Welcome: A Message from our Preschool Director

Let me be the first to welcome you to Congregation Etz Hayim Preschool. Established in 2001 we have been offering a high quality, play based, Jewish preschool environment for over 20 years. Our staff is a dedicated team that believe in letting children learn through action and creativity as children are strong, bright, skilled and inquisitive. We believe in children building respect, accountability, knowledge and community through exploration and discovery.


Our school’s philosophy of education uses a play-based approach though a Jewish lens. Lessons are child-centered and allow children to choose activities of interest to them while providing opportunities for cognitive, social, emotional and physical growth. We understand that children develop at their own individual pace, and we support each child’s personal developmental needs.


The curriculum has been designed to provide a Jewish atmosphere throughout the program. The children are given a sense of Jewish identity through the weekly observance of Shabbat, the celebration of Jewish holidays and the introduction of Hebrew through songs, stories, and conversation. Children learn through hands on explorations both during free-play and structured learning times. Some of the children’s favorite explorations include self-identity, holidays, family, the natural world, transportation, our body, dinosaurs and more.


Etz Hayim Preschool offers a half day and full day program for children 18 months to 5 years old. Our school year is 10 months, September through June, with summer camp offerings in July and August. It is our goal to make learning developmentally appropriate and fun so that their love of learning will grow with them through the years. Please be in touch to schedule a tour or with any questions you may have.

Maggie Heidema
703-979-4466

To learn more about our Preschool, click here.

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2920 Arlington Blvd, Arlington, VA 22204

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