt unstructured and, on certain days, a little sloppy. The kids played on some playmats and the counselors just lined the walls looking exhausted from the day. Perhaps a little more structure would have helped everyone? It was literally our daughters only complaint about the camp. DETAILS: Age of child; 6 … Weeks attended: 7

• Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey

  October 2024

  Location: Park Slope REVIEW: Our camp experience was wonderful! Our son loved all of the different activities they do - cooking, theater, dance, coding, sports, SWIM, gymnastics and more! There's also free time to just play with friends, do crafts, etc. There were all camp trivia games, dress up days, a talent show, and more that made this such a fun experience. He loved the counselors who really seemed to care and get to know each of the kids. He always wanted to stay longer every day! We loved that there were indoor activities on the super hot days that were engaging and active and they also got the chance to go to the park and be outside a lot also. CHANGES: Can't think of anything! DETAILS: Age of child; 6 years old … Weeks attended: 4

• Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey

  October 2024

  Location: Park Slope REVIEW: My daughter loved the variety of activities at CBE. Swimming was her favorite, but she also really enjoyed coding, which we never would have tried if it wasn't part of the camp program. CHANGES: I wish it went through the end of August. DETAILS: Age of child; 5 … Weeks attended: 7

• Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey

  October 2024

  Location: Park Slope REVIEW: Absolutely loved this camp! Was the right balance of indoor and outdoor time for my kid. I wanted him to get a lot of physical activity and outdoor time, but he also loved the more "indoor" things like art class, coding class and chess. CBE is really close to the park, so they took daily trips there and had swim classes on site at least 3 times a week. The counselors were mostly high school and college kids and had seemingly endless energy and enthusiasm for camp. It reminded me a lot of the summer day camps of my own childhood! They were fun but also really warm - I saw a lot of kids having trouble with drop off and getting lots of individual attention and love from the counselors. Already thinking about going back next summer! CHANGES: My only issue was when the heat index prevented them from going outside entirely. They said their hands were tied, but there were a few weeks in July with virtually no outdoor time, which bummed me out given that it's summer and they're RIGHT next to the park! But the indoor space is huge and the kids have access to a pool and a big gymnasium to run around in, so it was fine. DETAILS: Age of child; 4 … Weeks attended: 6

• Review from the 2024 Summer Camp Survey

  October 2024

  Location: Park Slope REVIEW: My child really enjoyed this camp and is asking to go back again next year. My daughter gets car/bus sick so it's a big feature for us that this camp sticks to the park and has a pool onsite. They had a variety of activities for the kids (gymnastics, cooking, dance, coding, etc.). CHANGES: DETAILS: Age of child; 5 … Weeks attended: 4

• Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey

  November 2023

  Location: 274 Garfield Place How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 4 Review: My kid loved her time at CBE's summer camp. They did so many activities, and even had swim classes in their on site pool a few days a week. That was a huge selling point for me for her to attend. The counselors and administrative staff were wonderful, and they had a lot of enthusiasm. The facilities are nice and they have a lot of space. There's a gym, a multipurpose room with a stage, tons of classrooms, and they are a block from Prospect Park. On days where the weather was too hot (or smoky) they stayed inside. They did music, sports, dance, art, nature, , theater, gymnastics, and coding (which I think was video games). We aren't jewish, but that wasn't an issue with attending. It seems they are welcoming for all kids. My daughter came home singing some songs in Hebrew and learned a little about what shabbat is. It was good exposure for her to learn a bit about those things since we aren't a religious family. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? The day ends at 3:30-4:00. The aftercare costs for a week was an extra $200, which was was a lot for a short amount of extra care.

• Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey

  November 2023

  Location: 8th Ave and Garfield How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 4 Review: Housed in the temples school building, kids move between various activities (art, music, coding, nature, park time, etc) including swim at least a few times a week. My kid loved camp, and is already asking when it starts again next summer. Kids don’t have a “home base classroom” like they did at pre-school aged camp, but it didn’t seem to bother the kids. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? More swim in the early weeks, and perhaps more help for the littlest kids in keeping track of their stuff. My kid was constantly leaving behind clothing and swim gear on swim days.

• Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey

  November 2023

  Location: 274 Garfield pl How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 4 (kindergarten) Review: CBE Kids Camp was great! My daughter did it for the whole summer. Her group had a rotating schedule of fun activities like swimming, gymnastics, music, art, nature, and others, plus less-structured time. After-care was pretty unstructured; the kids could run around in a gym space with stuff to climb on and draw with markers. My daughter's counselors were very sweet older teens or younger adults who related well to the kids. I was also really happy with the administrators, who were easy to contact and responsive to questions/concerns. Overall we were extremely happy with this camp and will most likely do it again next year. I would recommend it very highly. The camp was a bit less busy for the first week, then was quite bustling and full in July, and then calmed down again in August. They got more swimming time later in the summer because there were fewer other groups using the pool, but I'm not sure if it's like that every year or if the extra time was just luck this year.

• Review from the 2023 Summer Camp Survey

  November 2023

  Location: Congregation Beth Elohim How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 5 Review: The elementary aged camp at CBE has much less professional staff than the prek camp. Many staff were on their phones including during pick up and drop off while with children and very unengaged. My child reports that the "coding" activity is just watching youtube videos on the computer. The aftercare program is totally hands off and kids are playing on their own with the adults on their phones and otherwise checked out. However, it's been great to have daily swimming in their pool-- that is the main upside to this experience IMO. Overall would not recommend.

• 2's programs?

  February 2023

  We also love CBE's pre-school camp, which starts at 2.5 yrs. It doesn't have the themes you described, but does have a pool!

• Review from the 2022 Summer Camp Survey

  September 2022

  Location: 8th ave How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 4 Review: We love Cbe. They are so amazing with children and they run a school like structure but that is tailored to camp and fun. There is a ton of swimming and water play. There is music and pizza Fridays! It was perfect in this hot hot weather for the kids to be able to cool down with ice pops and sit on the steps and play games. And there was a lot of fun Classroom play an excellent extended day program were the kids got to run around on a jungle gym. The staff is incredible so is the support staff. Everybody is very responsive and concerned about your child. And they really just want them to grow and develop and have an excellent summer. We just wish it ran into August.

• Review from the Fall 2021 Early Childhood Education Survey

  December 2021

  Type of facility: Preschool Review: Warm, loving and knowledgeable teachers. The curriculum is child led and always so creative. In addition to the extensive indoor spaces for kids to run and climb and play, kids spend a lot of time in the park exploring nature. The dual language program is incredible. It enables children to learn another language (Hebrew) joyfully and seamlessly. There are specialists such as the incredible larger than life art teacher and the beloved music teacher. What amenities does the facility provide? Has after-school options, Has early morning hours What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Nothing. Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? School has been transparent and consistent about policies throughout the pandemic. Kids reliably wear their masks. Teacher do an amazing job of getting the kids comfortable with the COVID protocols like mask wearing, hand washing, etc. COVID Testing for kids and teachers happens regularly onsite and is done gently. All teachers are required to be vaccinated. As the course of the pandemic has changed over time, the school regularly reflects on policies and makes appropriate adjustments.

• Review from the Fall 2021 Early Childhood Education Survey

  December 2021

  Type of facility: Preschool Review: We have had multiple children go through this program. The level of education is unbeatable! The teachers are incredible across the board, with all ages. The play-based philosophy weaves learning in with fun in the most organic way. The learning is experiential and out of the box - just ask about their art specialist who literally got a tractor doing renovations on the street to paint with a giant paint brush with the kids. The downsides are that this is a preschool and not a daycare and sees themselves that way - there is no extended care (early or late) and no engagement with the parents about need for that. Communication between teachers and parents is excellent. Communication between administration and parents is less successful. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? perspective of the administration about partnering with parents and engaging parents needs. Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? stringent safety protocols

• Review from the Fall 2021 Early Childhood Education Survey

  December 2021

  Type of facility: Preschool Review: CBE has been wonderful for my three year old (and he did twos also). It is such a special place. The teachers are really wonderful! The program is play-based and encourages their imaginations. They spend a ton of time in Prospect Park and have been very conscious of COVID protocols. I’d highly recommend the program. Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? Very pandemic conscious - masks, regular testing, strict protocols

• Review from the Fall 2021 Early Childhood Education Survey

  December 2021

  Type of facility: Preschool Review: We love CBE. Incredible teachers, facility, vibe, care for our child. She is growing by leaps and bounds and we feel that she is extremely well supported and buttered there. Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? Excellent protocol - testing, masks required for all, all people in building vaxxed

• Review from the 2021 Summer Camp Survey

  August 2021

  Name of camp: CBE Summer camp Location: Park slope How old was your child when they attended camp this summer? 2.5 Review: Very developmentally in tune - helped our 2.5 year old transition to his first structured programming (kind teachers who helped with drop off) Fun and creative programming - gardening, music, lots of great arts, water play, gym (indoors in extreme heat) Great COVID precautions Nice updates from camp teachers

• Review from the 2020–2021 Daycare, Preschool, Pre-K, and K Survey

  July 2021

  Review: The teachers and early education programming are absolutely incredible. The curriculum is child-led and includes a lot of social emotional support. The art teacher is a gift. That said, for all the wonderful things about the program, the communication with parents and support of parent needs (like aftercare) is a continuing challenge and source of deep frustration. Facility amenities: What would you change about the program? Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? From the kids perspective, this felt like a normal year, which is incredible. The strict safety protocols in the classroom were appreciated, and the school used all the outdoor space in the park beautifully. At the same time, stricter protocols than many preschools as well as onerous last minute schedule changes and testing requirements were incredibly challenging for parents to navigate, and there was little two-way communication.

• Review from the 2020–2021 Daycare, Preschool, Pre-K, and K Survey

  July 2021

  Review: My child was in the 3s program at CBE ECC and had a very positive experience. They did (I feel) the best that they could during Covid, curtailing some aspects of the program and requiring masks, requiring daily health scans via app, etc. We stayed open all year, no Covid-related closures, so no complaints from me on that score. Teacher/child ratio was unusually good (3 teachers 9 kids), again probably in part due to the pandemic. The program itself I found very good -- morning to lunch was a rich preschool curriculum (gym time, art time, music time, group class activities, etc); then the afternoon seemed more like a daycare with lunch at noon, then rest/quiet time, then play-on-your-own time, then pickup. The teachers were very kind and nurturing. My child was very happy there, looked forward to it every morning, made some good friends, grew a lot, and we look forward to the 4s/PreK program there next year. Facility amenities: What would you change about the program? Not much -- I have some minor opinions but doesn't everyone? I'm not an expert; teachers seemed to know what they were doing, and my child had a very positive experience. Is there anything you would like to add about how the school handled the pandemic? CBE ECC required masks for all kids and staff at all times except for eating; they required a monthly PCR test starting in January 2021; and they generally played it medium-conservative and in line with CDC/NYS guidelines and the best practices at other preschools. I personally hope and wish that the kids can go mask-free next year if disease rates in NYC stay very low; but I understand that many factors are in play and that a mask-free classroom in 2021-22 may not yet be possible. Overall, CBE ECC stayed open all last year; nobody in our classroom ever got sick; and that was the most important thing!

• Bat Mitzvah Venues/restaurants

  July 2021

  We held my son's party in the ballroom at CBE which when decorated looked great and is big enough for everyone, including a few games for kids. It's reasonable financially but there are some quirks (the ovens didn't actually work in the kitchen, so food could be prepped there, but not heated...) (May 2021 review)

• 2s program for the fall?

  July 2021

  We send our son to CBE in Park Slope (Congregation Beth Elohim), their preschool (the ECC) is open to anyone. We have been extremely happy there! The teachers are just wonderful! However, their cutoff is September so your kid would have to be 2 by September to enroll. (January 2021 review)

• Welcome to the NEW 2018 Kids Group!

  July 2021

  Our son attends preschool at CBE in Park Slope and we are really happy there. We were debating what to do given Covid but it's worked out well so far. (December 2020 review)

• Welcome to the NEW 2018 Kids Group!

