Getting a Head Start in Preschool

Scrap the Play-Doh, forget Red Rover and get acquainted with the new age of preschool that's incorporating gym classes, computer lessons and geography.

Lido Beach Synagogues "Torah Time" Preschool offers students an enrichment program that includes a different specialty each day. 

"Lido Beach Synagogue offers a child centered program that provides extra curricular activities within the school day," said Michelle Liechtung, whose children, Gabby and Emily, attend the school at Lido Boulevard and Fairway Road.

"The small groups, Jewish culture, and the amount of toys that facilitate pretend play is why I chose their program,” Liechtung added.

At Torah Time, preschoolers work on laptops to gain computer skills, practice yoga with a certified instructor, take a musical course to learn instrumental skills, and, on Fridays, children make Challah bread to take home to their family.

Torah Time is one of several preschools in the area that offer Long Beach parents a variety of schools and educational styles. 

Another is the Sandbox Preschool at the West End Community Center on Maryland Avenue, which has more than 20 years in business. Its curriculum includes structured projects, cultural exposure and academic and leisure activities.

"I picked Sandbox based on family recommendations and price," said Megan Fahy, whose daughter Ella attends the preschool. "Ella loved Sandbox. She got to be creative and, most importantly, play. She will be going again next year."

Long Beach's preschool programs offer many activities designed to teach children different skills, along with alternative educational styles, such as the Montessori Preschool at The People's Church on Delaware Avenue.

Designed to cater to the individual needs of children, the Montessori program teaches children practical life skills, including how to tie their shoes, as well as handwriting, mathematics, geography, zoology and history through the use of toys, puzzles, games and development learning materials.

"My daughter was using scissors, cutting, writing her name, and was able to point out all our continents," said Tina Hannoh about her daughter Genna, who attends Long Beach's Montessori Preschool.