MOMS AND BABIES (from left) Anna and Molly Kodesch, Michelle and Levi Katz, Rachel and Talia Posner, and Sarah and Adirah Greenstein hang out at a recent free Friday playgroup at Congregation Neveh Shalom. Sessions resume Jan. 9 starting at 9 a.m. each Friday at the synagogue, 2900 SW Peaceful Lane.

 

MICHELLE CAPLAN PHOTO

Neveh Shalom Babies expands

By JEWISH REVIEW

article created on: 2009-01-01T00:00:00

Neveh Shalom Babies is a newly expanded group at Congregation Neveh Shalom for all families with at least one child age 2 and younger.

“We have expanded our programming to outreach more to our newest and youngest families in the community,” said Caron Blau Rothstein, CNS program coordinator.

As part of the expanded programming, Neveh Shalom invites all parents of young children to a free, weekly drop-in playgroup on Fridays at 9 a.m. at the synagogue. The first Friday of each month includes having a CNS staff member as a special guest to share a story, song or activity.

“We invite parents in the Jewish community with children 2 and under to join us for our weekly playgroups on Friday mornings,” said Sarah Greenstein, one of the organizers of the group, which is chaired by Sarah Mitnick and Hilary Barthold. “It’s a great opportunity for moms (and dads too) to build a community of parents as we watch our children climb, tumble and interact in a safe and mellow indoor environment, especially during these cold, wet winter months. “
“In the few months of this playgroup’s life, parents have been able to make new friends, learn about what’s going on with young families in the synagogue and the community, and watch our babies and toddlers grow together,” added Greenstein.

The group also are holds periodic workshops. In September Neveh Shalom Babies hosted a pre-High Holiday session and last month the group held a session on the “December Dilemma” co-sponsored by Jewish Family and Child Service with more than 20 participants. A final workshop of the program year will be in the spring, though the topic has not been selected yet.

Rothstein said the group also has a first babies Listserve and activities monthly.

“Sometimes these new families join existing CNS events, sometimes they have their own potlucks/get togethers,” she said.  “It’s a great way for young families to get acquainted with one another and with CNS.”

“Finally, we are having our New Babies Shabbat on Saturday morning Jan. 10 to honor and welcome all babies born in the past year to parents and grandparents with a connection to CNS,” said Rothstein. “They will all be called up by Rabbi Daniel Isaak for a special aliyah, will receive adorable gift bags and honors at our Kiddush lunch.”    

For more information, contact Rothstein at 503-246-8831, ext. 139 or crothstein@nevehshalom.org.