Move and Groove Tot Shabbat

Educators Maria Hanley and Dana Saltzman lead a movement and music-filled program every Friday at The J. Parents and caregivers of children ages birth through six are invited to join us from 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. Free and open to the community. Enter through the Stonehill Entrance.

Early Childhood Center

We believe that early childhood education is more than just preparing children for future success in school. It’s about honoring the process of childhood and supporting every child in realizing their potential. The J’s program is full year and open to children ages 8 weeks old through pre-kindergarten.

Jewish Young Family Events

Building a community is important to families of all sizes. Our engaging and hands-on programs are offered year-round. Families connect, celebrate and explore together. We have created a holiday series that reviews symbols and customs associated with each major holiday and offers ideas for activities for families.

American Red Cross Learn to Swim

The J has been a winner of the Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Award for Best Place for Kids' Swim Lessons several years in a row.
We offer group swim lessons for children starting six months old – with specific classes targeted
to infants, toddlers and preschool children.

Parenting Programs and Support

The J’s early childhood team brings professionals together with families and caregivers for programs such as Village Voices parent discussion group.

Pop-In-Play

Little ones will love exploring and meeting new friends in an environment set up to engage them in play. Ages birth to five years old. This interactive room is open to Mandel JCC members anytime the Early Childhood Center does not have regularly scheduled programming.

Featured Classes

Camps, Early Childhood, K-12

Camp Wise Family Fun Day - 2025

08/17/2025 - 08/17/2025

Enjoy the afternoon at Camp Wise for a family outing.

Wrap up summer with an awesome day at Camp Wise. Kids of all ages and adults can get in touch with their adventurous side by soaring to new heights on the ropes course, using their creative talents to make something in the art shack, enjoying other activities at the lake, pool and more! Free however registration is required

Early Childhood, Jewish Life, K-12

J Family Day: Tu B'Av

08/10/2025 - 08/10/2025

Families with children ages 0-8 celebrate the little-known Jewish holiday of love and family at The J!

Celebrate the little-known Jewish holiday of love and family at The J! We will be doing projects to show appreciation to those we love and participating in a family Israeli Dance class! For families with children ages 0-8.

Early Childhood, Jewish Life, K-12

Pizza in the Hut

10/12/2025 - 10/12/2025

A fun family Sukkot celebration with pizza and activities.

Celebrate Sukkot at the Mandel JCC Sukkah! Enjoy a pizza lunch with other young families. For children 0-8 and their caregivers.

Early Childhood, Fitness, Jewish Life, K-12

Young Families Open Gym

10/26/2025 - 10/26/2025

Beat the winter blues with active play in The J’s gym—bikes, balls, mats and more! Great for families with kids ages 0–8.

Get out of the cold and join us in The J's gymnasium for large muscle activities such as biking, balls, play mats, and more! Meet other young families and enjoy a safe space to release that winter energy. Good for families with children ages 0-8.

Early Childhood, Fitness, Jewish Life, K-12

Young Families Open Gym

11/23/2025 - 11/23/2025

Beat the winter blues with active play in The J’s gym—bikes, balls, mats and more! Great for families with kids ages 0–8.

Get out of the cold and join us in The J's gymnasium for large muscle activities such as biking, balls, play mats, and more! Meet other young families and enjoy a safe space to release that winter energy. Good for families with children ages 0-8.

Prenatal to Pre-K Leadership