Joe and Gillian Szymanski with Ethan, 7.5 and Laila, 3.5.
We spoke to Joe and Gillian Szymanski about their favorite Jewish activities, their connection to Jewish community, and the ways jkidphilly has impacted their family.
What do you enjoy about jkidphilly?
jkidphilly offers opportunities to meet other families in the community and do mitzvot throughout the area.
What kind of Jewish activities do you enjoy at home?
We read our PJ Library books, do mitzvot and play with our Jewish-themed toys.
What are your favorite PJ Library books?
Ethan likes “The Little, Little House” because they realize they actually have all they need. “Something From Nothing” is a classic, too, around here. Just beautiful storytelling centered around family and growing, both physically and emotionally.
Are you part of any other organized Jewish communities?
We have been members of Or Hadash since September 2015; Laila also attends Chabad Garden School (and their camp over the summer).
What do you think other parents should know about jkidphilly?
It’s an amazing organization that brings the Jewish community together through events, books, and emails. It’s very inclusive (we’re an interfaith family) and welcoming as well.
