For our youngest community members, we have many fun ways for them to start engaging with their community. It starts with monthly Tot Shabbats and Shabbat Sing-a-longs, as well as our popular Storytime and Craft program. All ages are very welcome for services – we have a playroom and a play area in the sanctuary itself with quiet toys and books. We also have a variety of holiday programs and social programs throughout the year for families for kids and adults to get to know each other.
Temple Shalom has had a popular Tot Shabbat program for over 10 years. It is run by a preschool teacher who uses puppets and props, tells stories, does a Sabbath-appropriate craft and sings Hebrew songs. She also has created her own tot prayer book that includes several common prayers that she does with the kids each month along with marching with stuffed Torahs.
Shabbat with Children
Tot Shabbat (0-5 years)
Second Saturday of the month at 11 AM
In a relaxed and fun atmosphere, introduce your child to the joy of Shabbat with kid-friendly prayer, songs, puppets, stories and a special Shabbat craft. The kids can get up and move around; you don’t need to worry if they wander in and out of the room.
Shabbat Yeladim (6-8 years)
Second Saturday of the month at 10:30 AM
This a fun introduction to Shabbat morning services. We include prayers, stories, and songs, and encourage all of the kids to get involved. Parents are invited, but not required, to attend.
Junior Congregation (pre-B’nei Mitzvah)
Second Saturday of the month at 10:30 AM
Kids have an opportunity to run the service themselves, take out a special Torah, recite the blessings, learn the melodies, and act out the weekly Parsha.
Shabbat Mishpacha
Every third Friday of the month at 6:45 pm.
During the school year, Hebrew school students help lead prayers. The sermon engages all ages, and parts of the service have a bit more explanation. Oneg (dessert) to follow, of course!
Shabbat Sing-alongs with Rabbi Dell’Era
Get your wiggles out, shake your sillies out, all while experiencing the joy of shabbat. Kids 0-7 (with parent) are invited to sing, and dance, to shabbat songs. Led by Rabbi Dell’Era on guitar.
When:
For 15 minutes, right after dinner, during our once-per-month community Friday night Shabbat dinners. Check the calendar for the next dinner.
AND
One Saturday shabbat morning per month from 11:30 AM-noon. Stay for kiddush lunch with the whole congregation after sing-a-long. This is either the 3rd or 4th Saturday of each month. Check the calendar [link] for exact schedule.
Please check the calendar (or call the office) as occasionally dates and times change due to holidays, B’nei Mitzvot, or other happenings.