Talia and David Kaplan with Benji and Ellie.
We spoke to Talia and David Kaplan about their favorite Jewish activities, their connection to Jewish community, and the ways jkidphilly has impacted their family.
What do you enjoy about jkidphilly?
We value the community jkidphilly has created through its varied, fun, and accessible programs. By planning activities in all different regions (Elkins Park, Bucks County, Lower Merion, etc.), jkidphilly has succeeded in fostering friendships across the Greater Philadelphia area. We are grateful to jkidphilly for those continued connections and know that all of the great programs and resources would not be possible without the planning and support of jkidphilly’s amazing staff and Parent Ambassadors.
What kind of Jewish activities do you enjoy at home?
Shabbat dinners with family and friends have become a special tradition in our home. Some of our favorite Jewish activities throughout the year include: volunteering at JRA, cooking for friends, building a sukkah, celebrating Rosh Hashanah and Pesach with our cousins, grandparents and great-grandparents, and of course reading at least one PJ Library book before bedtime.
What are your favorite PJ Library books?
Bim and Bom: A Shabbat Tale, Baby Be Kind, Thank you For Me, Chicken Man, Sadie’s
Sukkah Breakfast, I Can Help, Honeyky Hanukah, Happy Birthday, Tree!: A Tu B’Shevat Story, and Engineer Ari and The Rosh Hashanah Ride
Are you part of any other organized Jewish communities?
We are members of AJ and Beth Sholom. Benji is in Kindergarten at Perelman Jewish Day School and spends his summers at Ramah Day Camp. Ellie loves her teachers and friends at AJ Preschool. We also play soccer in the Kehillah Sunday Soccer League.
What do you think other parents should know about jkidphilly?
jkidphilly is an open and welcoming organization. Through its great programs, our family has met some of our closest friends. jkidphilly–and PJ Library–offer incredible resources that make it simple (and meaningful!) to learn about Jewish culture, traditions, and values. Come experience their creative and fun activities!
