Our Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Program recognizes that intellectual, social, emotional, spiritual and physical development are intricately interwoven. We believe in integrating all areas of learning to use a holistic approach to education. Our students will thrive on exploration, creativity, spontaneity and lots of love. Our curriculum recognizes that play is the best tool for learning and allows flexibility to follow the interests and needs of your child. Music, arts and crafts, cooking, large and small motor skill activities, creative movement and entertainment programs are all designed to develop your child’s full potential. Our teachers are committed and responsive to each child’s needs. We strive to give your children a love of learning and discovery, a sense of trust and worthiness that they will take with them into their future experiences and through the power of play!
General Info:
Address: 600 West 70th Street Indianapolis, IN 46260
Phone: 317-259-6854
Website: http://www.bez613.org
Q&A with Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center:
What makes Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center unique?
At our school, children are seen as capable, curious, and full of potential. Our play-based program is thoughtfully designed to support the whole child—socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically—while honoring each child’s individuality.
Rooted in a research-based approach to learning, children actively explore, problem-solve, and make choices throughout their day. Teachers serve as guides and partners in learning, creating an environment where independence, creativity, and confidence naturally grow.
Our strong sense of community and joyful Jewish identity are woven into daily life in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. Traditions are celebrated with intention, inclusivity, and warmth, creating a welcoming space for families of all backgrounds.
Above all, we believe that early childhood should be a time of wonder, connection, and discovery—and we are committed to providing a nurturing, engaging environment where children truly thrive.
What is Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center’s educational philosophy?
Our school believes that young children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. Across all classrooms, we provide a play-based environment where children are encouraged to be curious, make choices, and engage actively with the world around them.
In select classrooms, we implement the HighScope approach—a research-based curriculum that emphasizes active learning, child planning, and reflection. In these classrooms, teachers intentionally support children as they plan, carry out, and review their experiences, helping build independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
While instructional approaches may vary by age and developmental stage, our commitment is consistent: to meet children where they are, honor how they learn best, and create engaging, developmentally appropriate experiences that support social-emotional growth, creativity, and early academic foundations.
What is Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center’s age/grade range?
3 months – 6 years (Pre-K)
Do you enroll children throughout the year?
Yes. We enroll children year-round if space becomes available in each classroom.
When does registration open for Summer Camp and the school year?
Registration for Summer Camp 2026 and the 2026–2027 School Year will open in January.
What is your birthday cutoff date?
Our birthday cutoff date is August 1 for the academic year and June 1 for summer camp sessions.
Do children move classrooms during the school year?
No. We follow a traditional school-year model. Once the school year begins, children remain in the same classroom for the entire year, with no mid-year classroom transitions.
What are the standard school day hours? Does Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center offer flexible day/hour options? Is before/after school care available?
What schedules are offered for infants?
Our infant program is full-time only, offering a consistent daily routine that best supports infant development.
What schedules are offered for toddlers (2’s and under)?
For children age 2 and under, we offer:
Half-day programs until 12:30 pm
Full-day programs until 3:00 pm
Families may choose their days (2 or more days per week) for this age group. (Infants excluded.)
What schedules are offered for 3’s and older?
For children age 3 and older, we offer full-day programs until 3:00 pm, with a minimum enrollment of 2 days per week.
What are the Pre-K options?
Our Pre-K program is available as a 3-day or 5-day full-day program.
What are your daily hours?
Early Care: begins at 7:30 am
Drop-off: begins at 8:50 am
After Care: available until 6:00 pm, or 5:30 pm on Fridays
Do you offer full-time and part-time options?
Yes. Full-time and part-time options are available, depending on the child’s age and classroom availability.
How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?
All classrooms follow Indiana state licensing ratios to ensure children’s safety and individualized care. In our older classrooms, we intentionally staff below the state-required ratios to provide additional support and attention.
3 months and up: Approximately 8 infants with 2–3 teachers
12 months and up: Approximately 10 children with 2–3 teachers
18 months and up: Approximately 10 children with 2 teachers
2-year-olds: Younger and older classrooms with approximately 10–14 children and 2 teachers
3-year-olds: Two classrooms with approximately 16 children and 2 teachers
Pre-K (3-day and 5-day): Up to 18 children per classroom
What is the teacher/child ratio?
3 months – 1/4
12 months – 1/5
18 months – 1/5
2’s – 1/5 or 7
3’s – 1/8
4’s/5’s – 1/8 or 9
What are the teacher’s credentials?
Our teachers are caring, experienced early childhood professionals who are committed to supporting children’s growth and development. All staff meet or exceed Indiana state licensing requirements and participate in ongoing professional development throughout the year.
Our team brings a wide range of strengths to the classroom, including hands-on experience with young children, training in play-based and research-informed teaching practices, and a deep understanding of child development. Teachers regularly engage in coaching, workshops, and in-house training to continuously strengthen their skills.
Most importantly, we value relationships, consistency, and responsiveness. Our teachers are attentive, engaged, and intentional in how they support each child—creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Is parental participation required?
Families are an important part of our school community. Parents are invited to volunteer in a variety of ways, including serving on committees that help support school events and initiatives. Our Parent Committee meets monthly and plays an active role in strengthening connections among families and staff.
Parents are always welcome in their child’s classroom—to visit, observe, or volunteer—at any time. We value open communication and partnership with families and believe that collaboration enriches each child’s experience at school.
How do teachers communicate with parents? How often do parents receive updates?
We utilize the software Remini to communicate with our families about our student’s daily reports and any communication. Our teachers send out brief daily updates and detailed weekly newsletters. There is also a monthly newsletter that includes updates from our Director.
Does Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center offer support for students with special needs?
We want to provide the best educational experience for all children with or without special needs. However, this may mean we would need outside support from specialized professionals to help guide us and show us new techniques for new students.
How much time do the children spend outside?
We take the children outside as long as it is at least 32 degrees and a safe wind chill. We also watch the heat level so the children do not become endangered. We follow the heat index.
Are meals and/or snacks provided?
Yes. All children have AM snacks, Lunch, and PM snacks. Those children in aftercare also receive a third snack.
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
The children must be potty-trained if they are going into our Pre-K 4’s/5’s class.
What enrichment programs/activities are offered?
We offer Ms. Liz the Science Wiz monthly for the Pre-K
Gymboree on the go with classes for the 18 months – Pre-K
Silly Hearts Yoga
Entertainment: Jungle John, Don Miller Magic, Indianapolis Opera Ensemble, MadCap Puppets, etc.
Gymboree Art
Crouching Tigers
Tumbling Tigers
Step by Step Dance
Ballet
Soccer Shots
Field Trips for Pre-K
What are Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center’s safety policies
The safety of our children and staff is a top priority. We have daily on-site police security and an updated secure entry system to help ensure a safe and controlled environment.
In addition, we maintain comprehensive security policies and procedures that are regularly reviewed and practiced. These include controlled access to the building, visitor sign-in protocols, emergency preparedness plans, and ongoing staff training. Together, these measures allow us to provide a secure, welcoming space where children can learn and families can feel confident.
Who should parents contact for more information about Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center?
Please contact:
Christie Fuller |Â cfuller@bez613.org | 317-259-6853
Assistant Director – Stephanie Payne | spayne@bez613.org | 317-259-6854
Why do families choose Beth- El Zedeck?
A place where children are known, valued, and inspired to learn.
Our school offers a play-based, developmentally thoughtful program led by caring, experienced teachers. With low ratios, strong safety practices, and a warm Jewish community, we partner with families to create a nurturing environment where children grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy.
