NSCI Tots
We offer opportunities for young children and their families to celebrate holidays, learn about Judaism, have fun, and do mitzvot. Programming is planned to meet all the different ages and stages of young childhood (0–5). Every program includes a range of activities to meet children where they are in their Jewish learning and abilities. Our Instagram @nscitots features activities and experiences you can do in your home, out in the community, and at NSCI.
Who can come to our programming?
Any family with a child 0–5. Events are open to the community! We welcome parents, grandparents, and any other caring adults to accompany young children to our programming. Whether you have already joined NSCI or are searching for your synagogue, come to one of our many opportunities for young families to play, pray, and socialize together! Our religious school meets weekly with children from preschool to 12th grade. Learn about our innovative and engaging approach to Jewish learning and living here.
We look forward to meeting you soon! In the meantime, check out our TOT Holiday resource page for everything printable and digital to entertain and teach your tot about the Jewish holidays.
Upcoming Tot Events
Unless otherwise noted, programs are FREE and Open to ALL. We ask that you please register in advance.
Tot Playground Shabbat Experiences:
- Friday, July 26th at 5:00 pm on the front NSCI Playground — Past Machonik and Youth Group board president Katherine McKeag will lead Tot's and their families through a meaningful and fun Shabbat activity. After, Rabbi Leizman will guide everyone through a family Shabbat service and song session. Click here to register.
- Sunday, August 10th at 10:00 am on the front NSCI Playground — Past Machonik and Youth Group board president Katherine McKeag will lead Tot's and their families through a meaningful and fun Shabbat activity. After, Rabbi Leizman will guide everyone through a family Shabbat service and song session. Click here to register.
Preschool
Our preschool is open to both NSCI congregant and non-congregant families (space is limited). Preschoolers are toilet-trained 3- and 4-year-olds.
Sunday Preschool at NSCI
September 10th – May 5th, 9:00–11:00 am
Preschoolers come for a joyful, hands-on Jewish experience, exploring symbols, rituals, customs, values, and holidays through stories, music, art, food, and imaginative play.
Tuition: $655/year for NSCI congregants; $890/year for non-congregants. To register, click here.
Wednesday Evening Preschool at NSCI
Semester 1: September 20th – December 12th, 4:15–5:45 pm
Semester 2: January 10th – May 1st, 4:15–5:45 pm
Preschoolers and kindergartners explore Judaism and Jewish holidays through hands-on activities and play, using a Reggio-inspired curriculum. Every session includes a snack, a special (art, music, Hebrew, etc.), a sensory activity, time to play, and a story.
Tuition: $327.50/semester for NSCI congregants; $445/semester for non-congregants. To register, click here.
Daytime Morning Preschool Options
We are excited to offer another option for Jewish early childhood education on the 
North Shore. The Childrenz Center, a non-profit Jewish preschool, leases space from North Shore Congregation Israel. An independent entity, the Childrenz Center offers programs for children 16 months (mom-and-tot) through pre-kindergarten. More information can be found on their website here.
find us online!
Instagram @NSCITots
A space to discover Jewish activities for home, out in the community, and at NSCI, for children zero through five and their families.
Tot Shabbat YouTube.
Check out our Totally Terrific Tot Shabbat archives for your favorite Tot services and stories.
