fbpx
TOPAsset 3TOP

About

At ChefLab – The Science Kitchen and Essense – Education Sensations, we believe that “education is what remains after forgetting what we were taught.” Founded by Nina Bendheim, our mission is to transform learning into a dynamic, hands-on experience that sparks curiosity, creativity, and long-term memory retention.

Our programs engage all five senses to nourish both mind and body, making learning meaningful, memorable, and expressive. By creating an environment designed for success, we’ve built a strong framework for lifelong learning—breaking down larger concepts into age-appropriate, attainable goals. This turns education into a holistic adventure, thoughtfully tailored for individualized discovery while fostering a safe space where every child can thrive.

The following paragraphs introduce the colorful mosaic that makes up the ChefLab by Essense brand and express what we are all about.

about nina

I’m Nina Bendheim, founder of ChefLab and the emerging new project, Essense. Born in New York City and raised in Jerusalem, my passion for inclusive education began with a desire to improve upon the traditional classroom experience. After studying education at Hebrew University and teaching at an inclusive Jewish Montessori day school in NYC—while also pursuing a degree in psychology—I returned to Israel determined to create spaces where learning would be enriching, immersive, meaningful, and fun.

After all, ask Einstein, and he’ll tell you—that’s what creativity is: intelligence having what? You got it… fun!

In 2018, I launched ChefLab as an after-school program teaching science through cooking. At the time, food was our primary tool—an ideal medium because it naturally engages all five senses in one experience. Over time, ChefLab evolved into the Afternoon Academy, a daily program that integrates social, cultural, and practical life skills through hands-on, academically focused experiences.

bubble
Read More

Inspired by ChefLab’s success, I recently founded Essense to expand this sense-based educational model beyond private spaces, enriching elementary learning across diverse communities. At their core, both ChefLab and Essense break down complex concepts into digestible, age-appropriate lessons—proving that it’s possible to teach anything to anyone when the approach aligns with each child’s developmental needs.

Some interpret the quote, “If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid,” to mean that not every subject suits every learner. I see it differently. To me, it’s about catering to developmentally appropriate needs—not limiting subjects.

To me, goals are thoughts—attainable goals are thoughtful plans, and successful plans are habit-led practices. By personalizing learning through the sense that each child connects to most—whether consciously or not—we’ve learned that aiming high is essential. But the magic happens when those goals become attainable through habits that awaken each child’s natural, instinctive inclinations. That’s where a developmentally individualized, sense-based approach makes all the difference—helping every child unlock their full potential in a way that feels natural, non-overwhelming, and truly attainable—in a way that lasts.

 

The Mix! - Where Nina meets ChefLab, ChefLab meets essense

Our Approach

We combine the science behind sense-based learning with creative expression to inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and foster long-term memory retention. Our immersive, multi-sensory experiences engage all five senses—touch, taste, smell, sight, and sound—to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

By blending intellectual growth with emotional development, we break down complex concepts into accessible, meaningful lessons. Whether through science experiments in the kitchen, cultural exploration, or creative projects, every experience is designed to encourage discovery, foster confidence, and ignite a passion for learning — that lasts. 

Working with original ingredients, accurate measurements and hands as tools, my “recipe” for success combines equal parts of individuality and community, a handful of team players, a touch for substitutions, a pinch of wonder woman and a generous sprinkle of patience. *Store in a warm creative environment to rise..

FAQ

Most frequently asked questions and answers

Some Montessori Guiding principles we aim to adapt:

Curiosity:

Children don’t stop asking questions because they lose interest. Rather, they lose interest because they stop asking questions. In a Montessori classroom, children’s natural curiosity what drives the lesson forward. 

Calm and Peaceful Environment:

We do not survive so we can learn, we learn so that we can survive. When the brain’s safety needs are met, it will allow its neurons to transmit information freely without interruption

Demonstration:

Show and not tell. The role of the Montessori teacher is to give the child tools for self-exploration. Lovingly and respectfully interacting with the child as an equal rather than as his superior helps build and foster an environment of safety. 

This common misconception wouldn’t be very safe or calm would it? NO.

Montessori is based on the principle of free choice of purposeful activity. If the situation calls for it, the teacher will intervene and re-direct the child either to more appropriate materials or to a more appropriate use of the material.

