Mazel Tots Early Literacy Classes

Ages 0–5 Years with a Grown-Up. Reserve Your Spot!

A monthly grown-up and me literacy adventure where little learners and their families sing, rhyme, and explore the joy of PJ Library books—together.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Mazel Tots Early Literacy was created exclusively for the JCC of Staten Island in partnership with PJ Library, bringing families a fun introduction to the world of reading and language. This monthly grown-up and me experience invites young children and their caregivers to celebrate the magic of stories about Jewish heritage and culture through songs, rhymes, and playful early literacy activities.

Each session begins with a themed story that sparks imagination and sets the stage for hands-on activities designed just for little learners. From exploring sounds and rhythm, to building vocabulary through movement and play, every class helps children connect with language in meaningful, age-appropriate ways.

Rooted in the values of family connection and community, Mazel Tots Early Literacy nurtures a love of books while giving families tools to bring early literacy practices into their everyday routines. Together, grown-ups and children will discover that the foundation for lifelong learning begins with simple, fun moments shared around stories.

What To Expect

  • Select monthly themed literacy sessions created exclusively for the JCC of Staten Island in partnership with PJ Library

  • Stories, songs, rhymes, and playful language activities designed for ages 0–5 and their grown-ups

  • Group discovery time + independent exploration to support different ages and learning styles

  • Interactive story starters to spark imagination and early communication skills

  • Led by a family life educator, who started her career as an early literacy specialist

  • Designed for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and multi-age families to share the joy of books and language side by side

JOIN A CLASS

Why It Works

  • Builds early language, communication, and pre-reading skills through stories, songs, and play

  • Strengthens memory, attention, and listening skills in age-appropriate ways

  • Turns abstract literacy concepts into fun, hands-on experiences little ones can see and feel

  • Encourages family bonding through shared storytelling, singing, and exploration

  • Adapted for multiple learning styles and developmental stages, from babies to preschoolers

JOIN A CLASS

Scheduling and Pricing

  • This class occurs during the school year from October through Spring

  • Select Sundays from 10:00am to 10:45am at Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd

  • Priced Per Family: $25 non-JCC members, $20 JCC members

  • Reservation is REQUIRED. Please purchase Mazel Tots on the JotForm the Friday before the class takes place. If you have a 6 or 10 class bundle, please email us at hello@happydayplay.com to reserve.

RESERVE

MAZEL TOTS EARLY LITERACY CLASS TESTIMONIALS

  • "We saw a flyer about this class and decided to check it out. The teacher was wonderful and the activities were engaging. I expected storytime, but it is a more immersive experience! We had a lot of fun!

    - Julia E.

  • "We're not Jewish but we love Happy Day Play's programming and knew Ms. Kaitlynn had a background in early literacy. My children and I learned more about Sukkot by building a hut after reading a story. We also did parachute and bubbles (my kids' favorite!) What a great class!

    - Maria C.

  • "A very unique concept for a class for everyone. This class is done in a way that brings all walks of life together, which is needed nowadays. We are grateful."

    -Jacob K.

JOIN A CLASS

Upcoming Mazel Tots Classes at Bernikow JCC (Mid Island) Location

Featured
Mazel Tots Early Literacy Class: New Year Celebrations, Ages 0 to 5 Years, Big Helper Older Siblings Welcome - RESERVATION REQUIRED
Oct 18
Mazel Tots Early Literacy
Mazel Tots Early Literacy Class: New Year Celebrations, Ages 0 to 5 Years, Big Helper Older Siblings Welcome - RESERVATION REQUIRED
Mazel Tots Early Literacy

An early-literacy session built around the stories and songs of the Jewish New Year. This class supports vocabulary, listening, and story comprehension all while having fun! Celebrate Jewish culture and ignite early literacy skills in this unique, culturally enriched class for toddlers and preschoolers. In partnership with PJ Library and the JCC of Staten Island, Mazel Tots is exclusive to the JCC. This class combines storytelling, songs, and engaging activities to introduce children to Jewish traditions while fostering a love of reading and learning.

Read more →
Mazel Tots Early Literacy
Mazel Tots Early Literacy Class: Chanukah, Ages 0 to 5 Years, Big Helper Older Siblings Welcome - RESERVATION REQUIRED
Nov 22
Mazel Tots Early Literacy
Mazel Tots Early Literacy Class: Chanukah, Ages 0 to 5 Years, Big Helper Older Siblings Welcome - RESERVATION REQUIRED
Mazel Tots Early Literacy

An early-literacy session introducing the Chanukah story through books, songs, and hands-on props. This class supports vocabulary, sequencing, and story comprehension. Celebrate Jewish culture and ignite early literacy skills in this unique, culturally enriched class for toddlers and preschoolers. In partnership with PJ Library and the JCC of Staten Island, Mazel Tots is exclusive to the JCC. This class combines storytelling, songs, and engaging activities to introduce children to Jewish traditions while fostering a love of reading and learning.

Read more →
Mazel Tots Early Literacy