The Tucson J’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program was recently named the 2025 Best of Tucson’s Best Daycare. Led by director Joline Riddle, assistant director Tiffany Mills-Horton, and a staff of incredible teachers, our ECE program offers year-round learning for children ages 6-weeks to pre-k.
It is no wonder that our program is consistently ranked among the best early childcare programs in Tucson! Keep reading to explore three reasons why our program goes beyond your typical daycare or preschool — and why so many families choose to make the Tucson J part of their lives.
Highly-Educated, Passionate Staff
How many preschools are led by soon-to-be Ph.D. graduates? Well… at least one! Our director, Joline, is pursuing a Ph.D. in education at the University of Arizona, and our assistant director, Tiffany, at Grand Canyon University. Their advanced academic work brings an exceptional depth of knowledge in child development, evidence-based practice, and early learning theory directly into our classrooms.
And it’s not just our leadership team who are childcare experts. Our ECE program is supported by a dedicated teaching group of early childhood professionals who bring a powerful combination of training, experience, and heart. Every classroom is led by teachers with specialized early childhood experience, many of whom hold degrees or certifications in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related fields.
Plus, our teachers participate in ongoing professional development, including workshops, specialized early childhood trainings, and national conferences to stay current on research, policy, and best practices in early childcare. This commitment to continued learning allows the children in our program to benefit from the most current, developmentally informed approach to early education and child development.
A Play-based Curriculum that Builds Confidence and a Love of Learning
At the Tucson J, our curriculum is intentionally designed to nurture the whole child — socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually, and creatively. From infant to toddler and pre-k, our program is rooted in the Sheva Framework, a philosophy developed by the Jewish Community Center Association. Sheva, meaning “seven” in Hebrew, reflects our belief that each child is unique, capable, and full of potential.
Our play-based approach allows children to learn through exploration, creativity, and meaningful experiences. We make room for imagination and curiosity, build confidence through supportive relationships, and foster a genuine love of learning that children carry with them as they grow. We believe that “care” and “education” are inseparable, and we view each child as a feeling, thinking, and creative individual.
Children learn best when they are active participants in their own learning. Through play, inquiry, problem-solving, and discovery, children develop critical thinking skills, positive self-esteem, and a strong foundation for future academic success. Our teachers act as facilitators—thoughtfully structuring environments, guiding experiences, and supporting each child’s individual rate and pattern of growth.
As part of the Sheva Learning Community, we integrate seven core elements and Jewish values into our daily experiences, emphasizing wonder, inquiry, responsibility, compassion, and community. These values help children see themselves as capable learners and caring members of the world around them.
A Unique, State-of-the Art Facility
While our ECE program has all the typical amenities of a high-quality preschool— a playground, spacious classrooms, shared learning spaces, and an art studio — it also offers something truly special: access to the full Tucson J campus!
Throughout the day, our students enjoy our indoor PlaySpace, gymnasium, a second playground that is wheelchair accessible, Sculpture Garden, and, during the summer months, the pool and SplashPad. ECE children can often be found exploring the Fine Art Gallery to discover the latest works on display—sparking curiosity and creativity—or joyfully moving their bodies, bouncing balls, and playing games in the gym. Also unique to our program, our 12-month students participate in swim lessons offered during their school day. There is also a wide variety of PeeWee Sports, such as tennis, basketball, gymnastics, and soccer, designed for kids ages 3-5—and the coaches pick your child up directly from class! These experiences support physical development, confidence-building, and healthy movement in ways that go far beyond a traditional preschool or daycare setting.
Flexible Options with a True Family Focus
Every family’s schedule looks different—and we believe childcare should support, not complicate family life. Our preschool is open 7am to 6pm, with 7, 9, and 11-hour options for care as well as 10 (pre-k only) or 12-month contracts, to meet a wide range of needs. The J’s family-centered approach extends beyond the classroom. While your preschooler is learning and playing, older children can attend a sports clinic, and parents can enjoy a workout or class in our Fitness Center. Programs at the J are designed for every stage of life—including grandparents who can find community in one of our many Healthy Aging programs—creating a vibrant, multigenerational community.
The Tucson J’s programming is intentionally designed so that there is always something new for children to grow into and enjoy. Many families join the J for early childhood education and remain members as the J grows with their changing needs. From first steps to lifelong friendships, we’re proud to be a place where families belong.
We invite you to experience the Tucson J’s award-winning Early Childhood Education program firsthand. Schedule a tour, meet our passionate educators, and see how our play-based, developmentally informed approach helps children grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy. You can learn more here.
