Families

Shababa

Shababa is a fun, engaging “service” for our youngest generation. All children 5 and under (and their siblings, parents, and grandparents) are welcome to experience the joy of Shabbat with dancing, singing, stories, and a chicken nugget dinner. PJs are optional! Join Rabbi Ilana Garber in this free monthly program – part of our early childhood education.

RSVPs are not required, but are encouraged to enable us to better plan for dinner. Sponsorship opportunities are available – for just $50 you can celebrate a child’s birthday by sponsoring that month’s Shababa. To RSVP or sponsor a dinner, please contact Rabbi Ilana Garber at igarber@bethelwh.org or (860) 233-9696.

Mini-Minyan

It’s the next step for our Shababa graduates. Kids ages 5-8 join Barbara Checknoff for Friday night prayers and stories. Then they join our Shababa friends for chicken nugget dinner.

Mazel Tots

Mazel Tots is our all-new Shabbat morning experience for children up to age 5. Master Educator Jennifer Schwartzman leads our youngest friends and their parents in a spirited new setting. Share meaningful experiences with prayers and Torah stories, and join us as Jewish traditions and stories come to life through play! This is free to the entire community. Parents must stay with children during this hour and all are welcome to the bima in the sanctuary at noon for kiddush and a treat. Contact Rabbi Ilana Garber at (860) 233-9696 for more information.

Shabbat Club

Our Shabbat Club makes it cool for kids @shul. Created by Beth El parents Jason Kay and Alan Tuvin, SC is for kids in grades 1-5. Songs, prayers, stories, games, snacks (did we say snacks?!!) and more make Shabbat Club the place to be! Attendance incentives help too!