Growing Jewish Roots: Programs for Young Families

Growing Jewish Roots: Programs For Families with Young Children

Welcome to Your Jewish Community in the Western Suburbs
 

Brit & Baby Naming Ceremonies

Mark the sacred moment of welcoming your child into the Jewish community with a meaningful ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Learn About Brit & Baby Naming Ceremonies →

Shorashim: Monthly Tot Program (Ages 0-3)

We see our youngest learners as the Shorashim of Etz Chaim (Roots of our Tree of Life). This class full of music, stories, art, and free play will meet monthly from September through May from 9:45-10:45 am, for tots ages 0-3 and their adults.

KIDdish Club (Ages 0-7)

A special monthly gathering during the school year where your little ones can experience Shabbat in an age-appropriate, joyful way while connecting with other families.

Sunday Bagel Breakfasts

Sunday mornings during Religious School, 9:15-10:30 am, come by for free bagels, cream cheese, and lox. The Shorashim classroom is open for play. This opportunity is perfect for families with children of all ages to start their week with community and connection. Drop in anytime – no reservations needed.

Shabbat Services Activities & Babysitting

At Congregation Etz Chaim we always encourage children to join services. We hope that kids will sit with their parents and participate. We hope that you will take advantage of the activities at the Quiet | Create Station, located at the back of the sanctuary, where kids and adults alike are welcome to use our Mindful Coloring Kits, Hebrew Sudoku, fidgets from the Sensory Bin, or picture books, and bring them back to their seats. 

We understand that for some families, having children in the sanctuary for services is not a possibility. We offer babysitting services upon request in our PreK Room (Room 3) for children 4th grade and younger. Babysitting requests must be made through registration for the Shabbat service by the Wednesday before the service. 

Learn More About Shabbat Services →

Tuition-Free Religious School

Planning ahead? Our nationally accredited religious school operates on a tuition-free model with just a $165 annual book and supply fee. Learn More About Our Hebrew School →