“The participants in my jBaby class are a really special group of warm families who are dipping their toe into Jewish programming, had a positive experience and want to get more involved.”
In partnership with our Midwest overnight camps, PJ Library invites you to get away, unwind and introduce your family to the magic of Jewish camp complete with campfires, s’mores, sports, nature, sing-alongs, art, Shabbat, and so much more! Our PJ Library Family Camp weekends are an all-inclusive Jewish experience especially designed for families with children 6 and under.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please feel free to email us at youngfamilies@juf.org to discuss any further questions.
How far is the camp? The drive will vary dependent on traffic, if you are able to we recommend trying to leave on the earlier side on Friday. OSRUI is about 2 hours from the city.
What kinds of activities will be part of the weekend? Family Camp will allow all members of your family to experience the magic of a camp, including a very special Shabbat. Throughout the weekend there will be a variety of sports, arts, games, and other recreational activities, all designed with the needs of young families in mind. See below for a sample schedule.
Is the camp Kosher? OSRUI uses only certified Kosher meat and does not mix milk with meat. You can expect that no milk or milk derivatives will be used at a meat meal. We do not use separate dishes, cutlery, or serving pieces. A vegetarian option is also available at no extra charge.
Where will families be housed during the weekend? Think modest hotel room. Families are in private rooms featuring 2-4 beds and a private bath. Based on the number of children in your family we can add one or two cots or a crib to your room.
Can I bring food to camp? Yes, if you have special food or snacks for your family you are welcome to bring them. We will have fridges available to accommodate you.
How does camp accommodate my little ones? Both camps will have pack-n-plays and high chairs available for your use. The jBaby and PJ Library team is working with each camp to think about the needs of our youngest participants and making these adjustments to the schedule. Lodging has easy access to fridges to store milk and other baby food items.
Is programming mandatory or can my family do their own thing? We encourage you to participate in the planned programming, but also understand family’s needs and are flexible. Additionally, much of the schedule is built around family choice, so you can do what is right for your family. If you need a break from planned activities and quiet time, our staff can help direct you to the best places to do so (perhaps a peak at the lake or a short hike). We will also have some downtime built into the schedule for naps and/or individual family activities.
Is there cell phone service/wifi at camp? Wifi service and cell reception can be spotty at camp but does work. We encourage you to unplug over the weekend to make the most of the time together.
Is there a mandatory bedtime for kids at camp? Our program will be designed to accommodate different kid’s bedtime with staggered programming throughout the early evening. We encourage you to do what is best for your family.
What if my child eats dinner earlier than 6:00? There will be snacks available throughout the day. We can also work to accommodate your families’ needs – please let us know when you register what times work best for your family.
Who are the staff? Our camp partners have invited some of their best counselors from the summer to return for our family camp weekend. The counselors have all had CPR training and many are pursuing degrees in education. They are energetic, loving, fun and responsible. You will have a chance to meet them all!
What types of “family activities” should we expect? See the sample schedule below. We are working to plan a fun and exciting weekend for you and your family. Activities may include scavenger hunts, story walks, art projects, and seasonal activities (hayrides & sledding). A finalized full schedule will be shared prior to the event.
What types of adult programming will you have? At each camp we will hold a wine and cheese (Wisconsin’s finest) reception for parents in the evenings for both social conversation and engaging discussions led by our educators. Both camps also feature a workout gym for your use and quiet space to enjoy.
What should we wear? Nothing fancy, seasonally appropriate clothes that you are comfortable in!
What
if someone in my family gets sick? There is a hospital located within 5 miles of the camp. Additionally, there are big
chain pharmacies nearby should you need a medication that you did not
bring.
Where should we park? There is parking very close to the housing.
What
is your cancellation policy? Registration is taken
through the camp. Please contact us at youngfamilies@juf.org for more information.
We know all children have different bedtimes and nap times; our schedule is flexible to accommodate all needs.
Friday
4-5:00 pm Welcome and registration – Playground Open
5:30 pm Opening Craft and Snack (as families arrive)
6:15 pm Dinner
7:00 pm Family Shabbat and singing
7:30 pm PJ Library story time and bedtime/Games for older children
9:15 pm Social time for adults (babysitting provided)
Saturday
7:00 am Open breakfast & coffee
Gym open - come early to play if you have early risers
9:00 am Shabbat Morning Singing
10:00 am Morning family activity (art, sports, hikes)
11:45 am Lunch
12:45 pm Nap time or free choice activities with your family –
babysitting provided for nappers
3:00 pm Afternoon fun family activities (and snack)
6:00 pm Dinner
7:00 pm Fun family evening program
7:30 pm Havdallah, s’mores and folk songs
8:00 pm PJ Library story time & bedtime/Games for older
children
9:30 pm Social time for adults (babysitting provided)
Sunday
7:00 am Continental breakfast (optional)
8:30 am Family activity
10:00 am Clean-up and pack
10:30 am Brunch
11:15 am Friendship Circle and L’hitraot (See you next time!)
“The participants in my jBaby class are a really special group of warm families who are dipping their toe into Jewish programming, had a positive experience and want to get more involved.”
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