It’s hard to believe that we’ve been at home for almost a year now. Last year around this time, we were gearing up for Sinai’s Wonderland, a Tu BiShvat spectacular garden tea party. Now, we attend school and work from our homes, only go outside houses for grocery trips, and have virtual playdates. Our programming and engagement may have looked different since last January, but we’re continuing to keep Dor Chadash thriving as a community for families with young children.
In the first few months of the pandemic, Dor Chadash offered a couple of social evenings for parents to unwind and relax. We had a fantastic night of laughs with comedian Avra Friedman, a young Jewish woman who brought us some much-needed joy. After a couple more light-hearted social nights, we had an intimate program with Dr. Francine Lederer on how to talk to your children about returning to school. While the ECC opened in September, going to school is a much different experience than last year, and Dr. Lederer provided an open and safe space to talk about all the concerns and questions surrounding a new normal.
Even though we can’t celebrate holidays together in person, we’ve pivoted to digital celebrations via Zoom and featuring some Dor Chadash favorites. During Sukkot, Morah Diana lead a crafting session with make your own lulav and etrog, Sukkah decorations, and more. Zamer J stops by Facebook Live every month for a high-energy, pre-Shabbat Zammer Time. Our Virtual Family Hanukkah Party was a wonderful way to end 2020. Hosted by Rabbis Guzik and Sherman, members of all ages joined us to light the candles, sing special Hanukkah songs, share Hanukkah traditions, and watch a puppet show.
Dor Chadash has a lot in store for 2021 and continues to serve as a resource for families with young children, currently offering online programming for young kids, parents-only events, and programs for the whole family. Look out for additional Zammer Time, a Campfire Havdalah, Songs & Stories with Special Guests, and lots more. If you’d like to be added to our email list and/or learn more about Dor Chadash, please email Rachel Polansky at [email protected].
