Lower Elementary School
A vibrant, engaging, and supportive space where your child can learn and thrive.
Students are invited to think critically, embrace new challenges, build meaningful friendships, actively participate in their learning, and nurture compassionate and thoughtful behaviors that will help guide them throughout their lives.
Lower Elementary
Curriculum
At the Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley, our General Studies Program builds upon the knowledge and skills developed in previous grades, while introducing more advanced, developmentally appropriate strategies. The curriculum encourages students to cultivate strong work habits, a sense of personal responsibility, and independence. Language arts and mathematics serve as the core of the program, while students also receive enriching instruction in science, social studies, art, music, physical education, and library, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Our Judaic Studies Program emphasizes a deep appreciation for Jewish values, the development of Jewish identity, and a love for the State of Israel. Students are taught to speak, read, and write Hebrew, as well as recite daily prayers. Classes focus on moral and ethical behavior, character development, and civility (Derech Eretz), reinforcing the importance of respectful and kind interactions. From a young age, students are instilled with the understanding that they are part of a diverse Jewish community, where every voice matters and deserves to be heard and respected.
Key milestones in our Lower Elementary program include the Siddur Ceremony for First Graders, where students receive their first prayer book, and the Chumash Celebration for Second Graders, where they are introduced to the study of Torah, marking significant moments in their Jewish learning journey. These ceremonies are cherished highlights that reinforce the importance of Jewish education and tradition in their lives.
The Lower Elementary Program at the Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley offers a well-rounded, developmentally appropriate curriculum that fosters academic growth while nurturing a love of learning. Designed for students in grades 1 through 3, the program focuses on the whole child—socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically—providing a balanced education that integrates both General and Judaic Studies. Students engage in active learning experiences that build critical thinking and foundational skills, while encouraging creativity, independence, and a strong sense of community. Through this holistic approach, students thrive academically while deepening their connection to Jewish traditions and values.
The Details
4. Social and Emotional Development
A core part of the curriculum is helping children build social skills, empathy, and emotional resilience. Through cooperative play, group projects, and daily interactions, students learn to communicate, solve conflicts, and express their emotions in healthy ways. Teachers guide children in understanding their feelings and those of others, building a strong sense of community.
5. Jewish Traditions and Values
Jewish culture and traditions are woven into the curriculum, offering children a deep connection to their heritage. Students learn about Jewish holidays, customs, and stories through hands-on activities, crafts, and songs. Hebrew language is introduced through simple phrases and songs, while Shabbat celebrations and holiday observances provide meaningful experiences that deepen their understanding of Jewish life. The values of tikkun olam (repairing the world), kindness, and respect are instilled through daily practices.
6. Creative Arts
Art, music, and movement are integral parts of the curriculum, encouraging self-expression and creativity. Children participate in painting, drawing, crafting, and building, exploring different materials and textures. Music is infused throughout the day, with singing, rhythm activities, and dancing fostering motor skills and creative expression. Drama and imaginative play help children develop language and social skills while encouraging a love for performance.
7. Physical Development and Outdoor Play
Physical activity is a daily part of the curriculum, promoting gross and fine motor skills. Children engage in structured and free play both indoors and outdoors, including activities like running, climbing, and balancing. Outdoor exploration and nature-based learning are emphasized, allowing children to develop a connection to the environment while strengthening their physical abilities.
1. Language and Literacy Development
Children are introduced to foundational language and literacy skills through storytime, song, and interactive activities that promote vocabulary building and early reading skills. The curriculum includes exposure to both English and Hebrew, encouraging bilingual language development. Students engage in storytelling, recognizing letters, and developing pre-writing skills through creative and age-appropriate exercises.
2. Mathematics and Problem-Solving
Through hands-on activities, children are introduced to basic math concepts like numbers, counting, shapes, patterns, and measurement. Math is integrated into daily routines—like snack time counting or sorting objects by size and color—to make learning engaging and relevant to everyday life.
3. Science and Exploration
The curriculum encourages curiosity through exploration of the natural world. Children engage in experiments, sensory activities, and thematic units about animals, weather, plants, and seasons. These activities foster an early understanding of scientific concepts and critical thinking skills while nurturing a sense of wonder about the world.