Frequently Asked Questions

​What is your curriculum/philosophy?

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At BTEE Early Childhood Center we believe that a high-quality early childhood program should promote the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of young children in a safe and nurturing environment that responds to families’ needs. Our daily activities are child-led and play-based. To learn more about our philosophy, click here. 

 

How old must my child be to attend?

 

We have classes for children ages 2-5 years. Please see our offerings under the Programs tab for the age range for each class. 

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Do you offer part-time schedules?

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Yes. As your child transitions from home to a preschool setting, we understand the importance of flexibility. For our two-year-old class, we offer a part-time schedule with Monday, Wednesday, and Friday options.

 

What are your hours?

 

Our full day program runs from 9am to 3pm and our half day program runs from 9am to 12:30pm, Mondays through Fridays. We also provide extended care (7:45-9am and/or 3-5:30pm) for an additional fee. 

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What is your student to teacher ratio?

 

To ensure individualized attention and strong teacher-child connections, we maintain small class sizes. Our ratios are:

• 2 year old classroom: 1 teacher for every 6 children

• 3 and 4 year old classrooms: 1 teacher for every 7 children

• Pre-K classroom: 1 teacher for every 8 children

This ratio is significantly lower than California’s requirement of one teacher for every 12 children. 

 

Why should I enroll my child in your preschool program instead of public school’s Transitional Kindergarten (TK), where it’s free? 

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While the rollout of public TK through California is a welcome step toward equitable access to early education for every child, our preschool offers several elements designed specifically for young children’s development: 

• Our student-teacher ratios are much lower—about a third fewer students per teacher than in public TK—allowing for more individualized attention and stronger connections with each child. Smaller ratios also allow parents to have direct, personalized contact with the teachers. 

• In public TK, classroom management is prioritized due to the large teacher to student ratio, while in our pre-k program, the students are prepared for kindergarten while still thriving in a play-based and creative environment that prioritizes music, art, dance and hands-on science. 

• Our campus was intentionally built for preschoolers, with child-sized toilets, sinks, and nap areas that make children feel comfortable, safe, and independent. 

• Just as importantly, our teachers are able to respond closely to each child’s social-emotional needs, helping them build confidence, friendships, and readiness for kindergarten in a nurturing environment tailored to their age and stage of development.

 

What is the enrollment process?

 

Enrollment begins with a tour of our campus, which is a required step before registering. We offer personalized tour dates to fit your family’s schedule. Simply complete our interest form with your availability, and a member of our team will contact you to arrange your visit.

 

How does the school approach security?

 

Your child’s safety is our highest priority. We have a range of security measures in place to protect students and staff, but for safety reasons we do not publicly share specific details. Please know that we work closely with the Burbank Police Department and take a proactive approach to maintaining a secure environment.

 

Are snacks provided?

 

Yes. We provide a morning and afternoon snack. A sample of the snack menu includes: Cheerios, yogurt, fresh fruit, applesauce, string cheese, nutrigrain bars, raisins, Wheat Thins, Veggie Pouches, and challah (on Fridays).

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Does my child need to be Jewish to attend?

 

No. For over 50 years, BTEE’s preschool has welcomed families of all backgrounds. We are proud to serve the broader community, and all children are welcome here.

 

Does the preschool follow kosher dietary laws? 

 

Yes. School lunches must have dairy and/or parve items only (no meat, pork, or poultry on the campus). Dairy foods include milk, cheese, yogurt and cottage cheese; Parve foods include eggs, fruit, nuts, peanut butter, vegetables, soy products, bread and other grain products and fish (no shellfish).

 

Does my child need to be potty trained?

 

Your child does not need to be potty trained to attend our preschool. Our educators are experienced in the process of helping children transition to practicing independent toilet use. When the time comes, our teachers will partner with you and your child to gently support the transition, making it a positive and encouraging experience.

 

Is there naptime?

 

For full day students, there is a scheduled nap time in a calming and supervised environment if your child naps. The amount of time that nap lasts depends on your child’s needs.  However, for those children who have dropped their nap or are transitioning out of it, alternative settings are offered and no child is required to nap.

 

What if I am late picking up my child?

 

Being on-time at the end of class is important to your child. If unforeseeable circumstances keep you from arriving on time, please contact the preschool. Someone will stay with your child until a parent arrives.