Celebrations for Children

Children can explore what Being Jewish and Doing Jewish means to them through Jewish culture, literature, history, values and ethics at their own level.

Visit Kol Hadash for children-friendly Jewish celebrations throughout the year. Parents, grandparents and guests are always welcome! All family holiday celebrations are free and open to everyone.

Note: Due to COVID precautions in 2021 and 2022, some of these plans will be adjusted for health and safety.

For more information, contact our administrator, Jeremy Owens, at info@KolHadash.com, or 847/383-5184.

Rosh Hashana Family Service

A wonderful way for families to celebrate together in a relaxed and child-friendly atmosphere. Intended for families with children ages 5-11 (and parents/grandparents), but younger children are very welcome — we have a high noise tolerance!

High Holidays for Tots

A fun way to sing, dance and play our way into the Jewish New Year! Intended for families with children ages 0-5 (and parents/grandparents).

Yom Kippur Family Service

An opportunity to reflect on new beginnings together. Intended for families with children ages 5-11 (and parents/grandparents), but younger children are very welcome — we have a high noise tolerance!

Sukkot Family Celebration

At Kol Hadash our celebration lives outdoors, where we gather in and around our sukkah [holiday hut] sharing stories and singing songs.

Hanukkah Family Celebration

Our warm and welcoming Hanukkah celebration is open to everyone and will shed “new light” on an old tradition. Advance registration is required and there is a small fee to cover the cost of lunch.

Tu B’Shevat Family Fruit Seder

A wonderful celebration of the cycling of the seasons and our connections to the natural world. Intended for all ages.

Purim Family Celebration

A grand time dressing in costume and playing games, while celebrating the triumph of good over evil in the biblical tale of Queen Esther. Nominal cost for carnival tickets. Intended for all ages.

Sunday School Passover Family Seder

A fun and casual setting for children to learn about Passover's interesting history, and customs. Intended for all ages

PRE-SCHOOL DISCOVERY PROGRAM

Once a month, children ages 2-6 years old (and their grown-ups) enjoy hands-on activities, arts and crafts projects, free play and music — with a fun Jewish holiday theme. Free for both members and nonmembers. Younger siblings welcome.

Parent-Tot Storytimes: Holidays 101

See the holidays come alive for your children with stories, songs, and activities led by Rabbi Adam Chalom and Education Director Ilana Shaffer. Storytimes are intended for children ages 0-2 (older children welcome) and their grown-up and are held at different local bookstores.

Our Storytimes are supported by jBaby Chicago. All sessions are free of charge. Learn more.  RSVP for storytime on JUF's website.