jBaby Classes, Playgroups & Meet Ups

Come play with jBaby Chicago! From music to yoga to an expectant parent series, jBaby classes partner with local Jewish organizations to offer something unique for families. Or, join a weekly playgroup to connect with other jBaby families. These social groups are facilitated by our jBaby Parent Ambassadors and are offered in person and virtually. Meet Ups are one-time events that include play dates, crafts and volunteer opportunities. Find one happening near you and one that works best for you and your family!

JUF Young Families programming is enriched by the diversity of our participants. We know each family is unique and all are welcome. Please email us at youngfamilies@juf.org if you have any questions or if you require any accommodations to make our programming accessible and welcoming to your family.

Program Location

Ark Adventures | Friday

Friday, December 8, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Climb aboard the ark for this theatrical and musical Shabbat experience led by the K’ilu Company with sensory storytelling, puppetry, and lots of imagination. Designed especially for kids birth to 4 years old and their grownups!

Location:
Congregation Beth Shalom
3433 Walters Avenue
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Growing Community

Saturday, December 9, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the Second Saturday of every month between 11/11/2023 - 3/9/2024)

Join us for a chance to 'grow community' while watching children blossom. Children will explore a safe, engaging, sensory-rich environment while caregivers have a chance to observe play, socialize, and provide support to one another. Based on conversation topics there will be opportunities outside of our meeting time to participate in two zoom calls with experts in topics like feeding, sleep and discipline.

**This class is best for babies who have not mastered walking**

Location:
North Shore Congregation Israel
1185 Sheridan Road
Glencoe IL, 60022

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Ark Adventures | Saturday

Saturday, December 9, 2023 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Climb aboard the ark for this theatrical and musical Shabbat experience led by the K’ilu Company with sensory storytelling, puppetry, and lots of imagination. Designed especially for kids birth to 4 years old and their grownups!

Saturday sessions include an optional, free kiddush luncheon following the program.

Location:
Congregation Beth Shalom
3433 Walters Avenue
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Torah Tots with a Twist

Sunday, December 10, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

We will celebrate Chanukah this session!

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Baby Beginnings

Thursday, December 14, 2023 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Baby Beginnings is geared for babies 12 months and younger and their grown-ups. Join incredible community experts for music, postpartum health, Jewish life with baby, and more!

Location:
Anshe Emet Synagogue
3751 N. Broadway Street
Chicago IL, 60613

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

jBaby Third Shabbat

Saturday, December 16, 2023 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

(Recurring Monthly on the Third Saturday of every month between 11/18/2023 - 2/17/2024)

Congregation Rodfei Zedek is excited to offer an exclusive, interactive musical Shabbat experience co-led by children’s musician Sarah Jayne Parker and Marsha’s Music, which has offered the Music Together curriculum in Hyde Park for over 20 years. jBaby Third Shabbat offers children and caregivers the chance to enjoy Shabbat by singing songs, learning about music and rhythm, and moving their bodies! Come for this fantastic program, and stay to enjoy Kiddush lunch as a community.

Location:
Congregation Rodfei Zedek
5200 S. Hyde Park Blvd
Chicago IL, 60615

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

jBaby | Hanukkah Tunes for Tots | City

Sunday, December 17, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Let's extend the Hanukkah celebrations a little longer this year with jBaby! Join us Sunday, December 17th at Tiny Tots for the best Hanukkah jam session with Mr. Jeremy and a fun popup playdate. If you've never had the opportunity to sing with Mr. Jeremy and your littles, you won't want to miss this!

This event This event is for infants and crawlers. If you have a walker, please join us for the Celebrate Hanukkah event we're co-sponsoring with PJ Library at Bernard Zell on Sunday, December 10th!

Location:
Tiny Tots Inc.
2603-2611 N Halsted St.
Chicago IL, 60614

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

Music and Memories | Northbrook Inn

Tuesday, December 19, 2023 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

You are invited to sing, dance, and celebrate Chanukah at Music & Memories with JUF Young Families! We look forward to making new friends with a concert and song session.

Kiddos 5 and under with adult guardian are welcome to attend!

This program is coordinated by JUF's TOV Volunteer network.

Location:
Northbrook Inn
99 Pointe Dr.
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
JUF Young Families
youngfamilies@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

Baby Beginnings

Thursday, December 21, 2023 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Baby Beginnings is geared for babies 12 months and younger and their grown-ups. Join incredible community experts for music, postpartum health, Jewish life with baby, and more!

