Family Life

At Kehillath Israel, we believe that some of the most meaningful moments of Jewish life begin with our youngest members. From a child’s first Shabbat experience to friendships formed around a holiday table, from learning together to simply running through our halls with a smile, our youth and family community is a place where Jewish life is meant to be lived—not just learned about. We create opportunities for children and families to feel known, welcomed, and connected, while giving them the space to discover what Judaism means to them.

Our youth programs bring together learning, celebration, friendship, and belonging in ways that meet families where they are.

Below is our full Family Calendar, Shabbat Programming, and Helpful Links

Youth Shabbat

Nitzanim: Our weekly Shabbat morning program for children ages 0-4 and their families includes Shabbat songs, prayer, and movement. Our celebration includes Kiddush and HaMotzi (blessings over wine and challah). Families are then invited to join us for the conclusion of the main service in the Sanctuary, followed by Kiddush lunch in the Social Hall.

Cuddle Up Shabbat: Our Friday evening  program for children ages 7 – under

Family Shabbats: October 2, February 12, and May 15

Shabbat Kolot

Shabbat Kolot (Shabbat of Voices) is a collaborative KI + Washington Square Minyan initiative that celebrates the many ways children and families experience Jewish life on Shabbat. Rather than asking every child to participate in the same program, families choose the experience that best fits their needs while remaining part of one shared community. Throughout the morning, the community gathers together, branches into different experiences, and reunites through prayer, music, learning, Kiddush, and relationship-building. Together, we will celebrate multiple authentic pathways into Jewish life and Shabbat; empower families to choose the experience that best fits their children; build a clear progression from childhood engagement into teen leadership; and much more.  LEARN MORE HERE.

The World We Want
A Teen-Driven Jewish Citizenship & Service Club
For Ages 13 though High School | Begins Sept. 27

What does it mean to live a meaningful and purposeful-driven Jewish life today? The World We Want explores that question through 10-monthly sessions with Rabbi Hamilton and a range of special guest instructors. Meeting on Sunday evenings at KI from 5:30–6:50PM, the teen-led program drawing on insights from the high school pilot of The Tell Institute creates a welcoming space at the close of the weekend to learn, talk, and connect over a light dinner. Each session will be student-focused and interactive, with Chevruta (partner) learning and timely questions that invite teens to think deeply about Judaism, the world around them, and their own lives. Every gathering will offer a takeaway and a Jewish practice to carry forward. LEARN MORE HERE.

Quick Links

KI Preschool

KI Religious School

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