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Youth & Families

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At Jewish Gateways, we’re all about learning as a family, making Judaism accessible, and connecting Jewish tradition to everyday life. We’re excited to welcome you into our inclusive community! Join us for an upcoming event, explore our learning programs, or schedule time to grab coffee with Rabbi Steph.

Family Programs

Felix.heic
Nourish and Nurture
Our monthly group for families with young children. We’ll connect, enjoy bagels and explore how to bring Jewish values into everyday family life in ways that feel personal and doable. Sessions include childcare!
0-Pre-K
Cora, Arusha and Sam.HEIC
Growing Together
Our alternative to your typical Hebrew school, Growing Together is all about learning as a family. We use art, music and play-based learning for kids, while parents participate in guided group discussions, modeling the value of lifelong learning. 
Pre-K-5th Grade
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B-Mitzvah
Our unique two-year B-Mitzvah program is personalized for each student (and includes parents!). We'll design a learning project, customized ritual or ceremony, and offer optional Hebrew study. We can go traditional or create something totally new.
6th-7th Grade
Family Programs registration

Upcoming Events

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Shabbat + Pizza in the Park

Friday, June 26 • 5:00-7:00 pm

Dracena Quarry Park, Piedmont

A fun Friday night Shabbat gathering for parents and kids! We'll start with evening blessings over juice and challah, followed by pizza. Kids can run free on the playground while parents relax and connect.

This casual family-friendly gathering is a great way to mingle with other Jewish Gateways families. For families with kids 0-7th grade.

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Summer Tot Shabbat

Friday, July 10 • 5:30-7:00 pm

Dracena Quarry Park, Piedmont

Celebrate Shabbat outdoors with music, movement, puppets, and connection. We will bring in Shabbat with challah and juice alongside our friends at Jewish Baby Network.​ This casual, tot-friendly gathering is a great way to meet and mingle with other families!​

For families with kids 0-5 years.

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Shabbat + Pizza in the Park

Friday, July 31 • 5:00-7:00 pm

Dracena Quarry Park, Piedmont

A fun Friday night Shabbat gathering for parents and kids! We'll start with evening blessings over juice and challah, followed by pizza. Kids can run free on the playground while parents relax and connect.

This casual family-friendly gathering is a great way to mingle with other Jewish Gateways families. For families with kids 0-7th grade.

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Making Your High Holidays Meaningful

Wednesday, August 26 • 7:00-8:30 pm PT

Online

Join Rabbi Steph and other parents for an evening of learning, conversation, and preparation for the High Holiday season. Explore the major themes of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, share ideas for engaging children in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways, and make space for our own reflection as parents and individuals.

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Hands-On High Holidays

Sunday, August 30 • 3:00-5:00 pm

Oakland

We'll braid our own round Rosh Hashanah challah to take home while exploring the traditions, symbols, and themes of the High Holiday season. This program is designed to help children and adults feel excited, connected, and engaged as the holidays approach.

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Reverse Tashlich

Saturday, Sept. 6 • 10:30 am-12:30 pm

Berkeley

On Rosh Hashanah, we gather at the water's edge for Tashlich, symbolically casting away our mistakes as we begin the new year. Reverse Tashlich takes that one step further by removing actual trash and pollution from our shoreline to help heal the world. Join us for this family-friendly hands-on cleanup.

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Growing Together Trial Day

Saturday, Sept. 19 • 10:00 am-12:30 pm

Berkeley

Are you curious if we're a good fit? Sign up for a Trial Day, where you can experience the first session of Growing Together before deciding to register.

We’d love for you to join us and get a feel for what our community is all about!

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Virtual Meet with Rabbi Steph

Curious about our programs? Want to talk through Jewish rituals, holidays, or creating more Jewish connection at home? Schedule a virtual 1-1 with Rabbi Steph.

 

If the listed times don’t work for you, feel free to email me and we can find another time to connect.

Check Out Our Family Calendar!

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Stay in the Know

Sign up for our Family Newsletter!

On the fourth Sunday of each month, check your inbox for invitations to join us for upcoming family events and programs. We’ll also include helpful resources, holiday guides, and creative activities for you and your family.

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