Location:
Anshe Emet Synagogue
3751 N. Broadway Street
Chicago IL, 60613

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Shabbat with a Twist | Fridays

Friday, January 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Friday of every month between 1/5/2024 - 3/1/2024)

Pandaste Yoga will lead us in storytime, crafts, challah braiding, and, of course, yoga!

Location:
Congregation Beth Shalom
3433 Walters Avenue
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Torah Tots with a Twist

Friday, January 5, 2024 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

Pizza dinner included this session!

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Shabbat with a Twist | Saturdays

Saturday, January 6, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Saturday of every month between 1/6/2024 - 3/2/2024)

Shalom Chaverim, ("Welcome, Friends!")

Sunday, January 7, 2024 10:00 AM - Sunday, February 25, 2024 11:00 AM

Infants and toddlers, with their grown-ups, explore Judaism through the textures, sounds, sights, smells, and rhythms of the Jewish year. Sessions include stories, singing, arts, block play, baking, and more facilitated by an experienced early childhood educator.

*Class will not meet 2/18*

*There is a free parking lot on the south side of the building*

Location:
Jewish Enrichment Center
5200 S. Hyde Park Blvd
Chicago IL, 60615

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Tiny Tots Busy Brain

Monday, January 8, 2024 9:30 AM - Monday, February 12, 2024 10:15 AM

Come join Mrs. Andi to sense and explore the world through experiential learning. Get ready to dive into a new theme each week corresponding with the Jewish calendar. You and your child will explore together with new friends.
Let's get busy!

Location:
Congregation Or Shalom
21 West Hawthorn Parkway
Vernon Hills IL, 60061

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Wiggles and Giggles

Tuesday, January 9, 2024 10:00 AM - Tuesday, February 27, 2024 11:00 AM

This parent-child program will be led by JCC Chicago early childhood teachers, where a joyful and nurturing environment is provided for you and your child to explore, imagine, and create through free play, circle time, songs, and art/sensory experiences.

These weekly sessions are an opportunity to connect with other parents/caregivers of young children and discuss and learn about your child’s development.

Location:
Florence Heller JCC
524 W. Melrose
Chicago IL, 60657

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Broadway Storytime: Movers and Shakers

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 9:30 AM - Wednesday, March 13, 2024 10:30 AM

Spend the morning with your 0 -2 year old as our littlest Broadway fans are introduced to show tunes, characters and stories while Broadway musicals are brought to life by Stages Performing Arts. Each class incorporates activities that are designed to support your little one’s physical, cognitive, social-emotional and language development. An age-appropriate Jewish story will be read to give you a chance to socialize too. Come meet other parents with children similar in age.

Location:
Temple Beth-El of Northbrook
3610 Dundee Road
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Broadway Storytime: Babies

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 10:30 AM - Wednesday, March 13, 2024 11:30 AM

Infant Drop-In Playgroup | North Suburbs | Weinger JCC

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 11:00 AM - Wednesday, May 29, 2024 12:30 PM

Join a weekly playgroup and let jBaby Chicago help you find your Jewish community! Looking to meet other parents with new babies? Drop-in to our free Wednesday morning Infant (0-6m) Playgroups.

This event is free, but please register so we know you're coming. You only need to register for the group once (not every week you want to attend).

*Please note: this group will not meet on 4/24/24 in observation of Passover.

Location:
Weinger JCC
300 Revere Dr.
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

Infant Drop-In Playgroups | City | Harmony Learning Center

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 11:00 AM - Wednesday, May 22, 2024 12:30 PM

Join a weekly playgroup and let jBaby Chicago help you find your Jewish community! Looking to meet other parents with new babies? Drop-in to our free Wednesday morning Infant (0-6m) Playgroups.

This event is free, but please register so we know you're coming. You only need to register for the group once (not every week you want to attend).

*Please note: this group will not meet on 3/27/24, 4/10/24, or 4/24/24.

Location:
Harmony Learning Center
725 W Wrightwood Ave
Chicago IL, 60614

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

Baby Beginnings

Thursday, January 11, 2024 9:30 AM - Thursday, February 8, 2024 10:30 AM

Baby Beginnings is geared for babies 12 months and younger and their grown-ups. Join incredible community experts for music, postpartum health, Jewish life with baby, and more!

January 11 - Mr. Dave Music
January 18 - Busy Babies with Buddha Belly Kids Yoga
January 25 - Beyond Baby Blues: Embracing Parental Well Being with Sweet Piece Solutions
February 1 – Lullaby League with Stages Chicago
February 8 - Immersing your baby in books and stories with Maxine Handelman

Location:
Anshe Emet Synagogue
3751 N. Broadway Street
Chicago IL, 60613

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Ark Adventures | Friday

Friday, January 12, 2024 10:00 AM - Friday, March 22, 2024 11:00 AM

Climb aboard the ark for this theatrical and musical Shabbat experience led by the K’ilu Company with sensory storytelling, puppetry, and lots of imagination. Designed especially for kids birth to 4 years old and their grownups!