In the Montessori classroom, learning materials are arranged on low, open shelves. Children choose which materials to use and may work for as long as the material holds their interest. The materials themselves invite activity. They are simple to use, aesthetically appealing, and self-correcting. The child is able to solve problems independently, building self-confidence, analytical thinking, and the satisfaction that comes from accomplishment. As the child’s exploration continues, the materials interrelate and build upon each other.

Montessori schools combine “grades” into co-aged classrooms, traditionally in  three year groupings. Here are a few benefits I have found behind the method.

Familiarity = Safety: In traditional schools, by the time children become comfortable in their surroundings they are uprooted and moved to a new classroom setting – often with new teachers. 

Safety = Confidence: When a child feels safe in his environment – he builds confidence (compare children’s behvaior at home to public or new settings)

Confidence = Leadership: When a child feels confidant, he naturally leads his younger classmates around the classroom.

Leadership = Patience: A successful leader listens. Older children serving as examples to their younger classmates help to develop patience and listening skills.

All members of the ChefLab community are immersed in the values of our commitments to ourselves as well as to each-other.

I will be Safe. Safety first. This includes health standards, age appropriate materials, adult supervision and child behavior. 

I will be Kind. We use kind language and practice kind gestures. We reinforce kind behaviours between friends.

I will be Gentle. We keep our hands to ourselves. We are gentle with our bodies, voices and classroom materials.

I will be Respectful. We do not discriminate. We listen to each-other, welcome differences and try our best to learn from one another.

ChefLab Afternoon Academy is a private daily afternoon schooling extension which offers an integrated Montessori style model of purposeful play through art, language, and cultural studies.  At ChefLab, we educate the whole child and develop curriculum that supports each individual child’s cognitive, emotional, moral, and social development. 

Beginning our afternoon together with lunch, children are then directed into separate groups: Primary (Pre K- K, Lower elementary (Grades 1-2)  and Upper elementary (Grades 3-5) where they are given clear guidelines to help transition from one academic structure to another.

Our Cheflab learn and lab class model is purposefully designed to maximize internalization and child autonomy. Made up of presentation, lesson activity, and independant work time, children internalize the material before entering the kitchen-lab. Once mastered the children return later in the week for reinforcement and edible expression!

In October 2022, we expanded our horizons and  cultural experience by adding history, geography and art to our original science centered Chugim! On top of that we are adding a separate chug before every weekend introducing the Parashat Hashavua (weekly Torah portion) in a culturally accepting and  deliciously nourishing way – ChefLab style!

Most of our cooking does not require cutting. We focus on mixing, blending, seasoning, baking, boiling (with adult supervision). However, children may on occasion be cutting.

Children use cutlery designed for smaller hands and the tools they use vary based on age. Younger children are given small introduction knifes. Older children are given tools appropriate for their age. 

Guide each child on an individual path. – Proverbs 22.6

ChefLab welcomes and supports all beliefs and practices. While we are a science-based program, we do not disregard or disrespect creationism in any way.

At ChefLab, every unit is woven into another to form a web that supports a child’s innate drive to find meaning in life. We embrace our cultural, religious and educational differences and teach our students to engage in respectful dialogue, creating a cultural mosaic reflective of our community and the world.

The ChefLab kitchen is kosher and vegetarian. 

Each one of our programs has the cancellation policy more suitable for what is being offered. Afternoon Academy, Chugim, Camps and private events can be found on our Terms and Conditions. 

Enrollment is confirmed and payed for via the website alone.  

CoLab is a co-working space designed for the working parent. We do our part to make your professional life more convenient by providing onsite childcare for you as you work.

The MamaLab workspace includes both shared and semi-private offices, high speed internet, and a separate room for nursing mothers to nurse their little ones comfortably.

CoLab and ChefLab are two separate business independent of one another. Both businesses were founded by Nina under the same guiding principles and are run by the same management team.

Papas are welcome equally and with pleasure! Our memberships are parent to child – both parents can alternate between them. 

Yes. Parents are provided with a fully equipped workspace within the CoLab facility. Our program offers on-site childcare to parents working on site. Drop-off and leave is not our thing.

