National Jewish Early Childhood Network

What is the Network?

The National Jewish Early Childhood Network (NJECN), established in 1977, is allied with the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The membership is comprised of individuals who are interested in the unique needs of young Jewish children in an early childhood educational setting.

Who joins the Network?

  • Teachers, assistants and administrators (both Jewish and non-Jewish) serving Jewish children and their families in Jewish community centers, private and synagogue sponsored early childhood centers, primary schools, and day care settings.

  • Educators and trainers working for colleges, central agencies, consulting firms, and businesses who have a special interest in the concerns of young Jewish children.

  • • Advocates for Jewish early childhood education, aware of and concerned with meeting the needs of young families raising Jewish children.

    What does the Network do?

    The annual NJECN Conference is held on the Tuesday and Wednesday preceding the official opening of the NAEYC national conference. On Tuesday, visits are arranged to observe outstanding Jewish early childhood education centers in the host city, and hear from their Directors about the philosophies and practices they have chosen to implement. On Wednesday, expert speakers address the unique concerns facing the membership as they work for the healthy development of young Jewish children and their families. NJECN allows for so many opportunities to meet other early childhood professionals and share ideas because of the diverse geographical representation of members, and because the NAEYC conference is held in a different city each year. A varied, but unified support system has been created for resources, curriculum ideas, and philosophical approaches. In addition to the formal learning sessions, NJECN sponsors a Shabbat dinner and Havdalah service where a week of learning and a common bond are shared.

    What will joining the Network mean to me?

    Your membership in the Network gives you:
  • Discounted rates for each activity during our Annual Network Conference.
  • Free attendance at our Annual Membership Reception during the Conference.
  • A Welcome Bag full of goodies to get you through your week at NAEYC, including a list of local Kosher restaurants.
  • Access to the Members Only section of our website, including monthly newsletters with information on Jewish holidays, early childhood pedagogy, and upcoming events.
  • Opportunities for personal and professional interaction with other educators working in Jewish early childhood settings, or interested in Jewish educational practices.

    How can I join the Network?
    To join the National Jewish Early Childhood Network, please complete the registration form. For questions about Network, contact Jenna Kalkman, Membership Vice President, jenna@moriahcong.org. For questions about registration, contact Helaine Groeger, Program Administrator, laineyg@aol.com.