Family Center

Summer Day Camp takes place for six weeks in June and July. Children aged 18 months to 5 years may participate on a week-to-week basis, allowing families to fit day camp into their summer schedules.

Tot Shabbat is an informal way to welcome Shabbat with music, prayer, and stories. The evening starts at 6 p.m. on the first Friday of each month in Freehof Hall with candle lighting, kiddush, and motzi. Dinner, with potluck salads and sides, follows and the evening is rounded out with a brief, age-appropriate worship service will be held after dinner. Stay for dessert and socializing. No charge. RSVP to Mimsie Leyton required.

Mishpacha Musica (Family Music) is a brief, musical children’s service facilitated by Jewish educator and songleader Beth Goldstein. Free drop-in babysitting is offered afterward for parents who would like to continue their Shabbat worship. Sessions are held on the second Saturday of the month from 9:30 until 10 a.m. in the Multi Purpose Room. 

Mishpacha Mornings is a family education program is designed for children 2 to 5 years who are accompanied by an adult. Participants meet one Sunday each month from September through May (10:30-11:30 a.m.) to learn about holidays and explore Jewish values through hands-on activities.

Parenting Series promotes healthy families by providing adults with a monthly opportunity to meet to discuss parenting from both a Jewish and developmental perspective. Sessions are co-led by a rabbi and child development specialist. While parents meet, children can play, sing, and cook in a nearby preschool classroom. Meetings are held Sunday mornings from 10:30 until 11:30 a.m. For more information, please contact: Mimsie Leyton, Family Center Director, at (412) 621-6566 or by email.

First Friends is designed for infants and toddlers accompanied by a caring adult. It meets once a week over two eight-week sessions. While the children play, adults can discuss child development and parenting issues. Evening meetings, which include dinner, are offered to accommodate working parents.