Kid's Services

A special note about young children in the main service– we want them and need them in the Sanctuary. Not only does their involvement add to the spirit of our prayers, it provides them with experiences and memories that will be with them for the rest of their lives. For many of us, being with our families in the Sanctuary are among our fondest childhood memories, something we’d like our own children to have. If you choose to bring toys for your children, please be respectful of Shabbat and holiday observance within the synagogue (no electronics, coloring, etc).

In addition to their inclusion in the sanctuary, we enrich children’s Jewish identity through our engaging Shabbat and holiday programs specifically for children. Both programs begin at 11:00 am downstairs. 

Tot Shabbat

Preschoolers begin to learn and love Judaism through storytelling, singing, and hands-on activities. Families join for songs, stories and more in an interactive service for tots. Ran on the same days as Mini Minyan, Tot Shabbats are lead by either Katie Shelef or John McLaughlin on the dates below.

Mini Minyan

Mini Minyan is a slower learner's service for elementary school age children. The service will include Shabbat prayers and a "D'var and Discussion" in place of the Torah service. Mini Minyan is led by the Youth & Family Coordinator Ben Brent.

Dates through May 2025

February 8th and 22nd

March 15th

April 5th (Tot Shabbat Only) and 26th*

May 10th and 24th

* BIRS School Shabbat

For questions about Youth Services, please contact the Youth & Family Coordinator Ben Brent at benb@bethisrael-aa.org