By Leslie Feldman
South Philadelphia Shtiebel has just completed a four-week pilot program for the creation of a play space in response to a growing number of young families joining its congregation.
The space is designed to serve children from toddlers to early elementary age and is part of a broader initiative to make its facilities more welcoming and accessible to families with young children — both members and nonmembers alike.
“As our community matures, we are always trying new programs, and this year, we’ve been looking to enhance programming for our youngest Shtiebelers,” said Jamie Goldberg, Shtiebel advisory board member and mother of two young kids. “Since last September, we’ve had over 20 babies born here. The play space is designed for babies up to 18 months, and their caregivers and big siblings are also welcome.”
The play space, which is available to families on Sunday mornings, is a “pop-up” in the synagogue’s large, open downstairs area. It has playmats and small baby toys to serve the littlest Shtiebelers, and it also has gross motor equipment like foam climbing blocks and Pikler triangles to serve toddlers. There is also a seating area for adults around the perimeter and a kids’ room with craft supplies for big siblings who join the fun. Volunteers from the Shtiebel community provide musical and artistic talent.
“We believe that spiritual life doesn’t pause when you have a baby; it just changes shape,” said Rabbi Dasi Fruchter. “The play space is more than a room with toys; it’s a sacred gathering place where parents can exhale, connect and build community while their little ones explore. We’re creating a Jewish rhythm that holds space for both chaos and calm, for conversation and caretaking.”
To create the play space, the synagogue asks for a $10 to $18 donation from each family attending and also offers the opportunity to sponsor a play session in honor of a special person or milestone.
“We plan to use the funds raised from the play space to upgrade our children’s room and enhance our kids programming,” said Goldberg.
Attendance so far has been a mix of Shtiebel “regulars” and members of the broader South Philadelphia/Center City Jewish community.
Congregant Danielle Abrams said that since becoming a mom, she’s done her best to widen her social circle to meet other parents in the city.
“I’ve been to a variety of family programs in the city that have brought me community and joy, but nothing has been as meaningful as Shtiebel Sundays. I found a welcoming and cozy setting where I can connect to other Jewish families and also strengthen those relationships beyond the walls of the weekly programming.”
Rachel Gamson, another play space participant, feels the space has been a welcoming place for her entire family.
“Rabbanit Dasi does a great job leading the program in a thoughtful way. I love that there is such a baby-friendly space to bring my daughter and activities for my older son, while being able to connect with other parents,” she said.
Goldberg added that they have learned a lot from the four-week pilot session this June and plan to continue with a regular schedule going forward.
“We will continue this program because it allows families to build Jewish community and programming to help parents find their spiritual rhythm,” she said.
For participant Mallika Viswanath, this space is a breath of fresh air where she can actually relax.
“My kids and I are comfortable at the Shtiebel. It is a safe play area for my baby and toddler and we are with people we love. The coffee and parent community is just the icing on the cake!” she said.
Leslie Feldman is a freelance writer.
