The Village is our place for families with young children (ages 0 – 5) to connect, learn, and celebrate Judaism, while meeting new friends and having fun together. Throughout the year we come together to sing, pray, dance, and craft. Here at the Village, there is something for everyone! Come experience TGIS (Thank Goodness it’s Shabbat), held in our spacious outdoor garden and courtyard. Take part in one of our festive Havdalah themed events or holiday block parties.
All are welcome at Village gatherings: Temple Israel members, non-members, interfaith families, partnered, adopting, or single parents, LGBTQ+ parents, Black Jews, White Jews, and Jews of color. Come check us out!
We are happy to validate your parking if you park in the MASCO lot on Longwood Avenue.
What We Offer
Tot Rock Shabbat: Home Edition (weekly)
You don’t need to leave your house to celebrate Shabbat with your TI community! Every Friday at 5:00 p.m., we meet briefly on Zoom to light candles, say the blessings over juice and challah, sing our favorite Shabbat songs, and bring the joy of Shabbat into our homes. Grandparents are always welcome!
TGIS: Thank Goodness It’s Shabbat
TGIS is a joyful and interactive service that meets on select Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m. for anyone between the ages of 6 days and 6 years. Led by beloved local musician Wayne Potash and the Temple Israel clergy, TGIS includes dancing, singing, playing, and praying. On the first, third, and fifth Saturday of the month, we meet onsite at Temple Israel, and if the weather allows we gather outside in the garden. Come enjoy bagels, cream cheese, and Shabbat challah.
Havdalah Themed Family Events
Throughout the year we come together for Havdalah. From craft nights to pizza parties to singalongs and more, we offer multiple ways to connect. Many of our family events take place in Temple Israel’s spacious outdoor garden.
Holiday Celebrations
The Village joyfully celebrates Jewish holidays as they occur, with music, crafts, puppetry, prayer, and more. You will always find a member of our clergy at Village events.
Neighborhood Meet-ups
We love meeting at local parks for organized activities, such as soccer or creative movement. We make sure to leave room for playground time, snacks, and schmoozing!
Rainbow Room Playspace
Families are welcome to bring their children ages 0 – 3 to the Rainbow Room (aka Room 105), allowing you and your toddler a new, different, and safe space to play. We have puzzles, a dollhouse, board books, blocks, trucks and more. Diapers and snacks are also available, so please help yourself. Arrange a Rainbow Room playdate with your child’s friends! Feel free to drop by the Rainbow Room whenever the Temple is open. No reservations necessary.