חֲנֹךְ לַנַּעַר עַל־פִּי דַרְכּוֹ, גַּם כִּי יַזְקִין לֹא־יָסוּר מִמֶּנָּה.” – משלי כב:ו”
“Teach a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
At Better World Preschool and Congregation B’nai Israel (CBI), this timeless verse guides everything we do. Education and community engagement are most meaningful when they meet each person — especially our youngest members — right where they are. This philosophy, known in Hebrew as chinuch al pi darco, emphasizes nurturing each child’s unique path and empowering families to grow together within a strong Jewish community.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of operating a preschool at CBI. For half a century, generations of children began their Jewish learning and built lifelong friendships here. Today, Better World Preschool continues that legacy with small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a commitment to meeting each child where they are — academically, socially, and spiritually. We are also excited to have opened our doors to infants for the first time, working closely with families to provide schedules that meet their childcare needs.
Our vision extends beyond serving current families. We are here to support the greater CBI community by creating opportunities for families with young children to engage, learn, and thrive. I believe every family and every individual should feel that they have a place here. We’re building programs that connect parents and children, deepen their sense of belonging, and strengthen their Jewish identity through joy, tradition, and learning. Inclusivity is central to our mission. We proudly welcome children with different abilities, including those with neurodivergent learning styles, and encourage them and their families to participate fully in all aspects of our community.
We are expanding engagement through our partnership with PJ Library. Together, we are hosting our first ever Love Your Animals Day, featuring a petting zoo, pony rides, opportunities to bring your own pet, and a special blessing over the animals on Sunday, October 26. We are also launching a new Toddler & Me course with Little Foxes Play, designed for our youngest learners and their parents or caregivers to experience our warm and supportive community.
Families can also look forward to creative holiday celebrations, hands-on learning opportunities, parent gatherings, monthly young family newsletters, and family-friendly Shabbat experiences. Each program ensures that every family can find a meaningful entry point into Jewish life at CBI.
As Proverbs reminds us, the seeds planted in childhood last a lifetime. Through chinuch al pi darco, CBI is creating a nurturing environment where children and their families can flourish — honoring 50 years of preschool education and building toward an even brighter future for generations to come.
With warmth as we inspire, educate, and support all of our children,
Aliza Maslansky
Director, Better World Preschool
