For Young Families

Our Congregation offers a number of opportunities for young families to get involved. 

From services to social events, there is something for everyone.

Tot Shabbat – Several times throughout the year, children from birth to age 6 and their parents are invited to participate in an hour-long program.  Often times these are centered around learning about a particular holiday and Shabbat.  There is always music, a story, an activity and a snack.  Semi-controlled chaos is the rule of the day, but oh what fun!  Here is a sample of one of our Tot Shabbat programs.

Religious School and Hebrew School – Our families look forward to enrolling their children in our wonderful Sunday School and Hebrew School classes.  It’s a great opportunity to meet and mingle with other Jewish children and their families throughout the Quad City communities.  Many activities supporting Jewish life and Jewish holidays are sponsored and planned by the Religious and Hebrew Schools.  For more information on these programs click  HERE.

Musical and Kabbalat Shabbat – Many times throughout the year, families and friends celebrate Shabbat with a musical service followed by a family dinner.

Family Services – These Shabbat Services are led by our Religious School and Hebrew School children.  They are wonderful services giving our children confidence and pride as they begin to participate in our weekly Shabbat Services. 

Bring Your Teacher (Caregiver) to Shabbat – This is an example of special Shabbat Services that focus on children and families.  We encourage our children to invite a public school teacher or special caregiver to attend while many of the children participate in the service.  This is a wonderful way to expose our non-Jewish friends to a better understanding of our Jewish faith and traditions. 

Youth Group  – Children in Grades 6-8 and Grades 9-12 are invited to participate in numerous youth group activities.  As the children progress to the older group they become part of the NFTY tradition in the Reform Jewish movement.  Along with local activities, they may choose to attend fall and spring chaverahs in other regional communities.  

Performing a Mitzvah – There are many opportunities throughout the year for families to perform mitzvot with the Temple family.  Whether its an official Mitzvah Day at the Temple, raising funds for the Annual CROP Walk, preparing and serving dinners at the Café on Vine or packaging nutritious grains and vitamins for a “Kids Against Hunger” project, its never too early to teach about one of the main tenets of Reform Judaism – Tikkun Olam – repairing the world.