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THE VOGEL FAMILY CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING

JumpStart

JumpStart is a comprehensive, experience-based early intervention program for children aged two years old with developmental disabilities. Children are given opportunities to practice acquired and emerging skills of development through their play experiences within the classroom and throughout the building, with the support of a 1:1 child to Teaching Assistant ratio. We believe that young children with developmental delays benefit from a typical, age-appropriate classroom setting. JumpStart provides these children with opportunities to safely explore, grow socially, and develop communication and play skills while having fun in a nurturing but orchestrated environment.

JumpStart has two locations: 
• Stamford JCC - 1035 Newfield Avenue • Stamford, CT 06905 • 203.487.0980
• Maritime Odyssey Preschool - 11 Ingalls Avenue •  Norwalk, CT 06854 • 475.215.6100

Schedule a Tour: Stamford  Schedule a Tour: Norwalk

 

The JumpStart experience includes:

• Structured play

• Circle time

• Opportunities for art & cooking

• A sensory motor activity

• Snack

• Music

• Outdoor play

• Swim Angelfish

Our Mission

To enhance the lives of children and young people with developmental disabilities and to provide support to their families. This to be achieved through education, advocacy and the provision of play and discovery experiences in a classroom, camp, virtually or at special events. Activities may take place at the JCC or within the local community.

Our Values

Innovation

Services and support will be provided in safe, fun, and accepting environments through innovation, teamwork, and respect for the people we serve.

Teamwork

Collaborative working with individuals, families, schools, and community organizations will ensure that together we help to inform and encourage the inclusion of all individuals with disabilities in their community.

Equality

Everyone deserves access to therapeutic, educational, and recreational resources that enable them to reach their full potential and develop the skills for fulfilling work and friendships.

Respect

People with disabilities have the same rights and feelings as all people and deserve to learn, work, play, and enjoy life based upon their preferences. Each person's own strengths and aspirations for the future should be acknowledged and respected.

Enrich, Support and Include

JumpSTARs is a family support program to promote well-being and create a family support network for parents, caregivers, relatives, and siblings of individuals of all ages who are impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities.

JumpSTARs provides a series of activities each month that are educational, recreational and social. Events will be free and open to the public on a first come basis depending on venue capacity.

Click here to learn more and see upcoming events.

Something for Everyone!

In addition to the comprehensive experience offered at JumpStart, see how you can make the most of your time at The Stamford JCC!

Inclusion

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Hand in Hand

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Birthday Parties

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JCares

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Jane Faherty

Director, JumpStart

I have served as Executive Director of the JumpStart program since 2014. After a career in human resources in London, I earned a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Special Education and completed COPAA’s Special Education Advocate Training. I value my roles as educator, advocate, and program leader, helping connect families with resources and creating opportunities for children to learn, grow, and thrive.
Direct tel: 203.487.0980
jfaherty@stamfordjcc.org

 

Laura Martinez

Head Teacher, JumpStart (Stamford JCC)

My name is Laura Martinez. I received a B.S. in Psychology from Stony Brook University and have worked within early childhood education for the last 11 years, with over 4 of those with special needs in the public school system. I enjoy working with children of all abilities and have spent much of my time in the last few years working with non-verbal elementary aged children.

direct tel: 203.487.0946
lmartinez@stamfordjcc.org

Larissa Santaella
Head Teacher, JumpStart (Norwalk, Maritime Odyssey Preschool)

I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education for 28 years and recently earned my Master’s degree in Children with Disabilities, following my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I began my career at an early childhood center in Westport in 1998, where I developed a strong passion for supporting young children and their families. In 2022, I joined Jumpstart as the Norwalk Jumpstart Head Teacher, where I continue to support children, families, and educators through meaningful early childhood experiences.

Direct tel: 475.215.6100
lsantaella@stamfordjcc.org

 

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