Nursery
Age 3
Licensed Daycare
Play-based learning that supports independence, social development, and early exploration.
Early Years students at CJA are welcomed into a warm, nurturing environment where curiosity is encouraged and a love of learning begins. Learning is guided by play, exploration, and predictable routines that help children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
At CJA, our Early Years include three distinct programs designed to support children as they grow in confidence, independence, and readiness for school. Our Nursery and Junior Kindergarten programs provide licensed daycare, while Kindergarten introduces structured academic learning guided by the Alberta curriculum.
Each program builds naturally into the next, easing the transition into elementary school and building a strong sense of belonging within the CJA school community.
Age 3
Licensed Daycare
Play-based learning that supports independence, social development, and early exploration.
Age 4
Licensed Daycare
School readiness focused on early literacy, numeracy, and growing independence.
Age 5
Academic Program
Structured learning guided by the Alberta curriculum, preparing students for elementary school.
Early childhood is a significant period in development. Independence, creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning all begin here.
In our Early Years classrooms, learning is developmentally responsive and designed to meet each child where they are. Through play, exploration, and predictable routines, children build early academic, social, and self-regulation skills that support independence and confidence.
Children at CJA learn through:
These experiences support the development of language, early literacy and numeracy, social skills, independence, and a positive relationship with learning.
Jewish culture and traditions are intentionally woven into daily life in the Early Years. Through stories, songs, celebrations, and shared experiences, children are introduced to Jewish life in ways that feel meaningful, warm, and age-appropriate.
Older students regularly visit Early Years classrooms to read stories, create crafts, and participate in celebrations, helping young learners build relationships and a strong sense of community across the school. These shared experiences help children develop early connections to identity, community, and values.
Families can choose from flexible program options that support a variety of schedules.
Nursery and Junior Kindergarten students attend morning classes and may remain for the afternoon through Gan Khugim, our extended-day daycare program. This student-directed, inquiry-based program allows children to stay in a familiar and supportive environment throughout the day.
Kindergarten students attend a five-day morning program guided by the Alberta curriculum and may extend their day through KinderArts and Discovery Days, where creative arts and science activities support the transition to more structured elementary learning.
After-school care until 5:00 pm is available for Early Years students at no additional cost, providing additional support for families needing extended care.
CJA’s Early Years programs offer a unique combination of licensed daycare and strong educational foundations within a caring school environment.