Special Programs for All Ages

Join us for one of our many family events such as Shabbat Family Diners, Passover Seder or Family Fun Day.

An introduction to Jewish culture, holidays and traditions is explored as an on-going part of the educational program at JCYS Michael R. Lutz Family Center.

Jewish Culture/Events

Shabbat - Although Shabbat (or the Sabbath) lasts approximately from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday, we celebrate the Sabbath at the Center every Friday morning. All rooms get together for a Shabbat program. They light candles, recite traditional blessings and sing songs. On Shabbat the children enjoy Challah bread and grape juice for their morning snack.

Rosh Hashanah - The Jewish year begins with Rosh Hashanah which usually falls in September on the first day of Tishri in the Jewish Calendar. The children enjoy apples and honey which are symbolic of hope for a sweet year.

Yom Kippur - This is the most solemn holiday of the year-- the Day of Atonement. At this time, we discuss the nice things we can do for others during the New Year.

Sukkot - The "Feast of Tabernacles" recalls the journey of the Jews from Egypt the Promised Land when they lived in tents and booths, or Sukkot. The harvest season is symbolized by the Lulav (palm branch) and Etrog (citrus). During this week at the center, we decorate our Sukkah with fruit and greenery, and enjoy our snacks outdoors, Parent volunteers are needed in putting up our own Sukkah on the playground.

Simchat Torah - On Simchat Torah, the reading of the Torah is completed, then immediately begins again with Genesis. This symbolizes the fact that the study of the Torah has no beginning and no end. The children parade their holiday flags and symbols.

Chanukah - "The Festival of Lights" celebrates the Maccabean victory, when brave Judah Maccabee and a small band of followers saved the Jewish nation from the Syrians. For eight days each year, the Chanukah Menorah, or eight-branched candelabra, is lighted to recall their re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem and to give thanks for the great miracle of the survival of the Jewish people.

Tu B' Shevat - (Israeli Arbor Day) On Tu B'Shevat we celebrate the New Year of the trees and our own belief in the future of the world. As Jews, we have a kinship with trees, especially with fruit trees. Trees are a symbol of life, a symbol of the Jewish people. We eat dried fruits and plant trees in honor of the holiday.

Purim - Purim is the happiest of all the holidays, commemorating how Queen Esther and her uncle Mordecai saved the Jews of Persia from a plot by the Prime Minister, Hamen, to destroy them. We eat Hamantashen, a pastry in the shape of a three cornered hat, which the children enjoy making at the center. The children are also encouraged to wear costumes to our Purim Carnival in celebration of this happy holiday. We also collect food to give to the poor in honor of this holiday.

Passover - (Pesach) Passover commemorates the experiences and ordeals of slavery in Egypt, and the Exodus following them. The Seder is a special family occasion. Prayers and songs from the Haggadah are read at a seder, and special foods are served. One of the best known foods is the Matzah or unleavened bread. Our lunch and snack menus are adjusted during Passover in observance of this holiday.

Shavout - Shavout, a thanksgiving and harvest feast, also commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. It is a custom to decorate the house with plants and flowers -- greens recall the green mountain of Sinai where Moses received the Commandments. We enjoy sweets with our friends.

Although we do not celebrate Christmas or Easter, we will celebrate Thanksgiving, Halloween, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Valentine's Day, and Earth Day.

Family Events There will be several family events over the course of the school year. We encourage all of our families to join in the fun. The children enjoy having you at school and you'll enjoy the opportunity to meet the other parents and take part in the festivities. These events, such as our Chanukah Party, Passover Seder, Shabbat Dinners and end of year celebrations will be publicized through the center bulletins before the date of each event.

Winter Camp and Spring Break Camp

When CPS students are off from school, what better place to have fun than JCYS. JCYS staff puts together days of fun activities that includes field trips, sports, arts and crafts and more. Call the JCYS Michael R. Lutz Family Center for information on the next upcoming seasonal break. 773-281-2533.

Twinkle Toes

For children age 3-5 years

This dance and movement class is designed especially for children age 3 to 5 years. We provide a great way for your child to have fun and be fit as well as encourage self-confidence, coordination, and creativity. Classes consist of pre-ballet and creative movement and are given weekly at the JCYS Michael R. Lutz Family Center. Class size is limited to 12 students. Each lesson is 30 minutes long. The last day of class is our "mini-recital" and parent watch day.

Instructor: Maria Cancilla

For Crying Out Loud

This music class is for children 6 to 24 months with parents or caregivers. A music and movement class with renowned Chicago Musician, Susan Salidor, this program incorporates musical instruments, singing and movement for your child's enjoyment. Class size is limited to 10 pairs.

Instructor: Susan Salidor

Please call for registration information. 773-281-2533