The Parenting Center at the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue is a place for children age 0-3 and their parents to come together for support, education, community and fun!
More than just a playgroup, we offer ongoing and one-time programs, lectures and classes designed to provide resources for the unique challenges faced by anyone raising young children in NYC, and provide opportunities for families to engage with Jewish holidays, traditions, and values. The BHS Parenting Center programs are open to both members and nonmembers. We invite you and your child to become part of this lively community!
Please email our Assistant Director for Early Childhood Programs & Events, Julia Rundbaken, at julia.rundbaken@bhsbrooklyn.org to join our mailing list. Please include your child’s name and date of birth.
PARENTING CENTER
PROGRAMMING
On-Going Classes
BOKER 2’S
This is a year-long partial separation class designed to expose children to the preschool and to provide a bridge between “play classes” and school. Children and caregivers join our educators for a 90-minute interactive and engaging Jewish experience that incorporates music, movement, art, literacy and Jewish holidays and values. Toward the winter, we begin a gentle separation that meets the needs of each child.
Please note: Boker 2’s is full for the 2026-2027 semester. Please click below if you are interested in the 2027-2028 school year.
This program is for: Children who are between 18-26 months by September 2027
SHALOM YELADIM
This is a weekly class for grown-ups and children together. The thoughtful, innovative curriculum includes structured free-play, along with art projects, music, movement, and snack and circle time, giving our students the chance to explore the classroom experience within a safe, nurturing environment. Jewish holiday celebrations and cultural themes are carefully integrated into each week’s program.
Please note: Shalom Yeladim is full for the 2026-2027 semester. Please click below if you are interested in the 2027-2028 school year.
This program is for: Children who are between 15-18 months by September 2027
K’TON TON TIME
A weekly playtime for little ones 15 months and under with their grown up. K’Ton Ton Time will include plenty of explorative play, music, and snacks as well as time in the toddler gym, all led by an experienced Early Childhood professional. Now offered 3 times a week with both morning and afternoon options available! Friday morning, you can join us after for Welcoming Shabbat!
Mondays & Thursdays: 12-3pm
Fridays: 10-11am, 1-3pm
K’Ton Ton Time 2026 Dates: 10/16/2026-12/18/26
This program is intended for children 0-14 months old with a caregiver
Drop-In Programming
WELCOMING SHABBAT
This is a free weekly drop-in program. Infants to age 4, parents, grandparents, caregivers, and friends are all invited to come together for this sing-along Shabbat led by Rabbi Serge Lippe! Each Friday morning, we sing Shabbat songs, say the Blessings, and share a special kiddush of grape juice and challah together.
Fridays
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
This program is for: Children 0-4 years
Special Events
BUBBIE’S BOOK CLUB RETURNS!
Our beloved puppet, Bubbie, is rested and ready to read stories, sing songs and enjoy playtime with you!
Sunday, November 15th, 9:30-10:30am
Upcoming Dates: 12/13, 1/31/27
This program is free and intended for families with children birth - age 4.
TOT SHABBAT
Every first Saturday of the month, join BHS and Tkiya for a fun and free musical Shabbat service filled with our favorite Shabbat songs, stories and more!
Saturday, December 5, 9:30-10:30am
Upcoming Dates: 1/9/27, 2/6/27
This program is for families with children 0-5 years old.
BOOK FAIR PREVIEW PARTY
Our Preview Party is just for grown-ups, featuring an appearance from author Grant Ginder! This is your time to sip, snack and browse before the hustle and bustle of the Book Fair!
Saturday, December 5, 6:30-8pm
BHS PRESCHOOL FESTIVAL OF BOOKS!
Join us for a fun, engaging and interactive morning featuring plenty of books to purchase (Chanukah gifts!), games to play, live auction and a surprise guest appearance!
Sunday, December 6, 10am-1:30pm
TOT CHANUKAH CANDLE LIGHTING
Join Rabbi Bailey Romano for a singalong, candle lighting and yummy food! You bring a menorah, we’ll supply the latkes and donuts!
Thursday, December 10th, 4-5pm