Welcome to the BJBE's Early Childhood Program at the Chava Center
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Our welcoming early childhood program combines joyful Judaism, a love of learning, and a caring community.
Play Based Learning Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our child-centered, play-based curriculum encourages curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Through hands-on exploration and meaningful experiences, children build confidence while developing social, emotional, and academic skills in a warm, nurturing environment. The Right Program for Each Family We partner with each family to ensure a personalized experience that best meets the unique needs of each child. Extended learning and exploration options at every age, ensure families can tailor their child's experience to include early bird and/or lunch bunch programs. Summer camp programs and tot-adult classes round out our year-round programming options. A Joyful Jewish Foundation
Jewish life is woven into the rhythm of each day. Holidays come alive through hands-on celebrations and storytelling. Hebrew words and melodies flow naturally into circle time and play, nurturing a sense of Jewish identity and belonging from the very start. Children gather to welcome Shabbat each week with candlelight, song, and the sweet taste of challah. Our inclusive, welcoming community ensures every family feels at home, united by shared values of kindness, curiosity, and care. Meet our Director, Jacqueline Hubert
Jacqueline brings more than 20 years of educational experience to her role as Early Childhood Director of BJBE's Chava Center. Since starting at BJBE in 2018, Jacqueline has passionately cultivated a learning environment grounded in Reggio-inspired, play-based principles. Under Jacqueline's leadership, academics are thoughtfully woven into meaningful play experiences that support each child’s natural curiosity and creativity. Central to her philosophy is the belief that social-emotional development is the foundation for lifelong success focusing on education as a priority and a sacred obligation—empowering learners to help repair the world— tikkun olam. A Teaching Staff of Lifelong Learners
Our dedicated educators bring research-based, play-centered learning to life every day. Grounded in best practices in early childhood education, our teachers approach their work with curiosity, intention, and genuine joy — modeling for children what it means to be a lifelong learner. BJBE is Your Home
All Chava Center families enjoy a free BJBE membership while their oldest child is enrolled. Discover all the benefits of BJBE membership. JUF Right Start—Helping families get started with Jewish education
JUF Right Start was created to increase awareness and access to Jewish early childhood programs for Chicago-area families. JUF Right Start provides a financial voucher for families enrolling their children during the academic year in a Jewish infant, toddler or preschool program for the first time. This unique program was the first of it's kind in the country. |
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