Youth groups at Schaarai Zedek give children and teens a place to have fun, make friends, and feel at home in Jewish life. Led by our Director of Youth Programming, Naomi Litwak, each group offers age-appropriate programs that blend social time, Jewish experiences, and community building. From infants through high school, there’s a place for every young person to connect.
Infants through Pre-K (0–5 years)
Teenokot brings our youngest children and their caregivers together for monthly enrichment programs that introduce families to Jewish community from the very beginning. Through music, movement, stories, crafts, and holiday experiences, little ones explore Judaism in a warm and playful environment – and caregivers connect with one another as well.
Programs offered for children 0–5 and their caregivers, with monthly opportunities to enjoy Jewish experiences together.
Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
Yeledim is our youth group for children in grades K–2. Local programs, often following Religious School, help children build friendships, celebrate Jewish holidays, and experience youth group in age-appropriate, hands-on ways. It’s an easy and fun introduction to Jewish community outside the classroom.
Programs are offered locally following Religious School to introduce children to youth group life.
3rd – 5th Grades
Chaverim is our youth group for children in grades 3–5. Local programs help students develop social connections and deepen their Jewish identity through holiday celebrations, creative activities, and time with friends in a relaxed setting.
Programs are designed to develop social and Judaic connections among our community.
6th – 8th Grades
Jr. SchZFTY is Schaarai Zedek’s middle school youth group, connected with NFTY’s Southern Tropical Region. Monthly programs include social events, community service, Judaic activities, and holiday celebrations. Jr. SchZFTY gives middle schoolers a supportive space to have fun, learn, and explore their Jewish identities together.
Monthly local programs include social, community service, religious, and cultural experiences.
9th – 12th Grades
SchZFTY is Schaarai Zedek’s high school youth group and an active member of NFTY’s Southern Tropical Region. Teens participate in several programs each month focusing on social events, leadership opportunities, Judaic learning, and community service. SchZFTY gives teens a chance to build lasting friendships, take ownership of their Jewish journey, and connect with the wider Reform youth community.
Programs throughout the month focus on social, educational, Judaic, and community service experiences.
For more information about any of our youth groups or to get involved, please contact our Director of Youth Programming, Naomi Litwak.