Afterschool at the J

The JCA afterschool program provides a warm, nurturing environment for young children grades k-3, where they have the opportunity to expand the learning of their school day, connect with peers, and build supportive, caring relationships with talented early childhood professionals. In addition to the diverse range of daily classes, specially designed for this unique age range, we offer a curriculum that revolves around exploring the outdoors, long term projects, art, and Jewish values.

Through our wide array of daily enrichment classes children can learn, play, and grow by tending to our raised bed gardens, trying new foods as they cook in a kid-friendly kitchen,  explore new mediums with professional artists in our spacious art studio, or perhaps just enjoy a favorite book with a friend in our cozy library. Under the care of mindful care takers children will expand their emerging science and literacy skills and build an appreciation for stewardship of the world outside our doors through a curriculum rich in collaborative, peer-based learning focused on developing self-confidence and problem-solving skills.

We know that after a long day at school many children simply need time to recharge their batteries and we provide many outlets for quieter activities such as cooling down with a yoga class, homework on the porch, doodling in the art studio, or simply chatting with a friend or teacher over a board game. As a program based on children and family needs, we strive to meet each individual child where they are on a daily basis.

Different than other after school programs, the JCA offers care that believes children deserve more than simply a place to hang around at the end of their day -- they deserve to be cared for, engaged, and stimulated. At the JCA we believe the journey to becoming lifelong learners doesn’t have to end after the last school bell.

The afterschool program costs $135/wk and includes: 
 

• Transportation from 1 of 6 Portland school locations  
• Extended care for early release Wednesdays and Teacher Professional Learning Days
• Enrollment in 1 of our fabulous enrichment classes every single day!  
• A nutritious afternoon snack
• Priority registration for our February and April vacation camps