The Early Childhood Center at the J is dedicated to educating the whole child. We offer both an academic and a social/emotional curriculum, and our program is licensed and accredited. In addition to our student-driven school day, we offer dozens of "extra-curricular" activities on-site – swimming, yoga, dance, sports and more.
Our program is committed to providing quality care and education that embraces the development of children's minds, bodies and souls. We stimulate the minds of young children through an innovative and individualized curriculum, implemented by a well-trained staff in a safe, nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment. One hundred percent of our Pre-K graduates are prepared for kindergarten as measured by a state developmental checklist.
The Early Childhood Center at the J provides year-round care for children ages six weeks to 5 years, Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Full time, part-time and combination schedules are available. J Day Camps are included during the summer months at no extra cost.
Two locations give parents in both the Creve Coeur and Chesterfield areas easy access to our program, and our children enjoy the benefits of all the J's facilities – including year-round swimming and physical education classes. We are one of very few Jewish parenting centers in the St. Louis community and our programs are open to people of all faiths as well as to J members and the public.
Visit us on the web for more information or to arrange a tour!


Stop in and have some fun in the indoor pool at the Lodge of Des Peres with your little one at this drop-in swim time for kids up to age 6. No pre-registration is needed; Water Waddlers is open to residents and non-residents of Des Peres.
The Preschool Science Series is an open exploration learning lab for young scientists - ages 18 months to 5 years - and their families. Activities are designed around research that shows children learn best through play, inquiry and shared experiences with their parents and caregivers.
At Sensory Friendly Night at Boo at the Zoo, families can enjoy festive decorations, Zoo attractions, entertainers, special food and drink menus and more in an environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This special night will mirror the traditional Boo at the Zoo experience, but also includes sensory maps, quiet areas and trained Zoo staff to assists guests.
At this free art program for ages 3-6 the focus is on the process of making art rather than the finished product. Dress to get messy!