Our Cheflab learn and lab class model is purposefully designed to maximize internalization and child autonomy. Made up of presentation, lesson activity, and independant work time, children internalize the material before entering the kitchen-lab. Once mastered the children return later in the week for reinforcement and edible expression!

This year (October 2022) we will be expanding our horizons and  cultural experience by adding history, geography and art to our original science centered Chugim! On top of that we are adding a separate chug before every weekend introducing the Parashat Hashavua (weekly Torah portion) in a culturally accepting and  deliciously nourishing way – ChefLab style!

ChefLab Tzaharon is a private daily afternoon program which offers an integrated Montessori style model of purposeful play through art, language, and cultural studies.  At ChefLab, we educate the whole child and develop curriculum that supports each individual child’s cognitive, emotional, moral, and social development. 

Beginning our afterernoon together with lunch, children are then directed into separate Tzaharon groups: primary (Pre K/K)  and elementary (Grades 1-3) where they are given clear guidelines to help transition from one academic structure to another.

All members of the ChefLab community are immersed in the values of our commitments to ourselves as well as to each-other.

I will be Safe. Safety first. This includes health standards, age appropriate materials, adult supervision and child behavior. 

I will be Kind. We use kind language and practice kind gestures. We reinforce kind behaviours between friends.

I will be Gentle. We keep our hands to ourselves. We are gentle with our bodies, voices and classroom materials.

I will be Respectful. We do not discriminate. We listen to each-other, welcome differences and try our best to learn from one another.

This common misconception wouldn’t be very safe or calm would it? NO.

Montessori is based on the principle of free choice of purposeful activity. If the situation calls for it, the teacher will intervene and re-direct the child either to more appropriate materials or to a more appropriate use of the material.

In the Montessori classroom, learning materials are arranged on low, open shelves. Children choose which materials to use and may work for as long as the material holds their interest. The materials themselves invite activity. They are simple to use, aesthetically appealing, and self-correcting. The child is able to solve problems independently, building self-confidence, analytical thinking, and the satisfaction that comes from accomplishment. As the child’s exploration continues, the materials interrelate and build upon each other.

Montessori schools combine “grades” into co-aged classrooms, traditionally in  three year groupings. Here are a few benefits I have found behind the method.

Familiarity = Safety: In traditional schools, by the time children become comfortable in their surroundings they are uprooted and moved to a new classroom setting – often with new teachers. 

Safety = Confidence: When a child feels safe in his environment – he builds confidence (compare children’s behvaior at home to public or new settings)

Confidence = Leadership: When a child feels confidant, he naturally leads his younger classmates around the classroom.

Leadership = Patience: A successful leader listens. Older children serving as examples to their younger classmates help to develop patience and listening skills.

Most of our cooking does not require cutting. We focus on mixing, blending, seasoning, baking, boiling (with adult supervision). However, children will on occasion cutting.

Children use cutlery designed for smaller hands and the tools they use vary based on age. Our 3-5 year olds are given small introduction knifes. Older children are given tools appropriate for their age. 

Safety is key and our lessons  begin with knife and heat skills percussions. Our parent workshop teaches this as well – I recommend signing up for an event!

Guide each child on an individual path. – Proverbs 22.6

ChefLab welcomes and supports all beliefs and practices. While we are a science-based program, we do not disregard or disrespect creationism in any way.

At ChefLab, every unit is woven into another to form a web that supports a child’s innate drive to find meaning in life. We embrace our cultural, religious and educational differences and teach our students to engage in respectful dialogue, creating a cultural mosaic reflective of our community and the world.

The ChefLab kitchen is kosher and vegetarian. 

Each one of our programs has the cancellation policy more suitable for what is being offered. Tzaharon, Chugim, Camps and private events can be found on our Terms and Conditions. 

Our MamaLab terms can be found  here.

Enrollment is confirmed and payed for via the website alone.  

Our Team

Gwynne Stein
Director of Communications and Institutional Advancement

Originally from Palm Springs, California, Gwynne lived in Tel Aviv for the past three years. Gwynne holds a bachelor’s degree in Studio Art and Psychology from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree in Art and Museum Studies from Georgetown University. Continuing for her second year, Gwynne started as Director of Child Support and Parent Communications and quickly progressed to Nina’s right hand woman. Currently back in the US, Gwynne leads all institutional advancement where her organizational and creative strengths shine.