  July 2021

  I. is following in her sister's footsteps at CBE (Congregation Beth Elohim) this year. Their program was soooo good for our oldest, and . already seeing the positive impact with our wild child #2. (December 2020 review)

• 4's

  July 2021

  We are very happy CBE 3's parents so far. They seem extremely solid on covid prevention protocols, getting the tots to all wear masks all day (without stress or coercion), and our daughter seems truly happy in the program, she likes the teachers and the other kids, she's already making some good friends, etc. And we like what they're learning and doing. There are just 9 kids and 3 teachers in her pod/class -- an unusually good ratio, probably not sustainable for CBE longterm but we are so grateful they're doing it this way for 2020-21. (November 2020 review)

• 4's

  July 2021

  Our older daughter graduated CBE last year and our younger one is in the 3s full day program now. They both love it, and we’ve been very impressed with CBE’s ability to safely stay open full time during COVID. They do daily temperature checks and spend as much time outdoors in Prospect Park as possible. All kids wear masks except during lunch and rest time. Classrooms have also remained small, and they still do art, music, etc (basically feels like a normal preschool but with COVID adjustments). (November 2020 review)

• Review from the 2019–2020 Daycare, Preschool, Pre-K, and K Survey

  July 2021

  Review: ECC is an incredibly warm and gentle environment with such respect and understanding for the needs of young children. It is a place where kids learn to thoughtfully collaborate and work together and where the passions of the kids inform the curriculum. The proximity to the park allows for outdoor time and the opportunity to work with natural materials. The teachers have such awareness and insights into each child and their individual strengths, challenges and needs. Kids move towards independence and gain important social and emotional skills. Plus they have two large gyms for kids to run around. The art program is phenomenal and they have found creative ways to continue the program and the music program during the pandemic. In pre-covid years, they offered swimming and movement in their schedule. Parents are sent daily emails with pictures and a summary of the days events. These emails are a helpful tool to start a conversation with your child about their day. We've been incredibly impressed with their thoughtful development and implementation of Covid policies. Amenities offered: In previous years, there have been early morning and after school options. Due to the pandemic this year is different. They have a small roof but because of the proximity to the park, they are often outdoors. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Swimming for half day students.

• Review from the 2019–2020 Daycare, Preschool, Pre-K, and K Survey

  July 2021

  Review: Open 5 days a week. They overhauled the classrooms so the windows all open and there's a sink in every classroom. On the other hand, they require the preschoolers to hold each others hands on outside trips rather than grab a rope. Love that they send photos daily - cringe slightly at some of the not-so-socially-distant interactions depicted. Overall very happy we chose this place.

• CBE?

  July 2021

  Hi!! We are in the 11am Monday/Tuesday Tots class and haven't had any issues with naps. She normally naps later in the day, so it ends up working out nicely to have lunch and then go down for her (short) nap around 2pm. Btw, our daughter loves the program and coming back from holiday break, was literally trying to knock the door down on Monday to get in because she missed it so much! (February 2020 review)

• CBE?

  July 2021

  We’re in the 11-12:30 class on Thursday/Friday and love it!! Normally my daughter also naps around 12 but she loves school so much I find it’s easy to push it a little later on those days. (February 2020 review)

• Baby swim classes at CBE

  July 2021

  For anyone not working [my daughter] and I started the baby swim classes at CBE today. And she loved it. Monday’s at 9.30am for 6months - 1yr. You don’t have to be a member and classes are $25. The water is warm enough and classes are fun with songs and toys. There was just two of us this week and it’s new so wanted to spread the word! https://cbebk.shulcloud.com/aquatics/parent-child-class (November 2019 review)

• CBE?

  July 2021

  [Our daughter] (19 months) is also in the Tots on the Move program at CBE currently and we are also considering the 2’s program next year (she’s in the Monday & Tuesday, 11:30am group). TBH, I just haven’t had time to focus on applying for next year, since I feel like we just finished applying for this year! We would love to meet more families! We joined the temple earlier this year and love being a part of the community. (November 2019 review)

• CBE?

  July 2021

  My 3yo is currently at CBE and I'm planning to enroll my son (16 mos) next year. We love it!. I took [him] to the toddler drop in this week and he liked it so we'll definitely be back over the cold months. (November 2019 review)

• preschool/nursery part time options

  July 2021

  We are going to sign [my son] up for this toddler program at CBE. We are keeping our nanny full time. This is just a socialization class. It's exactly what you mentioned, [member]. https://cbebk.org/early-childhood-center-preschool/babies-and-toddlers/ Terrific Twos is an introduction to the routines of preschool where children can experience playtime, snack, rest, etc. Children work in small groups, negotiate transitions, and make choices in a fully-equipped preschool classroom. Separation is dealt with in a gradual manner. Adults leave the room when the child is ready and remain in the building. I don't believe the Terrific Two's has any Jewish aspects, but the proper 2's, 3's and 4's does. There were a lot of non Jewish kids who go there, if that's a concern. We plan on sending [my son] to the 2's program at CBE but not until September 2020. My 5 year old went there and we loved it. (August 2019 review)

• preschool/nursery part time options

  July 2021

  Our older one attended preschool at Beth Elohim, and it was just the best place for her. It's really a terrific program. She was there at 3+4. They've since added some 2s program. [My younger daughter] is too young -- they follow the school year, so we're off by three weeks, and need four days/week. However, I do think they will take kids who turn 2 in January for their transition program, which is a few hours, a few days a week. I hear the preK Hebrew classes are full, but that there's room in the others. They do touch on Jewish holidays, but you don't have to be JEwish to enroll. It's all Bank Street philosophy, if you're familiar with it. We did try to see if they'd take [my younger daughter] for this year, but they won't let us sneak in. (August 2019 review)

• 2019-2020 Year Review

  July 2021

  We have loved CBE for our 3-year old. It's a play-based, child-led curriculum which is really fun and let's the children pick the "theme" for the semester and focus learning around that theme. For example, my child's class did a pizza shop and learned about shapes, cooking, money, etc all based on this pizza shop theme. We have three children and have now tried out several nursery schools/ preschools in the area and CBE has been hands-down the best school for us. The teachers are loving, supportive and great with communication. We would definitely send our child there again and will be sending our youngest son once he's able to attend. … About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours, Great indoor gym spaces and swimming pool … What would you change? We'd love for CBE to be a UPK center/ school!

• 2019-2020 Year Review

  July 2021

  Review: We love CBE! Our daughter started in the Tots program, then did 3s and 4s. She has thrived while at CBE and loves her school. We feel lucky to have been a part of the CBE community. … About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours …

• 2019-2020 Year Review

  July 2021

  Review: We've loved our first year (2's program) at CBE. The staff is very engaged and creative. The building and facilities are great. It's a real community and we've enjoyed getting to know the other families. Highly recommend! … About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours … What would you change? An earlier start to the school year. Mid September is late and put a crunch on our childcare needs.

• 2019-2020 Year Review

  July 2021

  Review: She loved her teachers and the friends she made, swimming, art classes, cooking and the themes that emerged in each class like doctors and photography. I would definitely send her there again. … About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours, Swimming pool, two different play gyms … What would you change? I felt the phase-in periods took too long, but I understand why they go slowly. Not every child adjusts so quickly at the beginning of the school year.

• 2019-2020 Year Review

  July 2021

  Review: The program is wonderful—child lead nurturing and thoughtful. If I had it to do over again yes I would send my kids there and I would send them there for longer earlier. … About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours … What would you change? I do wish they had outdoor space.

• Preschool recommendations for almost 2s?

  July 2021

  The Early Childhood Center at Congregation Beth Elohim will take children that will turn two in that calendar year. (You don't have to be Jewish to go there!) My younger one is in the 3's program now and my older one was there for two years of preschool. The school is fantastic! (December 2019 review)

• Rainy day activities for two 9 month olds!

  July 2021

  At that age my kids both loved the tots drop-in center at CBE, it's Tuesday through Friday mornings: https://cbebk.org/early-childhood-center-preschool/babies-and-toddlers/ (November 2019 review)

• Review from the 2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Project-based Inquiry Learning with two teachers in every classroom. Well organized with specialists such as art, music, swim, library. Curriculum was solid and teachers are highly experienced and qualified. Proximity to the park was a plus and the facility felt like a real school. DETAILS: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours, Pool, large indoor gym, sensory room, several classrooms What you would change: Align school calendar more with public school calendar.

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  My daughter has thrived here for the past 2 years (3s and 4s). The curriculum is child-led and the teachers show so much respect for the kids' ideas. There is an amazing art teacher that they see at least once a week and a wonderful music teacher, too. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours What would you change? I wish it went through all of elementary school!

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  My daughter joined the 2s program (5 days a week, 9-12), and she loves it! The school is a wonderful, welcoming community, and being in older building, has a ton of different spaces for activities (an art room, a gym, a sensory room etc..). While the school is a part of CBE, and Jewish tradition and values are promoted, the temple is reformed and all are welcome. I love hearing my daughter tell me about all of her friends, her day's activities, her teachers and the songs she has learned. The teachers send daily emails with recaps of their day and photos. I highly recommend this pre-school. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Great program for little ones to start exploring. Teachers and parents are very involved and the school plans many social events. About the facility: Has early morning hours What would you change? Would love it if they had an outdoor space.

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  A warm play based, child led program. This is my son’s 3rd year at the school (he’s in the 4’s) and he’s adored everything. The teachers are really special, communicative and know my son well. We’ve been so happy. The gym space is great for running around, there is swimming once a week for half the year and yoga the other half, and the art program is incredible. The only thing we loathe is having to move on to another school for kindergarten. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  We feel so fortunate that our daughter has attended preschool at CBE. The program is play-based, the teachers are very well-qualified and experienced educators, in addition to being warm and compassionate. They clearly understand and observe the kids very closely, and share nuanced observations with us, which we were impressed and comforted by, as this was the first time our daughter was in a group care setting. They have taken things like separation anxiety, toilet training accidents etc. in stride without us ever feeling shamed, which I know is not always the case in all preschools. Our daughter absolutely loves going to school, has made new friends there, and has learnt a lot of 'academic' things, in addition to social-emotional (she holds her questions to the end of a story and raises her hand to ask - magic!). FWIW, we're not Jewish, and have always felt fully welcome and comfortable. Your kids will come home singing Debbie's super-cute Shabbat songs though :) About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours What would you change? Nothing at all.

