Shabbat ShaPLAY — a monthly program for young families

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning

In the midst of a global pandemic, when young families have felt somewhat disconnected from one another, Temple Shalom has created a space for connection and Jewish engagement. For example, Temple Shalom’s Shabbat ShaPLAY, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples.

Rabbi Boxman and her family enjoying Shabbat ShaPLAY.

Shabbat ShaPLAY is a program geared to young Jewish families with children between the ages of infant to 5 years old. Families are invited to join together with Rabbi Boxman and Miss Jane one Shabbat morning a month at a local park, where the students play on the jungle gym while parents enjoy coffee and socializing.

Following arrival, Rabbi Boxman invites families to each take a Shabbat ShaPLAY bag, which includes a picnic blanket, snacks, an individual challah and musical instruments. The families each spread out their picnic blanket on a large lawn and children find their seats. For the next 30 minutes, Miss Jane and Rabbi Boxman lead the families in a musical Shabbat celebration. Children get up and dance, recite the kiddush and motzi, and hear a story. The morning ends with more playing and socially distanced socializing.

Miss Jane encourages everyone to get up and dance.

Families enjoy singing along to Shabbat tunes.

The attendance at Shabbat ShaPLAY has been incredible and the feedback is always positive. Even though COVID-19 altered the original plans for the monthly program, Temple Shalom shifted to create a safe alternative.

Shabbat ShaPLAY is open to all young families regardless of membership at Temple Shalom. If you and your family have not yet had a chance to participate, we invite you to join us this month on Saturday, April 17 at 10 a.m.!

Please email Rabbi Boxman for more information and a link to register at aboxman@naplestemple.org.