Infant and Toddler Programs 

At the Barbara K. Lipman Early Learning Center, our infant and toddler programs are thoughtfully designed to support your child’s development from the very beginning. Each classroom offers a warm, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore, grow, and thrive. Progression through the Noah’s Ark program is based on each child’s individual development. We take great care to ensure that every child moves forward at the right time, receiving exactly what they need to succeed at their own pace.

Ketanim (“Little Ones”)
For our youngest learners, starting at 6 weeks old- Designed to feel like home, this classroom offers a cozy, nurturing setting for your child. Each child is on their own schedule, and we follow it the same way you would at home. The children have the opportunity to have tummy time, music, listen to books, and much more as they grow into stronger babies. Outside time is spent either on stroller rides or on blankets in the Courtyard. This room is for our non-mobile babies. When they start moving, they are ready for the next step, Alef! 

Alef – Older Infants (Up to 14 Months)
Alef is designed especially for our older infants, providing a safe, engaging space where they can explore and grow. At this stage, children are still on individualized schedules for naps and bottles, but as they spend more time awake, they begin to enjoy the social aspects of classroom life, such as lunch, participating in circle time, and playing in the indoor playroom.

This is our "crawlers" room, and before long, many are taking their first steps! Weather permitting, the children enjoy stroller rides outdoors and even get to experience water play during the summer.  Once they transition to one nap, move off bottles, and are eager to explore more of the school environment, they’re ready for the next big step: Bet!

Bet – Toddlers and Early Walkers (Approximately 12–20 Months)
The Bet classroom is where children begin to experience a more structured day. It is their first introduction to a classroom schedule, sleeping on mats, and participating in enriching extracurricular activities. At this stage, children enjoy P.E., Music, Art, Hebrew, and time in the Library, as well as daily outdoor play on our age-appropriate playground.

We also introduce The Creative Curriculum, offering engaging units like “Things That Bounce” and “What Makes Light?” that spark curiosity and promote hands-on learning. Once children are ready for a slightly longer morning with extended activities and increased independence, they’re ready to transition to the final classroom in the Noah’s Ark program—Gimmel!

Gimmel – Older Toddlers (Typically 18 Months to 2.5 Years)
Gimmel is where toddlers begin to grow into preschoolers. Many children enter this classroom as early walkers and leave the classroom running with confidence. Through play, exploration, and increased independence, they continue learning every step of the way—both inside the classroom and throughout Temple Israel.
Circle Time becomes a bit longer, playground time is more active, and indoor activities take on greater purpose and structure. We continue to use The Creative Curriculum, preparing children for the more academically focused learning that begins the following year.

For children who are ready, this is also the stage where toilet training may begin. Our experienced teachers are fully prepared to support both children and families through that process. Children transition into Gimmel as they are developmentally ready which can be as late as January of that year. This is where they join the educational cohort they’ll grow with throughout their time at the ELC. Together, they make their next big move at the end of May to our first preschool classroom: Starboard!