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  My daughter attended CBE ECC for the 2s program and dual language 3s and will be in dual language 4s next year. We have had a wonderful experience. The teachers have been attentive, responsive and warm. We've appreciated the intelligence with which they've approached our daughter's development and have been impressed by the quality of teachers. In addition, the school offers yoga, swim, music and art. The art teacher is phenomenal and creates interactive, wildly creative projects that my daughter loves. She also loves swimming and has developed a comfort level in the water thanks to her experience. The dual language Hebrew program has also been terrific - my daughter's has built a strong Hebrew comprehension and now sings songs in Hebrew, even though we do not speak Hebrew at home. Last year she attended early bird and aftercare, which allowed us for 8-6 coverage. We have also appreciated the efforts the school makes into nurturing a community spirit - from potlucks, to shabbat dinners, to holiday parties throughout the year, we have built connections with the other families in the school that have been lovely. The administration is thoughtful, responsive and kind and despite it being a big school, it feels like a community. The only caveats I'd mention is that the school closes for Jewish holidays and public school holidays - we've had to supplement with camps, etc... which took a fair bit of adjustment when we came there from a daycare environment. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours What would you change? Fewer days off. Also, elevators - some of the classrooms require climbing a few sets of stairs

• Review from the 2018/2019 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  you and see the teaching going on through play as my child bring home what she has learned. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours What would you change? nothing

• 2018 Summer Camp Reviews

  July 2021

  Age of child: 6 yo Summer 2018 Review: This was our daughter's third year at CBE day camp. She loves everything about it - the counselors, the array of activities on Mon, Wed, Fri (e.g., gymnastics, circus arts, nature walks, swimming, arts and crafts), and the fabulous field trips on Tuesdays and Thursdays (e.g., Riis Beach, bowling, ice skating). We love the fact that there is a large pool in the building, that it's a block from Prospect Park for outdoor activities, and that it's so well run.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  My son has really enjoyed the 3's program at CBE ECC and he'll be going back for their 4's year (rather than UPK elsewhere). He's been a big fan of the activities, like swimming and yoga, plus the usual music and art; as parents, we really like that they seem to get a good amount of free play time as well. The school is expensive, but what isn't? They are slightly administratively disorganized, but I would imagine that it's about the same amount that most preschools are. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Our experience has been fairly mediocre. There are a lot of issues with the administration, especially related to communications with parents, but also professional development for teachers. While some teachers are wonderful, they also have some very weak teachers that have been on staff for many years. The classroom materials are pretty old and sparse. (Some teachers bring in toys for their classrooms that they find on the street.). It is a large preschool, and children do not have a uniformly wonderful experience - very classroom/teacher dependent. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  My child was in the dual-language (Hebrew) program at Congregation Beth Elohim for 3s and Pre-K. It's an exceptional program with amazing, caring teachers. My son speaks and understands Hebrew despite us not speaking it in the home. He was also at CBE for non-dual-language 2s and that was good too but dual-language is where they shine. About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  I love that their curriculum is student-led and play-based. They have a wonderful art and music curriculum, too. About the facility: Has early morning hours What would you change? I wish they provided meals and healthier snacks. It's also a tough program for working parents despite early bird and extended day options.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  It's a very sweet program. It has a Jewish focus, but there are certainly non-Jewish families that send their children there. One downside is that the school is closed for all Jewish holidays (more than the public schools are) and the school year ends significantly earlier than public schools). About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  The dual language program is amazing. My child was speaking confident Hebrew in Pre-K. Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours. I would add better after-school programs for Pre-K and generally provide more of a community feel.

• Review from the 2017/2018 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Adore the program. Teachers are warm and fantastic. Very happy at dual language program. Tom the art teacher is an incredible bonus. Plus the gym has lots of space for kids to run around. Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours. (April 2018 review)

• Thanks, and summary of drop-off playgroup responses

  July 2021

  There's a terrific tots program at congregation beth Elohim that caregivers stay in the building but is like a gentle separation class I believe. My older son took the art class they offer which was an hour I think, and some kids we know did the other program which was slightly longer. (October 2017 review)

• Thanks, and summary of drop-off playgroup responses

  July 2021

  Try CBE. They have a variety of programs for young kids, drop in and not. I believe they'll start up again in the late fall after the holidays. It's cbebk.com (October 2017 review)

• [PSPTweens] Bat mitzvah spaces

  July 2021

  And, I know it's weird to do a bat mitzvah in a church, but Old First also rents space, as does Beth Elohim. (July 2017 review)

• [PSPTweens] Bat mitzvah spaces

  July 2021

  CBE has a nice space too (July 2017 review)

• [PSPTweens] Bat mitzvah spaces

  July 2021

  Beth Elohim- For 100 people you could probably just use the lounge downstairs, which is less pricey. (July 2017 review)

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program Name: Ha'Geemnasia Hebrew Summer Camp at CBE Review: Kids got to attend all the trips that the regular CBE camp attends (2x/week), learn and/or practice Hebrew, and take a summer-long "virtual trip" to Israel, learning about the different cities, environments, people, etc. I appreciated the fact that my child got to learn something and experience a new culture while still having a typical neighborhood summer day camp experience. My kid can now count to 10 in Hebrew, knows basic greetings, and sings a bunch of Israeli songs. Lunch provided on "Pizza Wednesday" which was a big hit. Swimming 3x/week. Kabbalat Shabbat for the kids on Fridays, which parents can attend. Small class size was fantastic, since my kid is in a large group all year at school. Good hours: 9am-5pm; early bird and late bird (8am-6pm) provided for an extra fee. Warm and welcoming counselors. If you could change anything, what would it be? Nothing. When I saw the list of all the fun activities and trips they were taking, I wanted to sign myself up for summer camp. :-) Age of child: 5 Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Our son liked camp because he's a funloving and outgoing guy, but we were very unimpressed with the lackadaisical, irresponsible and uninspired camp counselors. We were also very unimpressed with the camp administrator, Bobbie Finkelstein who was unresponsive and stand-offish to our concerns. If you could change anything, what would it be? I'd hire new management and institute a policy that prioritized hiring personable and motivated counselors. Age of child: 5 Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  My kid adored the counselors, as well as swim, gymnastics, choices (gardening, Legos). The field trips were great. Enrollment dropped significantly in August and her group was combined with another, and that was hard for my child to acclimate to. If you could change anything, what would it be? Better communication with parents via email. Age of child: 5 Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  This is my 7 year old sons third year at CBE, he loves it more every year. He loves the trips, being around best friends from school all day and sports. It was mg 5 year old daughters first year. I feel the days are too long for kids that young, it goes until 5pm. She's had a great time and loves cooking and gymnastics and has a lot of neighborhood friends in her group as welll. If you could change anything, what would it be? I would make an optional 3pm pick up for younger campers. Would also make an after lunch rest period for campers younger than rising 2nd graders, I think they need it. Age of child: 5 and 7 Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Kids loved this camp, I am not exactly sure why, but they just had a jolly time all summer. Really felt back to basics. Have fun, keep moving. Age of child: 5 Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2017 PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  My daughter loved CBE. She was a little wary at first, as this was her first camp experience, but really grew to love the camp, her counselors and new friends. I loved that there was so much outside time and active play, including swimming. She really loved the field trips as well and I think taking 2 per week helped her get more comfortable on a school bus. Age of child: 4.5 (entering Kindergarten) Based on a Summer 2017 experience

• Review from the 2016/2017 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Type: Pre-K Review: Fantastic. Warm caring teachers. Engaging, daughter loved going - made many friends.

• Review from the 2016/2017 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Type: Preschool About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours Review: He had a wonderful experience. The teachers are warm, supportive and provide excellent structure. He developed basic writing skills and there was no pressure from the teachers to get to a "certain level." He made great friends and generally loved school. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? More time outdoors. There is no outdoor space but they have 2 indoor gyms and they do swim class (pool is in the building) for half the year. However, with such proximity to the park I would have liked them to venture outside more. This is a very minor point as overall we LOVED CBE and my younger child starts there in Fall.

• Review from the 2016/2017 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Type: Preschool About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours Review: Cbe was a wonderful introduction for my son's first year of school. The teachers are warm, thoughtful and patient. They created a wonderful curriculum led by the children themselves. They blend the best parts of a number of teaching methods. My son is a rambunctious and active child and they really embraced his spirit. His language skills and social skills exploded and I'm continually amazed by how he has learned to communicate and work effectively with others. In addition to his regular teachers the art program is very special. They also have music, yoga, swimming and celebrate the sabbath and Jewish holidays in a fun and inclusive way whether your child is Jewish or not. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? Outdoor space would be a great extr though they do take kids outside for walks and to the park. Plus they have two big indoor gyms so the kids have lots of time during the day to be active. My son came home thoroughly exhausted everyday so there was no lack of physical activity.

• Review from the 2016/2017 PSP Daycare, Preschool, PreK, Kindergarten Survey

  July 2021

  Type: Pre-K About the facility: Has afterschool options, Has early morning hours, Has a pool / kids get lessons part of the year; has a room for "library" , two gyms, an art room. Review: It's a pretty typical preschool - play based - with some outstanding and some not so great teachers. There are a few gems. My son loved all the play, and the wonderful music with Debbie, and the creative spirit of his preK room. What would you change about the program, if anything, and why? The program has the potential to be great but seems like the administration lacks the interest - i.e.communications are minimal. Snacks are processed stuff (would fresh fruit or fewer ingredients be so hard?) and most importantly quality of teachers is inconsistent. My son - over 3 years - had a few truly outstanding early childhood educations, but a few mediocre ones as well. I wish there was more consistency. I also think the program could incorporate more outdoors and nature into daily activities.

• Re: All day pre-school recs?

  July 2021

  Congregation Beth Elohim (CBE) still has a few open spots in their 2s program for next year. The regular day goes until 3pm with extended day until 6 (and they also offer early bird in the morning). CBE has one of the longest running, most well respected preschools in the neighborhoods with lines around the block for registration. Their program is child lead and play based using pedagogy from Bank Street. The director has been there over 30 years and their teachers are beyond amazing. I have one graduate (now in 1st grade), one child in the current 3s program and one who will be entering their 2s program next year. Their focus is social and emotional development as well as more academic skills as the kids get older (numbers, alphabet, writing etc) and are particularly great at communicating with parents. They offer many weekly specialists: yoga, swimming, art and library. We have had experience with other highly regarded preschools in the neighborhood and nothing comes even in the range of what CBE has offered our kids. Also, even though it is at a synagogue and does include Jewish programming, the preschool classes are diverse in terms of religious affiliation, so it should definitely be on anyone's list even if they aren't Jewish. (April 2017 review)

• Summer Camp Survey 2016

  July 2021

  Age of child: 8 year old and 4 year old Review: Our kids attended CBE camp for a few weeks this summer. They have early bird drop off between 8-9am where the kids hang out in the gym with a few counselors. My older son loved that part, though my 4 year old found it overwhelming. Camp itself was great. They take trips twice a week which both kids really liked - trips included Adventureland, a sail on the Clearwater and a visit to the zoo. The other three days are based out of the building - they have swimming, gymnastics, music, sports and more. My 8 year old had an overnight at camp which he really loved. They watched movies, swam after dinner and stayed up late. It was his first overnight ever and he was nervous leading up to it, but really loved it and is now talking about overnight camp. My four year old really loved his counselors (his counselor teaches at the pre-school during the year and she was excellent), and he seemed really happy at the end of the day. He also got exposure to lots of activities. My older son attended a specialty camp at CBE for one week this summer called Makers Space. They made art projects out of recyclables - it was really creative. I was sad that they didn't have swimming during specialty camp though. Overall I think this is a great local camp option with lots of flexibility. What would you change about the program, if anything? I would love to get feedback about how the kids are doing or have an open house where I could meet the counselors.

• Summer Camp Survey 2016

  July 2021

  Age of child: 5 Review: He LOVED this place. Normally our child is not one for telling us about his day. We ask, "what happened at school today?" And he replies "I don't remember." But at CBE, we ask and he can't stop telling us all the fantastic things he did! What's more, he is normally fearful of swimming and was dreading that part of camp. Yet, at CBE it is his favorite activity. I don't know how they do it, but they have made him adore his everyday. What would you change about the program, if anything? Our only minor frustration was logistical disorganization. Sometimes each counselor would have a different answer to the same question, or they wouldn't send home all the logistical information we needed, or they would forget to apply sunscreen as they had promised. It would be great to improve this. But this is minor compared with the great joy our kid got from his time there.

• Summer Camp Survey 2016

  July 2021

  Age of child: 4 Review: I love that our child was able to spend more time this summer with her preschool friends. But it was really expensive, and for such a short time -- there's still 6 weeks between the end of camp and the start of preschool. If the older kids' camps can run longer, why not the preschool camp as well? Other Jewish camps in the area charge similar prices, but those prices include two addition weeks. What would you change about the program, if anything? The actual program itself was fine.

• Beth Elohim pre-school

  July 2021

  In short, we love the ECC at CBE, and continue to send our children, despite it being a significant schlep for us (in Windsor Terrace) to get there. For me, it's the combination of very skilled, well-supported, loving and SMART educators coupled with their philosophy that values play and creativity that makes this school unique. We've sent our children to less expensive, more convenient preschools in the past but find there is something unparalleled offered at CBE which keeps our kids enrolled. (February 2016 review)

• Beth Elohim pre-school

  July 2021

  We have been extremely happy with CBE's preschool program. We also travel from Windsor Terrace but it has been worth it given the great experience our son has had. Feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss further. (February 2016 review)

• Review submitted via 2015 Daycare Survey

  July 2021

  We have had an excellent experience so far this year at CBE. The teachers and administrators are welcoming and my son loves school. There is great communication with the parents and the school creates a nice sense of community through events/activities.

