Mishpachot (Families): Programs for Families and Children
As my family planted for me, so do I for my children.
Talmud, Taanit 23A
Families are the roots of Emanu-El! We know that these first few years of your child’s life are such an essential time to find your kehillah (community) and believe that we are always stronger together. Our goal is to cultivate environments for families to meet, nosh and pray, so that you can find lasting connections with one another. Our hope is that you will find other families to enjoy Shabbat dinners with, celebrate lifecycle events, have meaningful conversations with and to build a sense of community that will help shape who your children become!
Please take a look below at several opportunities to find your people.
You can reach out to Sarah Balagey for more information!
Mishpachot at Emanu-El
Mazel Tots
Mondays starting October 16!
10:00-11:00 am
Dive into a world of fun and connection at our weekly baby group! Join us for Havdalah and music led by the renowned Jonathan Bayer, and quality bonding time for both children and parents/caregivers/grandparents. Our goal is to foster lasting connections, nurture a sense of community, and provide space for little ones to explore and play. Emma Kelly will be available to kibbitz, answer questions, and share valuable learning opportunities. Come be a part of our vibrant, supportive community and watch your child grow alongside new friends!
Our programming meets the four main developmental domains on infant development as highlighted in California Infant/Toddler Learning & Development Foundations (2009).
- Social-Emotional Development Domain
- Language Development Domain
- Cognitive Development Domain
- Perceptual and Motor Development Domain
We offer sessions for babies and toddlers (0-24 months). Our weekly classes will be supported by esteemed early childhood educator, Emma Kelly and music educator Jonathan Bayer.
Each session will include nosh, music with Jonathan Bayer, and ample time for children and parents to connect and explore. Our goal is to make lasting connections, build a sense of community and allow the space for our children to play. The goal in these programs is to support community building and a strong parent support system, therefore we ask that each child is accompanied by their parent(s).
Cost
Member: $10 per session — Drop-ins Welcome!
Non-Member: $18 per session — Drop-ins Welcome!
Feel free to email [email protected] to find out about space or with any questions.
Tot Shabbat
First Friday of the month! Next Tot Shabbat is November 3, 5:00-6:00 pm.
Join us in our new location at St. John’s! Just across the street from our beloved temple. Come by at 5:00 pm to connect with fellow families while children nosh. Followed by a joyful and engaging 30-minute service from 5:30-6:00 pm.
PJs highly encouraged!
No membership required! ALL kids 6 and under, their adults and older siblings are welcome, free of charge.
*Registration required, preferably in advance but, if unable to register, please come and we will take your information at the gate.*
Coffee Dates for Parents!
Monthly Mishpachot Meet Ups
Next meet-up is Friday, November 17, 10:30 am at Breck’s!
On parental leave? Have a flexible schedule? This is a chance for families to come together and connect with each other. We’ll discuss Judaism, child-rearing, and our lives, while also enjoying some coffee and pastries. Come join us for some meaningful conversations and new friendships!
Children/Babies are welcome to join us!
Contact Sarah Balagey for more details!
Shabbat B’Gan
Look for the next date in January 2024, 10:30 am
Semi-Monthly
Join us for a delightful, family-friendly gathering in the heart of nature at Argonne Park! Mingle, nosh, and connect. Bring your picnic blanket and family for a fantastic opportunity to meet and connect with fellow families in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. There will not be a service, however, there will be a delicious light lunch spread and refreshing beverages for everyone to enjoy.
This event is for young families with children under 6.
Park Shabbat
November 18, 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Spark Social
Semi-Monthly
Looking for a unique and spiritual way to welcome Shabbat? Look no further! We invite you to join us for Park Shabbat, an exciting new tradition that brings our community together in the serene embrace of nature. With the acoustic stylings of our musicians, clergy, a bouncy house, and light nosh. This is a great opportunity to join in community and celebrate Shabbat, together.
This event is for young families with children under 6.
Jewish Baby Network
Jewish Baby Network is a pluralistic community where parents of babies and toddlers from all kinds of families and backgrounds connect, share, and celebrate together. We often partner with JBN for Shabbat activities.
To hear about more about their events and resources, connect with JBN here. You can also reach out to the JBN SF Program Manager, Jeni Clancy, with any questions.
Free Jewish Books
Sign up for the PJ Library, and receive free, award-winning books that celebrate Jewish values and culture for families with children from birth through 12 years old.
