LYA's Early Childhood programs are designed specifically to meet the needs of young children in the community. Licensed by the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC), the Pre-K and kindergarten offer children from 15 months to 5 years an all-day, year round experiential program in a stimulating, secure and nurturing environment.

For LYA's earliest learners, those from 15 months to 2 years 9 months of age, the program focuses on developing physical, social, cognitive and motor skills. In the Pre-K for 3 and 4-year-old children, the emphasis moves to developing communication and learning skills and nurturing a healthy self-esteem. Pre-math and pre-reading skills are introduced when students are ready. The Kindergarten program is designed to address the needs of individual students and facilitate their transition to early primary education.

Small classes with an excellent student-teacher ratio ensure that each student's particular talents are recognized and encouraged by the supportive staff faculty. Curriculum enrichment in the arts and other areas begins in Pre-K and continues at all grade levels. The outdoor playground allows children to explore and exercise in a protected setting.

Early Childhood Department Lilia Luzhanskiy , Early Childhood Director Lilia Luzhanskiy joined the LYA team in August 2010. She received her degree in Early Childhood from Open University, Tel Aviv, Israel and the Levinsky College of Education, Tel Aviv, Israel. Lilia Luzhanskiy holds a degree of Associate in Arts from Springfield Technical Community College. E-mail: [email protected]

​  Kayla Larivee, Early Childhood Teacher - Toddler Class Kayla joined the LYA team in 2020. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and Photography from Holyoke Community College and Greenfield Community College. Kayla is certified in infant, toddler and preschool care.  ​

Megan Gregoire, Early Childhood Teacher Pre 3 Class

Stephanie Windyka, Early Childhood Teacher Pre 4 Class Stephanie joined the LYA staff in the fall of 2013 after interning at LYA in the 2012-2013 school year. She holds a Bachelors Degree from Bay Path University.

Faigie Wolff, Early Childhood Judaic Teacher