• Review Submitted via Fall 2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: Garfield Street TIME: Full Dats, 5 days/week AGE: 3-4 years REVIEW: Our child is in the dual-language Hebrew program. The teachers are fantastic. They really know each child, what makes them tick, how to encourage them as they play through their day, and how to ensure they're working on the life-skills they need. They are so welcoming in talking through any issues that arise, either at home or at school, and happily brainstorm solutions -- we had a rough early transition to the school, and the teachers were great in helping our child through that. The communication between teachers and parents is stellar. While there are no outdoor spaces, the two indoor gyms offer plenty of room to play. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend WOULD YOU DO IT AGAIN? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via Fall 2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Note: this member reviewed this facility in a prior survey/year PROGRAM: Garfield TIME: 3 1/2 days AGE: 2-3 years REVIEW: The teachers are really warm, kind and engaged with the children. It is a child-based program, so no set curriculum, rather the activities are centered around the kids' interests. The facility is pretty good for NYC - though no outdoor space, there is a gym, an art studio, a library, music classes, yoga, etc. I've been very pleasantly surprised at how easily my son handled the transition, largely thanks to the wonderful atmosphere his teachers (Christine and Michelle) have created in the school. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend WOULD YOU DO IT AGAIN? Absolutely

• Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Camp Ha'Geemnasia at CBE Location: CBE Age of Child: 5 Likes: The singing and dancing were fun. What would you change? More attention to the needs of younger children (eg have activities they can do when they arrive in the mornings. There weren't initially and drop-offs were chaotic). More time outdoors! They are so close to the park, though outdoor time was "optional" which meant that for my child, she often didn't see the outdoors for 8 hours. Shorter days for the younger children. 9-5 (in Hebrew immersion) is long and hard. Would you send your child(ren) again? No Do you recommend? Do NOT recommend Do you have any other information to add? The counselors were sweet and kind but the whole operation felt disorganized--they often didn't know basic information (eg where exactly the field trips were going). Their enthusiasm and gentleness counted for a lot, but it felt that they were often not so well informed themselves, which left me feeling less than confident.

• Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 5 Likes: Convenient, fun, interesting, variety of activities What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend

• Review from 2015 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 4 Likes: The kids got instructional swim three times a week. They were able to play in the park several times a week or at the water table just outside the building. We also had great teachers. My daughter got to be with some of her friends from school. What would you change? It would have been nice for her to go on trips but she was in a class where the other kids weren't old enough. Would you send your child(ren) again? No Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? This camp is usually just open to kids who attend the school. Occasionally, there are exceptions made.

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: 5 days/week Child’s Age: 3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: We have sent both of our children to Congregation Beth Elohim Early Childhood Center (ECC). My son attended for three years and my daughter will be starting her third year next September. Our experience has been wonderful. Facing the possibility of sending our son to preeschool for the first time, we worried about so many things. Soon, however, our worries were put to rest. The teachers were warm and, at the same time, extremelly professional. They took the time to understand the personality and needs of the children, and to create a classrom in which each kid is nurtured to thrive. As parents, we were made a part of the learning process, with very helpful summaries about the day, notes and positive interaction. Each year thereafter, our kids have enjoyed the same consistent and exceptional experience. In the past two years, my daughter had the joy of learning with Christine and Michele, and with Jen and Kath. They made it possible for her and her classmates to truly flourish, to gain confidence, and to learn so many different things, all in a safe and vibrant ambiance. We have also availed, at different periods, of the early bird and after school programs, and of the mini camps and summer camps. They are staffed with great care, and have been a source of peace of mind for us. It also should be noted that ECC counts with a stellar administration. They are always available and always ready to help. They know the children and truly care about them. Along with the teachers and other staff members, they have created a great program, that we highly recommend. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: Wide Range of Schedule Options Child’s Age: 2-3 years3-4 years4-5 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: My daughter attended CBE for three years and had a wonderful preschool experience. The teachers are well trained - many new recruits come from bank street and other top notch programs. And the many veteran teachers there are incredibly skilled and stay at the school. All of her teachers developed exciting curriculum that emerged from the children's interests while also teaching them valuable preschool skills. When she was in the 3-4s class her teachers developed a unit about pulleys because the students became fascinated with an old elevator while they were creating a map of the school building. My daughter wowed an elevator full of strangers at the airports explaining to her younger brother the physics of the elevator pulley and gears. In her 4s-5s class she studied machines and the class built and planted an outside garden. On the way home from school, my daughter and her friends would point out and name all of the flowers in the spring gardens around park slope. The teachers were incredibly supportive of the student's social emotional growth and paid close attention to creating a positive culture in the classroom. We had regular communication with teacher and administrators in person, by email and phone. The conferences we had with teachers were rich in information and observations about our child's development and provided us with useful feedback and ideas on how to support our child. Recently the school purchased ipads for every teacher and parents receive a daily email with photos and a description of what happened in class each day. This was tremendously valuable for engaging my daughter in questions about her day and kept me feeling informed about her experience. The school holds regular events for families allowing the community to grow beyond the classroom. We made many family friends we will keep for a long time. Lastly, we are not a jewish family and felt very at home at CBE - my daughter greatly enjoyed the jewish curriculum. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Early Education Center, Congregation Beth Elohem Program: Length of time: 5 Full day Child’s Age: 4-5 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility,

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Dual language ,4s Length of time: 5 full days Child’s Age: 4-5 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: The teachers were great - high quality, well trained and very kind and nurturing. The curriculum is child led and thoughtfully facilitated by the teachers. My 4 year old learnt a huge amount this year - he was particularly excited to do units on pets/animals and trees. He would come home and tell us all about carbon dioxide and guide dogs etc. All this learning was carried out in a fun, gentle environment. We received daily emails with photos about what they had done. Our one compliant would be that the school year doesn't start until a week or 2 after all the other schools in the neighborhood. This is of course in addition to all the September/October Jewish holidays, for which CBE is also closed. These holiday closures are of course to be expected, as although one doesn't need to be Jewish to attend, this is a after all a Jewish institution. However the late start is really tricky as there are no camp options running that late in September and for working parents this can be an expensive and challenging couple of weeks to find coverage for. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: 5 Full Days Child’s Age: 3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: Would you recommend? Would you send your child again?

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: From 2 mornings to full time preK Child’s Age: Type of facility: older than 5Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: We have just completed 6 years at the Early Childhood Center (ECC) at Congregation Beth Elohim. Both of my children went through the program and we are so sad to say goodbye. I loved all of my childrens' teachers over the years. All are extremely educated, forward thinking and caring while still instilling caring, loving support for the little toddlers-preschoolers. ECC is a Jewish Preschool but all children/families are welcome and it's a wonderful nurturing environment. Both of my children were well prepared for the transition to a public kindergarten and in some cases were academically ahead of their piers who attended different programs. We continue to be supportive and active members at CBE and are sorry that the ECC is now behind us. Would you recommend? Recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Tots on the Move (2 year olds) Length of time: Part days, 3 days/week Child’s Age: 2-3 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: I loved this program. The teacher, Mary, was kind, caring, and super good with the kids. The program had lots of interesting activities for the children, including art, music and reading. The program is intended to get 2 year olds ready for preschool next year. The parent/caregiver stays on the premise during class. There is also a large indoor playroom with plenty of space for all the kids to run around. My daughter was very shy in the beginning, but by the end, she was loving school, talking about Mary and all the other kids every night. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Dual Language 4s Length of time: Full time (9am-3pm, 5 days) Child’s Age: 3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: My daughter was enrolled at CBE for two consecutive years and we have been incredibly pleased with the experience. During the 2013-2014 school year she was in a 5 day a week, regular classroom and we were very impressed with the teachers' attention to curriculum and activities that highlighted activities meant to advance age appropriate developmental milestones while also having fun. This past year 2014-2015 our daughter was in the Hebrew-English Dual Language classroom. In addition to stellar instruction, the level of Jewish and Hebrew programming was further developed. Both sets of teachers created warm and inviting classrooms, highlighted social skills and the creation of a true community of caring friends and truly loved and challenged our daughter. This past year out daughter who is naturally rather shy and soft spoken had a slight issue with a friend who was more physical and verbal than her. The teachers noticed it was an issue (at the same time that we did) and helped, together with us, our daughter navigate the situation and learn how to stick up for herself. During parent teacher conferences the feedback we got from the teachers (both years) was spot on in terms of how we perceived areas where our daughter excelled and areas where she could use some work - the teachers truely knew her very well. My daughter did a 2s program in a different city (before we moved to Brooklyn) and CBE was a world of difference from her previous program which was also meant ot be "one of the best." It truely made a lover of learning out of our young daughter. CBE provided more than just an incredible early leraning experience for our daughter, it also helped us create a strong and supportive community of like-minded parents. Something that is invaluable. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Note: This member has reviewed this facility in a prior year. Length of time: 5 half-days Child’s Age: 2-3 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: We had an amazing experience with CBE last year for my 3 year old son. The teachers were incredible--high energy, creative, and attentive. They sent emails with photos/videos at the end of each day about what the kids did, which was great and made it easier to have conversations with our son about what was going on at school. They were great about potty training (didn't force it but encouraged us when they had a sense our son was ready to be out of diapers), were great about teaching social skills, and helpful when we came to them with the occasional question about how our son was doing socially. All around it was a wonderful experience. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Full day fours Length of time: full days, 5 days a week Child’s Age: 4-5 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: I sent both of my kids to CBE for a total of 5 years between the two of them. Each class experience was fabulous. The teachers were excellent...caring, communicative, super creative and extremely energetic. If I could have created teachers for my kids I would not have created them any different than they actually were. The facility is large but warm. The director and teacher were always available to discuss any issues. Both of my kids had some special needs, one fairly severe, and they worked hand in hand with me and the therapists to provide the best possible experience. Both of my kids excelled and had wonderful experiences at the school. CBE teaches some Jewish curriculum (celebrates the holidays and shabbat) but it's very inclusive. I am not jewish and never felt singled out or excluded. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: Full Child’s Age: 2-3 years3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: This is an amazing program for toddlers. The teachers are hands on and the small class size enables the children to get a lot of adult attention. The children are not confined to the class all day and there is a lot of movement throughout the day be it within the building (going to music or either one of the 2 gyms or swimming) as well as a nice amount of time spent outdoors going on walks and play trips to the park. There is a great emphasis on socialization and allowing the children to engage in things which interest them. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Terrific Twos Length of time: 2 days/wk Child’s Age: 1-2 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: The program was a great transitional year before my son is eligible for regular pre school. Mary, the teacher, is fabulous, and creates lots of age appropriate activities (art, play, singing, etc) The calendar is very abbreviated - the semester started in October, had a winter break, didn't run for much of Jan/Feb, and ended in early June. Overall it's a positive experience for 2s preparing for preschool. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  CBE Early Childhood Center Program: Length of time: Full Time Child’s Age: 4-5 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: In both years that our son attended the ECC, his teachers were exactly what he needed. We couldn't have been happier. They were warm, nurturing, patient, firm, and fun. The emergent learning approach was new to us. Our son certainly thrived in it. Much time was spent teaching the children important social skills like sharing, taking turns, managing emotions, and doing kind things for others. We cannot speak to their ability to handle difficult situations, as we fortunately did not experience any major issues. I looked forward each afternoon to the daily email, with photos, from the teachers. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  CBE Early Childhood Center Program: Length of time: Full Days 5 days Child’s Age: 3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: The teachers and administration of CBE are remarkable. They take special attention with each kid. They do not "interview" the children - they believe that they are there to help the kids grow whatever stage they're in. And the growth is remarkable for each and every kid. The teachers are hands on and use practical learning to help advance theoretical learning. Our daughter grew socially and educationally. They're kind and caring and discipline with strength and love. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Hebrew dual language Length of time: Part day 5 days/week Child’s Age: 2-3 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachersThere is little/no parental involvement with the administration or running of the facility. REVIEW: We did not apply to the Hebrew immersion program, but that was the only spot we were offered (we are not members of the synagogue and thus at a slight disadvantage). Nonetheless, we very much enjoyed the program. Our son learned a lot of Hebrew, and loved his teachers. The program is play focused, but it provided him with the beginning structure (changing tasks, following rules etc) that he is going to need as school gets more academic. We are barely Jewish (1 parent who is half Jewish), and we did not feel uncomfortable being at the school, including in the Hewbrew immersion program. We did appreciate the "Jewish values" (learning about holidays and widely shared values like sharing) aspect of the curriculum. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  Length of time: Full days, part days, 3 days a week Child’s Age: 4-5 years Type of facility: older than 5Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: My daughter and son attended the Early Childhood Center at Beth Elohim for four years beginning with a two's program and finishing with a Pre-K program. They both had an incredible experiences and I can say without hesitation that the Beth Elohim ECC a wonderful school. They have vivid imaginations, are curious about learning and seem genuinely excited about the world they live in. We most certainly attribute this to their experiences in the ECC classrooms. Additionally, my daughter, who just completed kindergarten, was extremely well-prepared for elementary school. The team at the ECC is very approachable and we always knew we could reach out to the teachers and Center director. This support was a integral to making sure that my children always got the right help. Both of my children made wonderful friends at the ECC and loved Pre-K. Their teachers nurtured their interests and encouraged them in areas they shied away from. The school is big enough to have a myriad of great facilities such as two gyms and a pool, and small enough to feel like a warm, nurturing community. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Review Submitted via 2014-2015 Daycare/Preschool Survey