Class will meet every other Friday on the following dates: 1/12, 1/26, 2/9, 2/23, 3/8, 3/22

Location:
Congregation Beth Shalom
3433 Walters Avenue
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Sticky, Slimy, Shabbat

Saturday, January 13, 2024 10:15 AM - Saturday, February 10, 2024 11:00 AM

Experience Shabbat during an engaging tactile and sensory experience. Feel, touch, and move as we engage in the wonder of creation through water play, rice, paint, whipped/shaving cream, and other mediums. This class is best for kids ages 12-24 months and their favorite adult.

Location:
Congregation Sukkat Shalom
1001 Central Avenue
Wilmette IL, 60091

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Ark Adventures | Saturday

Saturday, January 13, 2024 11:00 AM - Saturday, March 23, 2024 12:00 PM

Climb aboard the ark for this theatrical and musical Shabbat experience led by the K’ilu Company with sensory storytelling, puppetry, and lots of imagination. Designed especially for kids birth to 4 years old and their grownups!

Saturday sessions include an optional, free kiddush luncheon following the program.

Class will meet every other Saturday on the following dates:
01/13, 01/27, 02/10, 02/24, 03/09, 03/23

Location:
Congregation Beth Shalom
3433 Walters Avenue
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

jBaby | Russian-Speaking Playdate | Lake Zurich

Sunday, January 14, 2024 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM

Worried that your little one doesn't have enough Russian language exposure? Looking for Russian-speaking friends for your kiddo? Interested in meeting other Russian-speaking parents to troubleshoot and problem-solve unique bilingual challenges together? Then this event is for you! Come enjoy an hour of open-play time. Snacks and toys will be provided. Open to kids ages 0-5.

Location:
Lake Zurich JCC
23280 N Old McHenry Rd
Lake Zurich IL, 60047

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

Sensory Celebrations

Sunday, January 14, 2024 9:15 AM - Sunday, March 3, 2024 10:00 AM

Experience the Jewish holidays and seasonal celebrations though tactile and sensory play. Engage in crafts and listen to stories, and enjoy socializing and open play. Snack is included. This class is best for children ages 12 months+ and their favorite adult. This class takes place immediately before our Family School program on Sundays. Families are welcome to stay for our opening tefilah/music of Family School from 10:00-10:30.

Location:
Congregation Sukkat Shalom
1001 Central Avenue
Wilmette IL, 60091

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Music B'Yachad - Skokie

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 10:10 AM - Wednesday, March 6, 2024 10:50 AM

Come sing with me, mishpachati! In this interactive class, caregivers & tots will learn rhymes, games, action songs, and dances to stimulate young children's natural response to music while developing listening and motor skills. We will enhance language development and sense of balance and timing all while making musical connections to our Jewish journey.

Location:
Ginsburg Solomon Schechter Early Childhood Center
4500 Dempster Street
Evanston IL, 60076

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

JNew Moms Group CITY

Thursday, January 18, 2024 1:00 PM - Thursday, February 22, 2024 3:00 PM

The JNew Moms Group offers a professionally facilitated supportive environment for first-time mothers to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and connect with others while exploring relevant topics such as sleep, infant development, self-care, work-life balance, and ways they might incorporate Jewish culture into their growing families.

The journey into parenthood is unique and transformative for all families, and we honor the diversity of this powerful human experience. As such, JCC Chicago’s JNew Moms Groups are open to gestational, non-gestational, foster and adoptive caregivers who feel connected to Judaism in some way, shape, or form.

Location:
Prenatal Fit
1937 W. Diversey
Chicago IL, 60614

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Bim Bam Baby

Friday, January 19, 2024 9:45 AM - Friday, February 16, 2024 10:30 AM

Bim Bam Baby is a fun and energetic music class for tots and their parents or caregivers, with a few Jewish songs in the mix for some added fun. Enjoy lively, developmentally appropriate songs and activities with your little one and get to know other little ones and parents.

Location:
Temple Jeremiah
937 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

LEAP into Shabbat

Friday, January 19, 2024 9:45 AM - Friday, March 1, 2024 10:30 AM

jBaby Chicago and Chicago Jewish Day School are thrilled to partner once again for LEAP into Shabbat! Led by CJDS Director of Jewish Studies, Tamar Cytryn, along with a CJDS in-house musician, this class offers a joyful and engaging Shabbat experience with singing and activities for children of all ages.