Since completing her degree, Gwynne has developed a business as a Judaica paper-cut artist and appreciates all forms of creative expression. Before joining ChefLab, Gwynne worked at an English-speaking gan in Tel Aviv while developing her own creativity centered curriculum.

תמונה של WhatsApp_ 2023-10-04 בשעה 18.32.49_9b55b5a7 (1)

Kimberly Choi
Department of English Language Arts curriculum development

Originally from Panama City, Kimberly holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the Universidad Latina de Panamá and currently resides in Rishon Lezion. Before moving to Israel, Kimmy contributed to a civil organization’s value-based program mentoring young teenagers and inspired her dedication to making an impact through diverse and inclusive education. As the Regional Program Director for an NGO supporting children from orphanages, she developed engaging curriculum for a preschool, and tutored students in the after-school program.

Kimmy’s passion lies in empowering individuals through education with a creative and individualized approach. Her effective communication, conflict resolution, and organizational skills make her a valuable asset to our English Language Arts department and curriculum development team.

Rachel Julia Abramov
Department of Mindfulness, Art and Child Support

Rachel is an Austrian native who moved to Israel in 2017. She holds a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences and art and is a certified yoga instructor after completing a training course in India. With a committed background in private childcare, and recently joining our MamaLab team, Rachel is passionate about sharing her creativity and knowledge through artistic expression growing alongside children as they develop. 

Her mission is to teach mindfulness and yoga to the next generation. Rachel brings her experience as a ChefLab teacher, leading both the art and mindfulness program with dedication and enthusiasm.

Sophie Rose Leb
Assistant teacher and Work-time Facilitator

Born and raised in Florida, Sophie has lived in Tel Aviv since September 2021. She moved to Israel after earning her bachelor’s degree in Deaf Education with a minor in American Sign Language from the University of North Florida.

 
Sophie has over six years of experience working with diverse groups of children and students ranging from three months to 18 years with varying physical and mental abilities. We are pleased to welcome Sophie to our MamaLab team where she brings her knowledge of emotional and physical development, patience, and passion for children.

Words of dELIGHT

What our parents say

"ChefLab has been a game-changer for our family. Every project sparks excitement—not just for my child, but for our whole family. My brother in the U.S. was blown away by how my daughter learned the phases of the moon—something his child didn’t cover until middle school! It’s incredible how much she absorbs while having fun."
Chug
Our 5 year old son came home from camp and couldn’t stop talking about everything he learned about blood! In just one week, he absorbed more than an entire year at Gan. It’s amazing how ChefLab makes learning stick—he’s excited, engaged, and already asking what’s next."
Camp
Both of my children are attending the Afternoon Academy at ChefLab, and I think that choosing this option rather than the public option is one of the best decisions I have made for my kids. The children receive a first rate education, in a fun environment that the kids love. Nina is a wonderful educator and her team is is clearly aligned with her values and pedagogical standards
Afternoon Academy
My daughter is so happy to be in a place where she's learning and feels independent and I'm thrilled to have her in an after school activity that is both fun and educational. Nina is remarkable and and we are excited each week to see what her dreamteam has in store. Amazing!
Chug
ChefLab has shaped our son into a confident, curious, and thriving 8 -year-old. Over years (beginning as young as 4) ChefLab gave him the gift of belonging—he found acceptance, joy, and a space to grow beyond what we imagined. The team didn’t just nurture his personality; but fueled his endless curiosity and turned learning into an adventure of exploration and creativity."
Afternoon Academy
This program is unmatched in creativity, care, and heart. Every day brought something new and exciting, and watching my child’s enthusiasm grow was pure joy. The projects, the love, the attention—it all creates a space where learning becomes something magical.
Afternoon Academy
My daughter is so happy to be in a place where she's learning and feels independent and I'm thrilled to have her in an after school activity that is both fun and educational. Nina's staff is so wonderful and patient and we are excited every day to hear how much she is learning in such a short amount of time. It truly is amazing!
Afternoon Acdemy
I’m blown away by how much my child has learned—every lesson makes her more curious about the world. From asking why ice cream melts to exploring how the moon moves, she’s seeing everything around her through new eyes. ChefLab doesn’t just teach facts—it inspires wonder.
Chug