  July 2021

  ECC's DayCamp at CBE Program: Length of time: 5 days/week Child’s Age: 3-4 years Type of facility: Privately run daycare/preschool with multiple classes and teachers REVIEW: CBE's ECC Daycamp has been a total success for my 3 1/2 year old. The "counselors" are in fact highly skilled educators from the ECC school. Not only have they have been warm, loving, fun and engaging, they are _knowledgeable_ about child development and structure the day according to the needs of 3-4 year olds. This includes a good amount of unstructured but supervised playtime where the children can explore art, imaginative play, constructing projects--all while learning how to negotiate peer interactions...and Have Fun! It's been a terrific summer for our daughter. Would you recommend? Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: Tots on the move Length of Time: 90 minutes 2 days/week Child's Age: 1-2 years Review: My son loves this program and going to school. His teacher Mary is excellent and has an ability to make 2 year olds behave as students, follow directions, and participate in the classroom. The class is about 9 students and is structured the same each class (free play, singing, art project, snack, story time, and gym play) and the kids respond very well to the structure. It's a great prep program for pre school for 2 year olds and I am very happy with the program. I do wish the class would be an hour longer. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Length of Time: Full time Child's Age: 2-3 years Review: The program is terrific. The teachers are very loving, thoughtful, professional and well-organized. We get daily class emails and photos from our daughter's teacher, and they are very responsive to us. The program follows best early childhood research. The days are well structured and the kids all seem to love it. The facilities are unparalleled. There are lots of different options -- half and full days, two, three and five days, early and late bird programs. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: 5 full days and 3 1/2 days Length of Time: Child's Age: 2-3 years4-5 years Review: Fantastic I'm a critical parent and am VERY pleased thus far with both classes my children are attending at the ECC. The teachers are true educators--knowledgeable about child development, keenly aware of potential difficulty with transitions and always in communication with parents (though not during the school day, when their attention--correctly--is on the children). The ONLY drawback I have is the late start to the school year. That said, I believe the quality of the days my children are there outweighs the somewhat diminished quantity of days school is open. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: n/a Length of Time: 5 part days Child's Age: 2-3 years Review: Our experience has been excellent so far; our child loves the school and his teachers, who bring new exciting things to the classroom each day. He loves the facility and the various gyms they go to, as well as the "extracurricular" activities (e.g., music, movement, cooking, etc.) We are so far extremely happy. Although the school has no outdoor space, on nice days the teachers have taken the children out for adventures, and this has not proven to be an issue for us or our child. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: Early Childhood Center Length of Time: Five Full Days Child's Age: 3-4 years Review: This is the second child that we have sent to this pre-school and there has definitely been a decline in our happiness with them in the past year. The administration is more difficult to work with, there are suddenly more spots open at the last minute, and general communication isn't great. We originally sent our children there because it was a small pre-school, would give them a base in Jewish education while helping them learn to socialize with their peers. We also liked that our children could learn to swim as one of the activities that they do on a weekly basis during one semester. While these base points continue to be executed, our second child was put in a class that was too young for her. The administration claimed that it was because she had never attended school before. The majority of the kids she met at their camp over the summer are next door in a class where the parents lobbied to stay together from last year. She now comes home with babyish behaviors that she had just finished outgrowing and we have had to go a number of rounds with the teachers on how to handle her rest time and pull-ups at rest time, which set her potty training back as well. However, we did finally work that out. We get emails daily to tell us about what the kids are doing during the day which helps us prompt conversations with our child. We have had one incident with another child that required a phone call from her teacher. It seemed that the teacher was more upset about it than the situation called for. The parent of the other child said that she had been told there might be an incident report write up and a meeting with the administration which seemed wholly unnecessary, considering the circumstances had everything to do with kids learning a specific socialization. I had thought the situation was very funny when the teacher told me about it. We have not gotten a lot of feedback about our child but we haven't had parent teacher conferences yet. In previous years, with the teachers of our other child, we had been able to have conversations more easily. This year, all parents received an email asking parents to only email about concerns. Additionally, we have been furious about their new afterschool payment policy, requiring us to pay in advance for the entire year if we think we'll be using it at all. As we do use it for one hour each day, there are some days we don't use it at all and still pay for it. It is frustrating to have them claim an hourly rate but have to pay everything in advance. If we didn't usually use afterschool and had an emergency, would we be able to use it? Our plan is to keep our child in the school one more year after this and then switch to a kindergarten but it is much more with gritted teeth than we would like. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Recommend with reservations Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: Old 4s-pre-k Length of Time: Full day, 5 days Child's Age: 4-5 years Review: Teachers are warm and the head teacher seems quite experienced. I had heard really good feedback on her before sending my daughter. Although the building is old and you can sense that walking through the hallways, the classrooms seem bright and cheerful. Swimming as an in school special is a big plus too. I like that the learning is project based (right now the children are learning about simple machines). I also appreciate that letters and numbers are explicitly taught. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely not

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: ECC/preschool Length of Time: full day 9-3 Child's Age: 3-4 years Review: I love Beth Elohim's preschool. All 3 of my kids have really thrived there. It was such a great investment. It is Jewish - they do celebrate all the holidays; it's a part of the curriculum. My older son spent 3 years at their preschool and he's so well prepared for kindergarden. Wish I could have kept all my kids here until college!! :-) Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Summer Camp Review

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 5 Likes: This is a Hebrew immersion camp. My child and I loved the program and the counselors, though the Hebrew was a bit overwhelming to him at first. It is a bit disorganized and communication between staff and parents could be better. What would you change? I would have a better orientation before the camp and daily emails to parents. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add?

• 2014 Summer Camp Review

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 7 Likes: She says the best thing was "Froze Fruits on Friday." We liked that there were trips only 2 days a week (instead of all 5), that they had a pool on site, and that they made good use of Prospect Park. The groups were small with very nice and consistent staff and leadership. What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add?

• 2014 Summer Camp Review

  July 2021

  Program: Preschool Day Camp Age of Child: 3 Likes: Structure, swimming, small groups, creative age appropriate activities, highly qualified, warm, engaged teachers What would you change? Healthier snacks Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add?

• 2014 Summer Camp Review

  July 2021

  Program: Preschool Camp Age of Child: 4 Likes: She loved swimming, playing outside, her counselors and the kids in her class. What would you change? Nothing! Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add?

• 2014 Summer Camp Review

  July 2021

  Program: Age of Child: 3 Likes: Everything, but especially: a large gym, swimming 2x per week, wonderful teachers and CITs, regular trips to Prospect Park. What would you change? Only the 4's take field trips. I think the 3's could probably handle an occasional field trip and would certainly enjoy them. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? No camp in August.

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Child's Age: 2-3 years Review: This is our first preschool experience and I couldn't be happier. The teachers are warm and bright and really seem to love their work. I like that it feels like school rather than a daycare -- it's bigger and the day is more highly structured. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• 2014 Daycare/Preschool PSP review

  July 2021

  Program: 2 Morning 2's Length of Time: 2 hours Thursdays and Friday mornings Child's Age: 2-3 years Review: You could not find more experienced, dedicated teachers. Teachers visit each child in their home before the years begin. It's as though they put out a train set the first day just for my son, having seen him playing with his trains at home. He ran right in and had a very easy transition. He loves Christine and Michele and talks about them by name. Even though it is just four hours a week, my two year old comes home singing the songs and talks animatedly about his time at school. Parents get daily pictures and sometimes even videos about what children are up to in the morning so we can have ask them questions about their time. Even the children who spend just a few hours a week in the program have music class, library time with felt-board stories, gym time and Shabbat in class with clergy. It's an incredibly sweet introduction to school, and a lot of fun! Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend Would you send your child again? Absolutely

• Shout out to the dual-language Preschool program at Beth Elohim

  July 2021

  I know that many families are applying for pre-schools now, and I want to mention this little known program. Everyone seems to know CBE's preschool, which is great on its own right, but our son has been part of the first dual language class and we are absolutely loving it. One teacher in the program speaks only Hebrew, while the other one -only English. A lot has been said about kids' abilities to absorb language, and we truly see it in action. It started with songs and continues with short phrases. In addition, both teachers are experienced and knowledgeable educators, and we've been constantly amazed how well they follow on every detail. They've helped us with potty training, random behavioral questions, and many other day to day items. The actual program is also very rich with activities: besides Hebrew which is present and spoken by one of the teachers at all times, they also have yoga (in Hebrew!), movement, music, and just started swimming. Lots of art projects and they typically pick and study in depth whatever kids are into (which is surely different than my own preschool experience). Right now, for example, they are into store/bakery, so they've been 'building' one in the classroom, and went to a field trip to Divine Taste. We are continuing next year with the dual language program, and we'll be sending our youngest one to the same program in a couple of years too. (February 2014 review)

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Program: Lower School or Early Childhood Age of Child: 4 Likes: As he goes to their pre-school as well, he got to see many friends, one of the teachers he will have next year and many familiar aspects of his day. He was able to swim in their pool downstairs three times a week, went on trips every Wednesday for six weeks and had a special fun class with Jenny Saturn on Fridays where she did hula hoops and movement and was generally hilarious. They set up their own water table right outside the school along with sprinklers so they didn't have to go up to the playground and were always able to do chalking outside as well. What would you change? The program itself is fairly excellent. There is always a lot of chaos with camp as you can purchase single weeks, a few weeks or all 6 weeks so it's a lot of coming and going which the kids acclimate to (but the parents might not). As a parent of a child with a severe peanut allergy, the coming and going meant we had to send out a strong email to all of the parents about what "no nuts" meant (some parents thought peanuts could be considered legumes, for example). The teachers and counselors were very supportive of the no nut situation and called to speak with us about it at length. I might make the camp two weeks longer or so. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? There are many camp programs that happen at Beth Elohim which adds to the craziness during drop off and pick up. Try not to let it intimidate your morning. There is only air conditioning inside the classrooms so you may be waiting in the hot hallway.

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 3 Likes: Playing outside on the water tables What would you change? The camp teachers were not very warm. My daughter showed up every morning and no one said good morning or hi to her. She was never happy to be left there and I don't think she had a great time although she loved her regular year school program there. These particular teachers also left kids in their wet clothes after water play and let them hang out in their swimsuits in the air conditioned classroom. Would you send your child(ren) again? No Do you recommend? Recommend with reservations Do you have any other information to add? I love CBE, but just wasn't happy with this particular class. I really do think the teachers make a huge difference and my daughter didn't connect with this teaching team.

