Children of all ages are welcome to participate, along with parents, in our engaging, fun, inclusive programs and activities, including free informal social activities, Shabbat and holiday programs, and our Children and Youth programs. Or Shalom offers a several programs for families of young children through to Bar/Bat/Simchat Mitzvah age:
Shabbat Sheli (Ages 3-5)
Shabbat Sheli welcomes families with children ages 3-5, once a month, Saturdays, 11am – 12pm from October – June.
Shabbat Sheli warmly welcomes families with children ages 3–5 for joyful, meaningful Saturday mornings rooted in Jewish story, song, and ritual. Together with a growing cohort of young Or Shalom families, participants connect through hands-on, holistic experiences—whether dancing in the Torah procession or exploring the hidden wonders of the Or Shalom gardens. Parent participation is essential in building connection and community.
This program is free to attend.
To continue offering meaningful Jewish experiences for all, we rely on the generosity of our community. Please consider making a donation.
Bright Lights Alef (Ages 6-8)
Bright Lights Alef is Or Shalom’s welcoming entry point into Jewish experiential learning for younger children. Meeting every other week, this joyful cohort explores stories from the Tanakh, Jewish history, Hebrew language, holidays, and core Jewish values and practices—all through a creative and age-appropriate lens. Classes blend accessible text study, music, movement, and hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and nurture spiritual growth.
Twice monthly on Wednesdays 5pm – 6:30pm | October – June
Member $325.00 / Regular $455.00 | Become a Member here
Bright Light Bet (Ages 9-11)
Bright Lights Aleph is Or Shalom’s welcoming entry point into Jewish experiential learning for younger children. Meeting every other week, this joyful cohort explores stories from the Tanakh, Jewish history, Hebrew language, holidays, and core Jewish values and practices—all through a creative and age-appropriate lens. Classes blend accessible text study, music, movement, and hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and nurture spiritual growth.
Twice monthly on Wednesdays 5pm – 6:30pm | October – June
Member $325.00 / Regular $455.00 | Become a Member here
B’Yachad (Ages 11 or 12/13)
B’Yachad (“Together”) is Or Shalom’s two-year simchat mitzvah program designed to support youth during this transformative stage of life with meaningful, reflective Jewish learning.
Through a dynamic mix of text-based study, Hebrew and prayer literacy, Jewish history, thought, and culture, students explore what it means to take on Jewish responsibility. Classes also include hands-on projects and opportunities for community service, nurturing a sense of purpose, ethical awareness, and connection to the broader community.
Students are divided into two cohorts—Alef and Bet—based on their year of study, allowing for age-appropriate progression and deeper engagement over time.
Please note, a rate of 75% attendance of all aspects of the course is required, in addition to attendance at a minimum of six Shabbat morning services per year.
Wednesdays 5pm – 6:30pm | October – June
Pricing:
2 years, Or Shalom membership.
$1,650.00 for two years (Members only) | Become a Member here
$500 Simchat Mitzvah fee, when Simchat is hosted at Or Shalom.
$750 Simchat Mitzvah fee, when Simchat is hosted off site.
Additional costs may arise, depending on personal celebration preferences.
We welcome parent engagement and value your input. Please contact our youth education coordinator. Youth & Family Coordinator | youtheducation@orshalom.ca
Course subsidies are available.
Please email office@orshalom.ca for more information.
Resources
Everyday blessings that your family might enjoy practicing:
https://pjlibrary.org/beyond-books/pjblog/august-2016/blessings-for-everyday-situations
