Maslulim Programs for Preschoolers
Research and experience prove that children from underprivileged communities often lack the opportunities and resources needed to reach their full potential. In many cases, their development is delayed because they do not receive the support required to bridge the growing gaps between them and their peers.
Early childhood is a critical stage for cognitive, social, and emotional development, with a lasting impact on a child’s future. Studies show that investing in early childhood education yields the greatest return, not only in education but also in economic, social, and health outcomes.
The age at which preschool children enter educational settings, the duration of their attendance, and their access to high-quality programs are significantly influenced by their family’s socio-economic status (Taub Institute, research on preschool settings in Israel, Dana and Kanin).
The Preschool Track Program follows an ecological model, viewing the child as influenced by various environmental factors, including parents, educators, peers, and the community.
The program supports each child from their early years in collaboration with municipal professional bodies such as the Education Department, Social Security (welfare), and more. Professionals develop a personalized intervention plan for each child, focusing on ensuring smooth transitions between educational settings and preparing them for optimal integration.
Goals
Enhancing skills and abilities in compulsory kindergarten children
Reducing the number of children with developmental delays
Improving reading acquisition for first-grade students
Increasing school readiness levels for first-grade children
Our model – מסלול for every child
"Sh., 10 years old, is in his first year at the Maslulim Achievement and Learning Center in Bat Yam, studying with his mentor, Shirley Khashon. Sh. initially struggled with understanding and had a fear of failure. Shirley reassured him that making mistakes is part of the process and that the journey is what matters most. Despite his learning disabilities, Sh. has shown remarkable persistence, always arriving early and actively participating in his sessions. Together, they have successfully narrowed his math gaps, bringing him up to the level of his class."
Programs for Toddlers
(Birth to 3 Years)
Support and Information Group for Parents (Babies 0-6 months)
A weekly group for 10 parents (mothers and fathers on maternity leave) with babies, guided by professionals. The program includes enrichment workshops on parenting and infant development, aiming to strengthen the parent-child bond, raise awareness of infant needs, and empower parents with tools for optimal parenting.
"Kindergarten with Mom" (Babies 6 months to 3 years)
A weekly two-hour group for 15 mothers and toddlers not enrolled in daycare. Led by a professional facilitator, each session offers guided and free activities to support parent-child relationships. The program includes observation by developmental professionals to detect delays, provide language enrichment, and offer parenting support and guidance.
Early Detection and Prevention of Developmental Gaps (Ages 0-3)
This program takes place in daycare centers, in collaboration with the Department of Social Affairs, National Program 360, and the Child Development Unit. Speech and occupational therapists supervise staff to identify children needing intervention, reduce developmental gaps, and promote language enrichment. The speech therapist is present weekly to provide direct guidance.
Programs for Toddlers (Ages 3-6)
Speech and Language Support in Kindergartens
This program integrates speech therapists and student volunteers into local kindergartens to reduce and prevent language gaps. In collaboration with the education department, child development centers, and parents, children are assessed to identify those needing individual or small-group support. Identified children work with clinicians and students within the kindergarten setting to address speech issues. Those with developmental delays are referred for further diagnosis and treatment through a fast-track system. Educational staff are trained to continue promoting language and literacy.
Reducing Gaps and Preparing for First Grade
Specialized teachers in compulsory kindergartens focus on preparing children for first grade, reducing academic gaps, and ensuring they are ready for school.
First Grade Preparation – Step 1: Verbal Enrichment Workshops
Afternoon workshops for children identified by educational staff. The goal is to reduce verbal gaps, enhance vocabulary, improve motor skills, and foster curiosity and confidence to prepare children for first grade.
First Grade Preparation – Step 2: Enrichment Workshops
Workshops in the afternoon focus on reinforcing skills learned in kindergarten, such as organization, social skills, and learning habits. Children are selected based on recommendations from kindergarten teams.
Workshops for Parents
Workshops and lectures are held in collaboration with Nativim for parenting/SHA to help parents prepare their children for first grade.
Parent-Child Club
A weekly language enrichment program designed to strengthen the parent-child bond under professional guidance, with around 12 parent-child pairs participating.
School Preparation Program
A daily summer program for kindergarten children before the start of first grade, running for one or two weeks. In collaboration with local elementary schools, teachers and volunteers work in small groups to reinforce kindergarten skills and prepare children for the transition to first grade.