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 6 Likes: She loved her college-aged counselors. There is an indoor pool on site so she swam every day. She liked the busy schedule with lots of changing activities. She liked some of the trips, especially Cheesequake State Park. What would you change? When it rained on a trip day, they went to the movie theater-- wish there had been a better alternative. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? This camp seemed ideal for the 4-7 year old crowd-- think my daughter might be too old to enjoy it as much next year, but will send my younger one when he is old enough.

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Program: Upper Day Camp Age of Child: 8 Likes: Lots of field trips (2 per week). Great counselors. Wonderful variety of activities. What would you change? Have better "fall-back" trips in lieu of scheduled outdoor field trips when there is a rain cancellation Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Season could be a week longer.

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Program: CBE Movin' On Age of Child: 14 Likes: CBE Movin' On because the camp travels to different venues every day: Riis Park, bowling, ice skating, movies, Cyclones, etc., as well as an away trip either to Club Getaway or this year to Six Flags New England. Has been going to CBE camps since 2nd grade. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? CBE ages out at 14

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Program: Upper Day Camp Age of Child: 7 Likes: Tuesday and Thursday camp trips variety activities choice time friendships counselors What would you change? nothing Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 6 Likes: My son loved being with his friends and swimming every day. What would you change? I liked that they were outside a good portion of the time, the two-times-a-week field trips, the counselors and the director of the camp, Bobbi, is just wonderful. My son came home tired but happy every day. Can't as for anything more. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend (October 2013 review)

• Review from 2013 Summer Camp Experience

  July 2021

  Program: Upper Camp Age of Child: 6 Likes: swimming and the trip that were 2 times a week. What would you change? not much. My son does not like sports so this camp is perfect for him. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend (October 2013 review)

• Re: ISO Hebrew School for four-year-old

  July 2021

  I highly recommend that you'll check the Keshet program which operates from CBE. this will be my daughter's 3rd year and she absolutely loves it! She is fluent in Hebrew and is in the immersion class but they have a dual language program for non speaking Hebrew, I have many friends whose kids are in it and they all love it. They use the latest, most innovative ways to teach Hebrew and I've seen amazing results, all in fun, creative, loving environment. It's a place that gives a true sense of community and belonging. For me personally, I like that Judaism is brought in the cultural context. (August 2013)

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Length of time: spent 3 years: 2s, half day 3s, half day 4s Child's age: 4-5 years Review: Our experience at CBE was extremely inconsistent. We have a child with some learning disabilities and sensory issues, which did not become apparent until she started preschool. We had some lovely teachers who cared for my child-- but the overall attitude of the school was, "How are you dealing with this?" rather than, "How can we help?" or, better, "Here is what we suggest." They didn't suggest getting a CPSE eval until it was almost too late, and when we began that process, they were of no help. We were made to feel guilty when our kid had a bad day. And at least one of the teachers was really insensitive and defensive. Overall, it was an "okay" experience at best, which is not saying much, given the tuition and our hopes for our child. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Do NOT recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Terrific Twos Length of time: 2 days a week Child's age: 2-3 years Review: My daughter thrived in the terrific twos program. She looked forward to going to "school" each week and adored her teacher. The program was great socialization and play for her, there was no educational component. The crafts she made were repetitive and not so creative but I didn't mind. This program was all about providing her with some practice listening to instructions, sharing, and playing with other children. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Length of time: Five Full Day 3s. Child's age: 3-4 years Review: My daughter attended the five full day 3's program at CBE. She started when she was almost 3 and loved it from day 1. I loved it too. The teachers were warm and loving. The facilities are amazing with lots of space for kids to run and jump. The kids have a regular routine, participate in setting up and cleaning up after all activities so they learn independence and team work. My daughter's class had movement classes one day a week for the first half of the year and then swimming class once a week for the second half of the year. They are very gentle with the kids, with a long phase-in period at the beginning of the year. But also firm if kids are not behaving. I work full time but felt completely connected to the teachers and my daughter's experience there. Can't say enough good things. Will note that we are not Jewish and there is some religious education but it was always a positive experience for us. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: 3s Length of time: Full Day 5 days Child's age: 3-4 years Review: We were looking for a more developmentally appropriate preschool after our daughter was finished with her wonderful daycare of 3 years. We wanted a play-based and child driven curriculum and have been very happy with our choice of CBE. The school is fantastic and our daughter has flourished and become much more independent and potty-trained! The transition from 360 day coverage to a school with many jewish holidays has been hard though. You must either have a babysitter or a family member who is flexible, Highly reommend the program though. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: ECC Length of time: Full Day Child's age: 4-5 years Review: Amazing school with incredible teachers - very warm, loving, well-educated and thorough. I saw so much growth in my four year old. The Jewish content is also excellent and presented at a perfect level for preschool. My only complaint is the high cost and the many days off - it's tough for two working parents. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Early Childhood Center Length of time: Full Day, 5 Days a Week Child's age: 4-5 years Review: My daughter went to CBE for 3 years. While her start in the 2's program was a little rocky with a teacher who lacked warmth (and has since moved on), her 2nd and 3rd years were fantastic. This past year in a 5 full day program, I really saw the "Emergent Curriculum" take shape with a rich unit covering all aspects of folktales. While it's not a topic that my daughter naturally gravitates to, the teachers made it so engaging and exciting, she was drawn into every aspect of the art, stories, drama, music, etc. that followed the curriculum. The teachers brought their own passions of dance, music and art into the classroom and it really allowed the students to be themselves, as well. The teachers did a great job in bringing the kids together to make a cohesive class by encouraging kids to play with other children outside of their bff's. The one challenge with the school is it's lack of outdoor space. The kids didn't get outside until the spring. They run around in the gym, but there's no substitute for sunlight! Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Early Childhood Center - Flexi 4s Length of time: MTF - 9-12:30, W & TH 9-3 Child's age: 4-5 years Review: Teachers are fantastic, the program is amazing and well-run. My son grew by leaps and bounds! Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Early Childhood Center Length of time: 5 full day 3s Child's age: 3-4 years Review: My daughter had a wonderful school year at CBE this past year. her teachers were amazing- caring, energetic, thoughtful and always working with the children to pursue their interests in the lessons. My daughter was there for 5 full days in the 3 year old class. She also attended after school for a while which worked out well for an extended day. The program definitely teaches the Jewish holidays and they celebrate Shabbat every Friday, but I know that there was a mix of Jewish and non-Jewish families. My daughter learned some Hebrew which we were thrilled about. The children typically are indoors all day which I was initially concerned about, but they have a large indoor gym, a lower gym and a pool (definitely a bonus) so the children have a lot of different spaces to move within. My daughter had a really hard time at the beginning of the year transitioning and the teachers and staff were super helpful with making the process less emotionally draining. They also teach love and understanding and working through problems which is fantastic. There were 2 parent/teacher conferences per year, although the teachers were always available to discuss my child's progress. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Length of time: flexi 4s (2 full days, 3 half days) Child's age: 4-5 years Review: Overall we have loved CBE, and our son has grown and thrived there. He started in the terrific 2s and will be there through the 5s. The philosophy is very play-based, which we like. The teachers have been a mixed bag, from very adept and creative, to duds. Feedback is given through twice yearly parent meetings and through daily emailed pictures in some classes. We would have liked less frequent written feedback in lieu of the pics, not grades of course, but some type of basic developmental assessment and guidance. The facility is nice but has no outdoor space. The 5 day students get to take swimming without an extra fee, which is a huge bonus. The main negative is that the schedule is tough for FT working parents. There are many days off and phase in is very slow in all levels. We have had to keep a full time babysitter, which has been costly. Be sure to get the schedule early and plan way ahead. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Recommend <<< PSP Note: this reviewer has recommended Beth Elohim in the past >>>

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Length of time: 5 days/week, full time Child's age: 4-5 years Review: We were very happy with our twins experience here. The curriculum is very child-interest based; they do projects that emerge from the kids' interests. So this year my children's class did a lot with theater and performing, and a lot of building. The teachers are loving and professional and really know my kids inside and out. This is not an academic program; they won't "teach" your kids to read but they will support their interests in letters as they grow. Also, the full time classes take swimming, which was a huge bonus - no more weekend classes for us! Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend <<< PSP Note: this reviewer has recommended Beth Elohim in the past >>>

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Review date June 2013 (for 2012-2013 year) Program: Length of time: Full Day 4's Child's age: 4-5 years Review: This was our second year with ECC and this was our son's first experience five full days. He transitioned reasonably well. His teachers were wonderful and helped us figure out some tools to help him with some emotional maturity. There were 15 children in his class. The first semester they did music, movement and library. The second semester, they did science, library, music and swim. Increasingly, they were able to go on trips in the second semester, particularly to see shows. Parents and grandparents were frequently invited or could volunteer to come into the classroom to use their talents (musicians, cooking pizza, playwriting, art) with the class. They did Shabbat every Friday and learned about the Jewish holidays. Our son has a severe peanut allergy and while they could not guarantee a nut-free environment, the parents were all aware and were very careful to keep nuts out of the classroom. The teachers were trained on Epi-pens and frequently checked the ingredients of anything with us. We received daily emails with updates and photos of the kids' days. Any little bump or bruise or scrape was immediately pointed out to us at the end of the day and any other more severe ills had phone calls to caretakers to pick their child up. We feel that is a safe, fun and engaging environment for our son and that he has made many friends who he is always happy to have playdates with. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend <<< PSP Note: this reviewer has recommended Beth Elohim in the past >>>

• Review from 2013 Daycare/Preschool PSP Survey

  July 2021

  Program: kindergarten Length of time: 6 hours/ 5 days a week Child's age: 2-3 years4-5 years Review: Beth Elohim offers a play-based kindergarten program. The teachers found things the children were interested in and based some of their program - readings, trips, activities, etc.- around this. The teachers were very available via the phone and email, but not always very welcoming at drop off and pick up. Their demeanor wasn't friendly, but my child seemed happy there anyway. There were two teachers in the room - a more experienced one and a younger, less qualified one- and only 18 kids. The kids had tons of fun enrichment - swimming, music, movement, library, science, etc. Inside the class they played with toys, blocks, art materials, listened to stories, did a bit of academics, etc. The school is affiliated with the synagogue, but there is very little religious instruction. A bit about the holidays and celebration of the sabbath, but no daily prayers. They are kind to the children, and rarely (if ever) use time outs. They offer very flexible early drop off and late pick up options. The biggest drawback is that the school year is very short. They start the year late, have a long transition period, lots of days off, and end the year early. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Recommend <<< PSP Note: this reviewer has recommended Beth Elohim in the past >>>

• Re: Summer camp suggestions?

  July 2021

  My child has been going to Beth Elohim since kindergarten and has loved it. They have a great mix of traditional type of camp activities like Camp Olympics + trips +swimming instruction at least 3x a week along with arts and crafts and some other fun stuff. They use the extensive temple for the home base but also use the park a lot, the pool and trips to get kids out and about. (January 2013 review)

• Re: Summer camp suggestions?

