Special Programs/Services for Families with Young Kids
Play. Learn. Explore.
Attending synagogue helps young kids build a strong foundation in their faith, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within the Jewish community. It introduces them to traditions, values, and prayers while encouraging connection with peers. This early engagement nurtures spirituality, moral development, and pride in their cultural heritage.
Visitors are welcome!
My Special Someone & Me Music Class (occasional) Bring your littlest ones (10-20 months old) to an interactive and joyful music class happening periodically throughout the year.
Shabbat Katan, Young Family Service
(monthly, Saturday morning, Sept-Jun)
Shabbat Katan (Shabbat for the little ones) is a joyful and engaging program geared toward families with pre-school aged and younger children (older siblings are welcome too). This 45-minute program includes songs, dancing, stories, a Torah parade, simple blessings, and challah and juice too! Bring your friends and meet other families with small children as we celebrate Shabbat! All are welcome, and synagogue membership is not required.
Zamru Fri•PM and Potluck
(monthly, Friday, Sept-Jun)
Welcome Shabbat with a spirited, lively, uplifting service in the round with musical accompaniment. Sing along with familiar and new Jewish melodies from around the world. Stay for a pescatarian/dairy potluck Shabbat meal immediately after the service. (signup for potluck)
Young Family “Shabbatluck” (occasional) A kid-friendly Kabbalat Shabbat service and potluck dinner for families with children at a member’s home. Bring in Shabbat with songs followed by a pescatarian potluck Shabbat meal.
Hinei Mah Tov Family Service
(monthly, Saturday morning, Sept-Jun).
Hinei Mah Tov (How good it is!) is a family service geared towards children (2nd-7th grade) and their parents, grandparents, and caregivers. All JLC students attend, but visitors with and without kids are always welcome to join us. This is a highly participatory Shabbat service, structured for learners, incorporating prayer, song, and discussion.
Shomrei Outdoors (occasional)
Take a walk! Stroll nearby nature preserves with Shomrei friends and families and experience the beautiful connection between nature and Judaism. The walk is low-impact physically and suitable for mobile children and elderly. The walks is typically led by our Rabbinic Intern.
Parents' Night Out (ocassional)
Join other parents in our community for a kid-free night at someone’s home or out on the town to get to know one another or bond over a social activity.
Shomrei Preschool
Shomrei Preschool recognizes the importance of education in the first five years of a child’s life, which when nurtured properly, have the ability to pave the way for a lifetime of achievement and meaningful milestones. Our goal is to support young families on their path, whether you are looking to meet new friends, expose your family to the joys of Jewish holidays and traditions, or instill your child with confidence in his/her ability to explore, create, and learn.
Jewish Learning Center (JLC) Hebrew School
K - 1st Grade
Students will delight in discovering Jewish traditions through song, experiential Torah stories, and hands-on exploration of Israel. They will learn the customs, prayers, and traditions of Shabbat while celebrating the richness of Jewish culture. Our multi-sensory approach keeps children active, engaged, and connected with their friends and teachers in a positive, upbeat Jewish environment.
2nd - 7th Grades
Our curriculum centers on coming together as a community on Shabbat mornings. Students experience the rhythm of the Jewish week through prayers, Torah study, and meaningful peer connections. Developmentally appropriate davening, active games, and hands-on activities reinforce Torah, Jewish history, and Israel. We celebrate holidays, engage in lively discussions, and create parsha plays. Wednesdays focus on small group Hebrew instruction, enhancing prayer proficiency and confidence, alongside classes in Jewish ethics, values, Torah, and history, fostering a rich and engaging learning environment.
