Central Tots - Central Synagogue - Central Synagogue, a Reform congregation in Midtown Manhattan

Welcome to Central Tots—Central Synagogue’s community for families with children from ages birth to 2 years old. We offer both enrollment-based and drop-in classes led by warm and experienced early childhood educators. You do not need to be a member of Central Synagogue to register.

Uptown Enrollment-Based Classes 2024-25

Toddler Time

Mondays & Wednesdays, September 16, 2024–June 5, 2025, 9:15–10:45 am

Through Toddler Time, children ages 18–24 months are introduced to the school through blocks, puzzles, art materials, music, movement, and stories. While parallel play is the norm at this age, children enjoy being together and begin learning how to be part of a group under the guidance of experienced infant and toddler specialists on the Central Synagogue early childhood team. Throughout the year, Jewish holidays and Shabbat are brought to life and celebrated in meaningful, age-appropriate ways. Register below.

Shabbat A Lot

Fridays, September 20, 2024–December 20, 2024, 11:00–11:45 am

Children ages 12–24 months are invited to join Central’s guitar-playing music specialists for this weekly class, which explores Shabbat through song, dance, and play. Every child must be accompanied by a parent or trusted caregiver for the entirety of each session. Register below.

Tiny Tots (sold out)

Mondays & Wednesdays, September 16, 2024–June 4, 2025, 11:15 am–12:00 pm

At Tiny Tots, children aged 9–14 months are gently introduced to a classroom environment through play, projects, stories, classroom exploration, and more. Taught by our warm and experienced Central Tots staff, students will learn classroom routines and about Jewish holidays while interacting with peers. By January, as the students become more accustomed to class, our sessions will extend to 60 minutes. All children must be accompanied by a trusted grown-up for the entire class. Register below.

Early Explorers (sold out)

Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 17, 2024–June 5, 2025, 11:15 am–12:15 pm

In this introduction to a classroom setting, children ages 12–18 months will create new friendships, learn how to be part of a group, and become accustomed to routines. Our teachers spark their interest with activities such as storytime, art, music, puppets, and movement. This class is sold out.

Uptown Weekly Drop-In Classes 2024-25

(Birth–16 Months)

Pre-registration is required to attend drop-in classes. Central Tots will send a registration link out on Sundays for all classes taking place that week. To receive our weekly registration links, add your information to our uptown drop-in email list.

Midday Music & Play

Beginning September 18, 2024 | Thursdays, 12:30–1:15 pm | Community House

Join us for music, stories, puppets, and more! Connect with other families with infants in our community in a relaxed and supportive setting. Join the mailing list to be notified of upcoming classes.

Join the mailing list

Parenting Playdate: A Gathering for New Parents and Caregivers

Beginning September 19, 2024 | Thursdays, 12:30–1:15 pm | Community House

New parents and their babies are invited to join Rena Allen, Central's Director of Developmental Learning, for a baby-friendly program that will leave you feeling supported, informed, and empowered. Join the mailing list to be notified of upcoming classes.

Join the mailing list

Uptown Services

Shabbat Central (ages 0-5)

Join Shira Kobren Wasserman and Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal on select Friday evenings and Saturday mornings for song, movement, prayer, and stories. Learn more

DOWNTOWN 2024-25

Shabbat Central (ages 0-5)

Join Rabbinic Intern Aaron Blasband-Roth and Cantorial Intern Jeremy Sipe on select Friday evenings and Saturday mornings for song, movement, prayer, and stories. Learn more

Shabbat A Lot

Fridays, September 20, 2024–December 20, 2024, 9:30-10:15 am | Hebrew Union College

Children ages three and under are invited to join Central’s guitar-playing music specialists for this weekly class, which explores Shabbat through song, dance, and play. Every child must be accompanied by a parent or trusted caregiver for the entirety of each session. Register below.