  July 2021

  Camp Beth Elohim has less busing than other camps since they have a pool and are one block from park. (January 2013 review)

• Review Date 2012

  July 2021

  Length of TIme: Full time, 5 days/week Child's Age: 1-2 years4-5 years Review: -Extremely well-organized - very "academic" - lots of focus on letters, pre-reading skills, etc. -Very creative curriculum - children put on puppet shows, made books, teachers used "emergent curriculum" to let kids dictate the focus. -Great facilities - swimming, gym and movement, library, sceince -Not enough outdoors time -Great field trips (zoo, botanic garden, museums) -Teachers were very capable though not overly warm Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Recommend (August 2012 review)

• Review Date 2012

  July 2021

  Program:Full Day 5's Length of TIme: 5 days Child's Age: 4-5 years Review: My twins went to Congregation Beth Elohim for the full day 5's program. Likely many of the other parents, we chose this program as an alternative to sending our late-birthday twins to kindergarten. Given the academic pressure of public school kindergarten we thought it best to wait a year until they were ready for reading and chatter about homework. We could not be happier that we made this decision and that we chose Beth Elohim. The program was phenomenal. It is based on the Bank Street philosophy and really taps into the development level of 4 and 5 year olds. While there is a pretty well-defined curriculum, much of the execution is based on the interests of the kids. In my son's class, the kids spent a lot of time mapping. They visited playgrounds, parents' offices, the post office, etc... They would draw what they saw and then mimic with blocks. At first, the drawings and the block sculptures were unrefined, but by the end of th schoolyear you could really tell when a block sculpture was meant to resembe an office. In my daughter's class, the kids spent a ton of time sculpting and visiting artists' studios. The teachers were just amazing, too. They were warm and friendly, always available to talk about your concerns and share a fun anecdote. They believe way more in positive than negative reenforcement, which seemed to have a great impact on the class. Things never seemed out of control and the teachers never appeared flustered. I wish my kids' entire academic career would continue in this vein, but alas... they are on to public school. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (August 2012 review)

• Review Date 2012

  July 2021

  Program:ECC Length of TIme: 3 mornings Child's Age: 1-2 years3-4 years Review: We've had a super great experience at Beth Elohim. Loved my son's teachers. Loved the thoughtful phase-in period. My son is so close to his classmates. He really grew - both verbally and emotionally. I also feel a nice sense of community with the other parents. The curriculum is pretty Jewish. I know, it's a temple! But I was kind of surprised by that, for some reason. I found the administration and the teachers very accessible and open to conversation. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (August 2012 review)

• Beth Elohim Terrific Twos Review Date 2012

  July 2021

  Program:Terrific Twos Length of TIme: 2 days a week Child's Age: ry made sure that he felt included from the get-go. Daily events included free play, art projects, snacks, songs, stories, and time in the gym. We found this a great introduction to "school" and getting used to classroom dynamics. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (August 2012)

• 2012 review

  July 2021

  Program: Length of TIme: 3 am 3's Child's Age: 3-4 years Review: We have had a very good experience with our son's first year in pre-school. We liked his teachers very much and they were very communicative any time we had an issue that we wanted to discuss. Early on, there was a situation where another child bit our son and they called us immediately, told us what had happened, how it was being taken care of, how he was, etc. I had learned that this type of behavior was happening (from this particular child) earlier in the day from another parent and we discussed the reports from the children that "hitting" was happening which the teachers were surprised by. However, this all tamped down as they got used to each other and my son became very good friends with the biter (who stopped biting). We also met the parents at a potluck a few days later and we all discussed it. Our son became very close to the children in his class and would come home with a great deal of new knowledge and interest. It was not always clear where ideas spurred from but we and the school were able to support the interests of our son. There are many holidays that the school celebrates in the Jewish tradition. Parents are often requested to come in for these holidays. After a while, this became a little tiresome as it was often the same routine: sing with the music teacher as a big group, then go back to the classroom and do something as a smaller group. Our son would often get overwhelmed by the big group and melt down. We finally were able to work with the teachers to go upstairs before the rest of the class so he didn't melt down with the class. The parents are afforded many opportunities to talk to the teachers/administrators and one another. Our class parents were friendly but I didn't feel that we were the most involved group of people. We all liked each other and were supportive at drop-off, reading to each other's kids or helping another parent try to coax a kid out of the stroller but we weren't as good about volunteering for things. However, during vacations, the parents made strong efforts to try to get the kids together for playdates, one even inviting the entire class over during a vacation (plus siblings!). We have tried to continue that into the summer. My husband invited a whole bunch of the class to meet him and our children at the playground one day. Our son has a severe peanut allergy as well as an egg allergy and sesame allergy. The school was very supportive in helping us find ways to keep him safe, having an Epi-pen in both the classroom and the administrative office, posting his allergies in the classroom and working with us to send out our own letter to the parents in the class to personally request refraining from sending peanut items with lunch and to wash hands prior to entering the classroom (something they're supposed to do anyway). We were always notified of an upcoming birthday party so we could bring an egg-free cupcake for our son, though we also provided a recipe that was egg-free, if someone wanted to make it. His teachers always watched where our son was eating to make sure that he wasn't exposed to anything he shouldn't be with regards to his allergies. Over the course of the year, our son learned about the parts of the body, friendships, art, building, pretend play and, his favorite, music class. They also have a bi-weekly movement class and a bi-weekly visit to the school library. But music class happened every week. And he LOVED it. Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (2012 review)

• 2012 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Camp Congregation Beth Elohim Camp Cong Beth Elohim: Garfield Ave and 8th Street Day Care or Sleep Away-- DC Program: Keshet Age of Child: 6 Likes: Camp was incredible! The staff is terrific! My daughter's counsellors are caring, attentive and energetic. Each group has a number of counsellors, so the kids get a lot of attention. The programing of the camp is varied and interesting - A terrific balance between day trips (Coney Island, Bowling, etc..), and sports, art,, music, swimming and more! My daughter attended the Hebrew/English program and has learned a tremendous amount in a fun and supportive atmosphere. She loves camp! What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience

• 2012 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Camp Congregation Beth Elohim (CBE) CBE - Garfield and 8th ave Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Program: Preschool Day camp Age of Child: 3 Likes: He goes to preschool there during the year, so he was happy to be in the same building and see lots of familiar faces. He LOVED the swimming (which is indoors, but right in the building). And he loved the cooking and art projects and the trips to the Park and the water table. Mostly, I think he was just happy to play with his friends. What would you change? I wish they could be outside a bit more, but I understand that it's challenging. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience

• 2012 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Camp Beth Elohim Day Camp Garfield Place and 8th Avenue Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Camp Program: Pre-School Age of Child: 3 Likes: He learned to swim. He liked seeing his friends from school. What would you change? Because it is flexible, allowing kids to do it week by week, it was a little chaotic with the kids coming in and out and it was hard to keep track of who was there when. That said, we took advantage of the week by week to only put him in for three weeks so I think it's just a facet of how it ends up working. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend Do you have any other information to add? For us, it was a good transition for him to the fall schedule of 5 full days. He got to go three full days and see what it was like. Review from 2012 Summer Camp Experience

• August 2012 review

  July 2021

  Program:Early Childhood Center Length of TIme: 3 days Child's Age: 3-4 years Review: Talented, professional caring teachers Great physical plant Strong communication with Parents Do you recommend? (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (August 2012 review)

• 2012 Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Camp Beth Elohim (Garfield Temple) 8th Avenue and Garfield Day Care or Sleep Away-- Day Camp Program: Upper Day Camp and Lower Day Camp Age of Child: 8 Likes: The Lower Day Camp, which my 4 year old attended, was terrific. The counselors are the regular nursery school teachers, so they are very experienced working with young children, and they were loving, creative, and very professional. The kids did fun art activities, had supervised swim time, and played outside when the weather cooperated. My daughter loved going every day. The Upper Day Camp is generally very well managed, with some excellent field trips and activities. There are some terrific counselors who have a wonderful way with kids, and my son had an opportunity to learn Hebrew, work on his swimming, and get some good outdoor time. I knew my son was always well looked after and he made some good friends. What would you change? With the Lower Day Camp, nothing -- it's a wonderful program. I only wish it ended a little later in the summer. With the Upper Day Camp -- some of the younger counselors need to be vetted a little bit more; there were some excellent ones and others who seemed to lack the maturity to address problems and conflicts in an appropriate way (the majority of counselors were excellent though). I also think the camp should schedule more time for the "clubs" where kids can work on photography, science, sewing or other areas of interest. My son was disappointed that he only had two weeks out of four to be in his club. I would also like to see more swimming instructors should be hired for one on one instruction for those kids who need it. But by and large it's an excellent day camp where kids are well taken care of. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? (2012 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  Length of Time: 3 half days 2-3 years I've loved the Beth Elohim preschool. The teachers are so warm and create a really safe, fun, creative experience. My son, who can sometimes feel uncomfortable in group settings, has really thrived in the program. He loves the singing, movement and cooking activities. I recommend the program highly. Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: 3 morning 3's and Flexi-4's Length of Time: 3 morning or 5 days (2 full- 3 half days) 3-4 years teachers- great experience- great able to get a hold of, talk to, responsiveness- great open minded on curriculum (children driven, teacher guided) my children LOVE going there Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: Length of Time: 3 half day 3s 2-3 years Overall we like ECC. The immersiom curricum has worked well in our son's classroom. He loves his teachers and his new friends. The community of families is also lovely. Negatives- The phase-in time is a little too extended. The teacher also refuses to communicate with our babysitter. We're working on that and think it can be overcome. Do You Recommend? Recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: 3 morning 3's Length of Time: 1/2 day 3 times per week 3-4 years Teachers are phenomenal: loving, responsive, available, even-tempered, communicative, warm Classroom is on 4th floor - long walk but good exercise Children have "specials" including library, movement, music Kids cook (harvest muffins, fruit salad, etc...) Some Jewish education around holidays, which is great for our family (mixed-marriage) Long phase-in process; teachers very comforting as kids adjust First parent-teacher conference was good - did give us specific goal to work on and encouraged us to make playdates with kids in class Philosophy is student-driven learning; curriculum is shaped by students' interests, play-based, regularly structured day so that children learn routine, which has been great for my child who responds very well to routine and likes to know what to expect Congregation offers fun activities for families, too: Sukkot party, Hannukah party, Tot Shabbat, high holiday kids' services, which give kids an opportunity to see each other outside of school setting Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: 5's program Length of Time: full day, 5 days/week 4-5 years This was my daughter's first year at this pre-school. She was two years at a prior pre-school. Our experience has been fantastic. The school feels very stable and well-run and the two teachers in the classroom are smart, creative, energetic, very attuned to the needs and personalities of the all the member of the class, and wonderful at communicating with the parents. My daughter has developed a love of school and excitement about learning that is a joy to see. Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: Full day 4's Length of Time: Full days 2-3 years3-4 years Teachers are great, well organized school. The communication to parents could be a little better. The only mayjor complaint is the kids NEVER go outside, not even for a walk on a warm sunny day. They seem to be very concerned about the safety and ability of the class. Do You Recommend? Recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: fours Length of Time: full days 5 days a week 4-5 years Teachers are exceptional, smart, warm and dedicated Play based learning philosophy Teachers communicate in depth about our daughters progress with tips for helping her with transition. I can't recommend the program enough Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  PROGRAM: 2 half-day threes Length of Time: 2 half days a week 2-3 years So far we've been very, very happy. Our kids love it and Iike the community and how low-key they are about everything. The only real downside (aside from cost, of course) is that they have a very extended transition period so it takes a few weeks before the kids are on their full schedule. Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• December 2011 review

  July 2021

  Length of Time: 3 mornings/week 2-3 years3-4 years My son has taken to school well and I think that part of it is because of his teachers and how well they meet him where he is in his growth process. They have re-awakened his love for music through their music classes and he is often singing songs from the classroom that they use to transition from one activity to another. His teachers communicate with us very well and we give them a heads up if there's a particular circumstance that they should keep an eye on. The space and facilities are very good. In addition to the classrooms, the kids go out for other special classes: music, gym, library and movement. The gym has really great structures for the kids to climb on and, because it is actually in a ballroom, there's tons of room for the kids to run around. My son's classroom is a decent size with lots of toys, three tables with kiddie chairs, a circle area, an easel for kids to paint on, etc. There is a bathroom right down the hall from their class, although it is marked for kids only during the day so adults have to go downstairs to the 1st floor (from the 4th) to go to the bathroom. We had a problem with another child biting our son early on in the year. The school dealt with it pretty well. The school called us when this happened but didn't tell us which child it was (though we figured it out and our son confirmed it). Because the bite had broken the skin, they took him to the office, cleaned it and examined it before sending him on to music class. Also, our son has a peanut allergy and the school has been very supportive of us around this. While they do not have a no-peanut policy, they are clear with all families that he has a dangerous peanut allergy and not to send peanut items in lunches. They still have a bag for lunches with peanut and not, though the teachers report that there are never peanut items in the kids' lunches (and they examine them prior to lunch). The teachers seat our son at the same table each day and would seat other children at a separate table, if a peanut item came into the room. They have also been good about helping us communicate with other parents at birthday times when cupcakes are being made as our son has an egg allergy also. Their cooking projects also take into account his allergies. Attending pre-school at Beth Elohim definitely means that he's learning about Jewish holidays. As soon as Thanksgiving was over, he started hearing about Hannukkah and, in October, they built their own sukkah in the classroom. For us, that's not really a problem because we figure it's a good base for his Jewish education anyhow. But it is worth noting that many of the other parents are clear that they are either not practicing Jews or not Jewish at all. The school makes a good effort to build community among the parents and families. There are often events that are hosted (a potluck dinner at the classrooms, Tot Shabbat, etc.) or a listserv organized by our volunteer parents to try to encourage this community. In fact, many of the ways that we ended up building our relationships with the other parents had everything to do with who our son was developing his friendships with. Do You Recommend? Highly recommend (December 2011 review)