Location:
Chicago Jewish Day School
3730 N. California Avenue
Chicago IL, 60618

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

JNew Moms Group SUBURBS

Friday, January 19, 2024 10:00 AM - Friday, February 23, 2024 11:30 AM

The JNew Moms Group offers a professionally facilitated supportive environment for first-time mothers to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and connect with others while exploring relevant topics such as sleep, infant development, self-care, work-life balance, and ways they might incorporate Jewish culture into their growing families.

The journey into parenthood is unique and transformative for all families, and we honor the diversity of this powerful human experience. As such, JCC Chicago’s JNew Moms Groups are open to gestational, non-gestational, foster and adoptive caregivers who feel connected to Judaism in some way, shape, or form.

Location:
Bernard Weinger JCC
300 Revere Drive
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

All Ages Playgroup | Sundays 10am | Chicago

Sunday, January 21, 2024 10:00 AM - Sunday, February 25, 2024 11:30 AM

Join a weekly playgroup this winter and let jBaby Chicago help you find your Jewish community! Need a fun space for your jBaby to explore while getting to know other parents in your area? Sign-up for an All Ages Playgroup session!

Location:
Bubbles Academy
2184 N Elston
Chicago IL, 60614

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

All Ages Playgroup | Sundays 10am | Northbrook

Sunday, January 21, 2024 10:00 AM - Sunday, February 25, 2024 11:30 AM

Join a weekly playgroup this winter and let jBaby Chicago help you find your Jewish community! Need a fun space for your jBaby (birth- 24 months) to explore while getting to know other parents in your area? Sign-up for an All Ages Playgroup session!

Location:
Weinger JCC
300 Revere Dr.
Northbrook IL, 60062

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4905

Register Online

See, Sing, Celebrate! Tu B'Shevat

Sunday, January 28, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Help your child experience Jewish holidays each month for the first (or second) time! Join Rabbi Adam Chalom and Kol Hadash Humanistic Congregation for music, stories and fun. Parents can schmooze while their kids snack and play, and each family will take home something they’ve made to make their holiday more meaningful.

Kol Hadash Humanistic Congregation provides a comfortable home for individuals and families who identify as Culturally Jewish, Just Jewish, Jew-ish, Jewish and . . . , Half-Jewish, Interfaith, Jews by Choice, Multicultural, Not Religious, Secular, Humanistic, Atheist, and Agnostic. No prior knowledge or Jewish literacy is needed; come as you are!

Location:
Kol Hadash Sunday School at Deerfield High School
2100 Half Day Road
Deerfield IL, 60015

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Shabbat with a Twist | Fridays

Friday, February 2, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Friday of every month between 1/5/2024 - 3/1/2024)

Shabbat with a Twist | Saturdays

Saturday, February 3, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Saturday of every month between 1/6/2024 - 3/2/2024)

Torah Tots with a Twist

Sunday, February 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

We will celebrate Tu B'Shevat this session!

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Connecting the Expecting

Tuesday, February 27, 2024 6:30 PM - Tuesday, March 19, 2024 8:30 PM

Expectant parents at similar stages of life will gather to socialize, share resources and discuss issues pertaining to being pregnant and preparing for parenthood. This group is open to expectant single moms and couples (LGBTQ couples welcome) who are expecting the birth or adoption of their first baby, in which at least one member of the couple is Jewish.

Each session will include a guest speaker and topics will include newborn basics, adjusting to new roles as parents, Jewish baby rituals and creating a Jewish home.

Location:
Anshe Emet Synagogue
3751 N. Broadway Street
Chicago IL, 60613

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Shabbat with a Twist | Fridays

Friday, March 1, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Friday of every month between 1/5/2024 - 3/1/2024)

Shabbat with a Twist | Saturdays

Saturday, March 2, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

(Recurring Monthly on the First Saturday of every month between 1/6/2024 - 3/2/2024)

See, Sing, Celebrate! Purim

Sunday, March 10, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Torah Tots with a Twist

Sunday, March 17, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

We'll celebrate Purim this session!

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

Torah Tots with a Twist

Friday, April 12, 2024 5:45 PM - 6:45 PM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

See, Sing, Celebrate! Passover

Sunday, April 14, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Torah Tots with a Twist

Sunday, May 12, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Am Yisrael is excited to host Torah Tots with a Twist. These monthly gatherings will focus on the celebration of Shabbat, Torah, Jewish Holidays and Israel. Families will celebrate being Jewish through songs, games, food, art projects and stories.

Location:
Am Yisrael Conservative Congregation
4 Happ Road
Northfield IL, 60093

Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907

Register Online

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