Introduction to Jewish Summer Camps
Jewish day camps across South Florida are filling kids’ summers with athletics, creativity and Judaism. Programs like those at Camp Nefesh in Fort Lauderdale and The Mandel JCC’s Camp Shalom in Palm Beach Gardens, both pictured here, are popular with local Jewish families who hope to keep their kids active while maintaining Jewish customs.
The Camp Experience
Children, whose ages range from preschool to 10th grade (depending on the camp), get to experience an entertaining summer that instills a sense of Jewish pride during a season that is bereft of Hebrew school and big Jewish holidays. An average day at Jewish summer camp offers the mainstays — arts and crafts, cooking, water slides and basketball, to name a few activities — but also intertwines morning prayer, Israeli culture, Jewish learning and traditions, and a camp-wide Shabbat to finish the week.
Activities and Curriculum
The activities are designed to be engaging and fun, while also teaching valuable lessons about Judaism and community. From Torah studies to tennis, the camps aim to provide a well-rounded experience that caters to different interests and ages.
Director’s Perspective
“Our goal is to make Judaism come alive in the most joyful and meaningful ways,” said Camp Nefesh director Koby Lerner. “We sing, we cheer, and we teach Torah with energy and heart. Our campers build lifelong friendships and discover that Judaism isn’t limited to the synagogue — it lives on the soccer field, in the bunk room, and everywhere they go.”
Benefits of Jewish Summer Camps
The benefits of attending a Jewish summer camp are numerous. Children get to develop new skills, make friends, and connect with their Jewish heritage in a fun and interactive way. The camps also provide a safe and supportive environment where kids can grow and thrive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jewish summer camps in South Florida offer a unique and exciting experience for kids. With a mix of athletics, creativity, and Judaism, these camps provide a well-rounded summer experience that is both fun and meaningful. Whether your child is interested in sports, arts, or Torah studies, there is something for everyone at these camps.
FAQs
Q: What ages do the Jewish summer camps cater to?
A: The camps cater to children from preschool to 10th grade, depending on the camp.
Q: What kind of activities can my child expect at the camp?
A: The camps offer a range of activities, including arts and crafts, cooking, water slides, basketball, morning prayer, Israeli culture, Jewish learning and traditions, and a camp-wide Shabbat.
Q: How do the camps incorporate Judaism into the daily routine?
A: The camps intertwine morning prayer, Israeli culture, Jewish learning and traditions, and a camp-wide Shabbat into the daily routine, making Judaism come alive in a fun and meaningful way.
Q: What is the goal of the Jewish summer camps?
A: The goal is to make Judaism come alive in the most joyful and meaningful ways, while providing a fun and interactive experience for kids.