• October 2011 review

  July 2021

  We are using the program for the first time this year. My daughter is at PS321 and they pick her up at the school. She is taking gymnastics, ballet, simple machines, swimming and cooking. She seems to love it. The first hour (for kindergarteners) is the specific class and then the 2nd hour is a bigger group play time. It's definitely a bit chaotic when I pick her up but she's loving the opportunity to do these different things. I've never seen it in action b/c I pick her up after it's over but her happiness is enough for me. :) (October 2011 review)

• October 2011 review

  July 2021

  We just started there this fall. My daughter goes three days a week and my son two. They are picked up from school and when I get them, they’re happy. The one thing I didn’t plan for was the Jewish holidays that are not days off for public schools. So next week is a bit stressful for me because I need to find someone to get the kids for me. Aside from that, I’m very pleased and my kids seem content. I like that they’re getting to know new kids outside of school and our general vicinity. A big plus is that the extra classes don’t require an additional fee. So my daughter is getting swimming lessons on top of child care for a reasonable cost. I recommend it highly. (October 2011 review)

• September 2011 review

  July 2021

  Upper Camp Location - Beth Elohim, 8th Avenue and Garfield How old is your child? (or the age when he/she attended camp) Age: - 7 What did you/your child like about the summer camp? She liked how the day was structured to give her a nice mix of activities, and she liked being able to swim every day. They went on bus trips twice a week, usually, to nearby swimming areas, amusement parks, museums, zoos, etc. I just asked her what she thought of the camp and she said "it was AWESOME." What would you change about the program? The camp day ends at 5pm, with no opportunity for earlier pick-up, but I liked that (and my daughter didn't mind the long day.) My daughter says she would change the snacks to giant marshmallows. Will you send your child back to this summer camp program next year? (Or would you if you could?) Yes Would you recommend this program to other parents for their child in the future? Highly recommend If there is any other information you want to provide, let us know here: I especially appreciated the little extras, like the semi-weekly "family swim" we enjoyed. This is a long-established, well-organized camp. Worth it. (September 2011 review)

• August 2011 review

  July 2021

  Specific Camp Program (if applicable) - Elementary Division Location - 8th ave and garfield How old is your child? (or the age when he/she attended camp) Age: - 5 What did you/your child like about the summer camp? Art, music, gymnastics What would you change about the program? We were very unhappy with the camp. We were very excited about a new camp and it was a huge disappointment. The most upsetting and disturbing part was that the staff (counselors and head counselor and higher ups) were unfriendly and cold. It was a bad way to leave our child each day. I was told at the open house that the kindergarten age group would have an adult "teacher like" counselor and this was not true at all. The "home base" room had very few toys and was tiny. When it was pick up time, the kids were just sitting around the classroom waiting for a snack that was given daily at about 4:45 before 5:00 pick up. There was often no other snack provided throughout the day - nothing in the am "unless all the kids complained they were hungry," as the counselor said. Lunch was often to fast to finish eating everything I provided b/c there was a rush to get to a new activity. This camp was not a good transition after being in a warm preschool environment with loving teachers. The two major draws of this camp were the trips and the swimming. My child was swimming since the age of 3 and could jump off a diving board in a deep area of a pool and was still forced to wear swim belts around the waist, water wings, and a kick board in the pool at camp. We were told this was the policy for this age group and even kids who were older. Swim was also very short. We were also excited about the trips and it turned out that the trips were a big disappointment as well. Many involved very long bus rides and were not that exciting once they got there. Our child had an "ok" summer at camp but would not want to go back - which itself says a lot, and of course we strongly agree that we will not be returning. We felt bad all summer that this was not the positive experience we were hoping for. Will you send your child back to this summer camp program next year? (Or would you if you could?) No Would you recommend this program to other parents for their child in the future? Do NOT recommend If there is any other information you want to provide, let us know here: Very disappointing. (August 2011 review)

• August 2011 review

  July 2021

  Age: - 6 What did you/your child like about the summer camp? This was my sons first year there so I was concerned that the camp day would be too long or not enough to do, but it was just right. There were lots of activities throughout the day and he loved his counselors. There were three levels of counselors so it was a good mix. My son especially liked his CIT , he was teen aged and very playful and active with the kids. My kid is hi energy and he was very tired at the end of the day, but happy! Nice that they are in air conditioning in the heat of the summer. Field trips twice a week was a good balance and swimming everyday was a great plus! He talked about circus class also . Will you send your child back to this summer camp program next year? (Or would you if you could?) Yes Would you recommend this program to other parents for their child in the future? Highly recommend (August 2011 review)

• Review from Survey, 2010

  July 2021

  Program: Pre-K Length of Time: full day, five days per week Child's Age: hers are gentle and friendly. This year my child has Michele and Mary. The kids have an introduction to science--talking about apples, snails, etc--and they do a lot of projects and cooking. I wish the kids got outside in the warmer months, but the logistics are apparently too tricky in terms of wrangling enough adults to take the kids to Prospect Park. I also think the school could be decorated in a much more appealing way. The extra classrooms and hallways are quite drab. But that's a fairly minor quibble. Recommend (Hi/Rec/DoNot) Highly recommend (2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program: 3days AM Age of Child: 4 Likes: Knew many of his campmates and was familiar with the school. Very friendly staff and teachers. What would you change? Several of the kids mentioned that they were bored. Not enough 'active' time. Would you send your child(ren) again? No Do you recommend? Recommend with reservations (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Lower Camp Age of Child: 5 Likes: The FIELD TRIPS! Biggest hit with my son. Also enjoyed the free play time in the classrooms before and in-between activities. I liked how smooth and well-run the programs were (even with so many kids!) and that most things take place on-site in & around air-conditioning. What would you change? Nothing specific. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Upper Day Camp Age of Child: 7 Likes: The variety of activity. Fabulous counselors. Lots of swimming. A great time. What would you change? Nothing Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 7 Likes: My son enjoyed the twice weekly field trips, and swimming everyday. It was a fun group of kids! What would you change? More experienced counselors, perhaps. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Recommend (December 2010 review)

• Review from 2010 summer camp survey

  July 2021

  Program: Movin On Age of Child: 12 Likes: Great trips every day - including 2 overnight trips - one to Boston/Springfield/6 Flags and one to Club Getaway in Kent, CT. Other trips include amusement parks, bowling/billiards, beach, baseball games, arcades, roller skating, zoo, movies,etc. Kids are nice/very diverse crowd. Continuity of couselors from year to year. What would you change? Start it even earlier in June - esp for kids who are out of school early - and extend into late August. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? This is by far my child's favorite camp - she likes it better than any other camp she goes to during the summer and looks forward to all the trips. I wouldn't mind going myself!

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 8 Likes: My boy loved everything about this camp. He likes to play with girls as well as boys, and this camp mixes the genders throughout the day. What would you change? Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? I like this camp because you can sign up by the week. They are very good about integrating the new kids each week. They have a counselor in training program with 3 levels of counselors, so in each group, along with the newbies, there are several more experienced counslors which I really appreciated. They offer a discount for any 4 weeks of the summer. Also, my daughter went to the older kids Movin' On camp for 5th grade and up and absolutely loved it! (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Age of Child: 6 Likes: the range of activities, counselors, pool, What would you change? Nothing Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Upper Day Camp Age of Child: 5 Likes: There were a lot of great activities for her. She really liked swimming daily, going on 2x weekly trips and having circus class. Each week, she had a new story about enriching aspects of the camp we had not even known about. What would you change? More swimming instruction, and a bit more flexibility about leveling. She grew way more comfortable with swimming over the course of the camp, but had to push to be re-evaluated so she could take off her floaties. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend (December 2010 review)

• 2010 Review from PSP Summer Camp Survey

  July 2021

  Program: Lower Camp Age of Child: 3 Likes: Very well organized by the administrators from the well-established preschool program. Teachers were caring and my daughter took to them within the first hour. In addition to classroom-based activities, they had a large play area with climbing equipment just outside the classroom, swimming twice a week and trips to the park or water play on the sidewalk the other three days of the week. What would you change? Nothing. Would you send your child(ren) again? Yes Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do you have any other information to add? In my opinion, day camps based at preschools are a fantastic option for the little ones. A structured, play-based program like Beth Elohim's is a terrific model for toddlers. (December 2010 review)

• Review from Survey, 2010

  July 2021

  Name of Program Two Morning Twos KID AGE:2-3 years We LOVE this program. It's got an amazing, warm, community feel - very low-key and friendly. The directors are incredible and very communicative. The teachers are lovely - warm, informative and very approachable. Highly Recommend/Recommend or Do Not Recommend?--Highly recommend (Fall 2010 review)

• Review from Survey, 2010

  July 2021

  Name of Program:Terrific Twos 2 days/wk KID AGE:1-2 years Mary is fabulous. Dealing with children this age is like herding cats, and she is immensely patient and supportive. My one complaint is that after 2 months I have not received any feedback. Highly Recommend/Recommend or Do Not Recommend?--Highly recommend Review Date: Fall 2010 Beth Elohim Early Childhood CenterN/A (Fall 2010 review)

• November 2010 review

  July 2021

  Our child is currently in the Terrific Twos program at Beth Elohim. He loves it and talks about it every day of the week. His teacher has a great spirit and the energy in the school is just wonderful. We got on the list for the 3s program and just took the tour. We love the school but aren't Jewish (or anything else, really). (November 2010 review)

• August 2010 review

  July 2021

  My daughter just finished the terrific twos program and she really enjoyed it. In order to get in... 1. It is first come first serve. Also, temple members get priority (which can totally determine whether or not you get in). The line opens at 9 (I believe) and last year we got on line around 6:30 am the day after labor day. Sounds harsh, but not that big a deal if you bring a book or coffee. 2. If you decide you want to go sign your kids up for the nursery school (3's program), the application process starts in the fall. They say that you do not get priority if your child is in the 2's program. That is also a first come first serve day. Temple members also get priority for that sign up. Therefore, you kind of get more bang for your buck as far as membership goes for the same year. It is kind of pricey just to try guarantee two's and nursery admission, but if you were inclined to join anyway, it makes it seem worth it. 3. When you sign up for two's you ask for a certain set of days and time (ex. M/W 9:15-10:45 or 11-12:15). If I remember correctly this year there were some slots left over in the more "undesirable" slots but don't quote me. I am sure you can call over to Bev at the office, she is really helpful. (August 2010 review)

• February 2010 review

  July 2021

  Summer Camp/Name of Business - Beth Elohim Location - Garfield Place 2. How old is your child? (or the age when he/she attended camp) Age: - 8 3. What did you/your child like about the summer camp? The camp is well run - organized - and I trust them to care for my child. I like that the kids are put in groups where they develop relationships over time with the counselors and other kids. The facility is great -- indoor pool is a big plus - air conditioned rooms. As a working parent the schedule works wonderfully for me -- and I like that full camp activities run until 5pm - that it's not babysitting from 3 - 5. Most of my son's friends went to this camp for some of the summer - and this was most important for my child. 4. What would you change about the program? I don't think there's enough physical activities - outside time - sports. My son has attended other summers and liked it -- but this summer I think he found it a bit dull. A couple of outdoor trips were cancelled when there was a threat of showers or a drop or 2 -- and kids went to a movie instead. This did not make me happy. I'm all for safety but they were a bit too cautious this year - for this age group. For the 1st time I was also not crazy about my son's counselors -- nor was he and he is a kid who likes most people. (February 2010 review)