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 8-14 months old 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. Aptly timed so you can join Welcoming Shabbat right after!
K’Ton Ton Time 2026 Dates: 10/16/2026-12/18/26
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
SIMCHAT TORAH TEKES
Join us to celebrate Simchat Torah with crafts, games, music and dancing with the Torahs!
Saturday, October 3rd at BHS
Starting at 5:45pm
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!
2026 Dates: 10/17, 11/7, 12/5
This program is for families with children 0-5 years old.
INTENTIONAL PARENTING WORKSHOP WITH HAVA NABABY
What words do you most want the teacher to use to describe your child at their first parent-teacher conference?
You’re invited to join other expecting and new parents for an opportunity to engage with big questions about the person and parent you want to be. Who is the “me” you’re bringing to this moment? What are your core values? How are you cultivating those values in your own life so you can be a role model for your children? Connect with others who have similar aspirations to become more thoughtful parents. This workshop is aimed at expecting parents and families with young children.
Monday, October 19th, 7-8:30pm at BHS
with option to join for dinner at 6:30pm