Mazel Tots Early Literacy Classes

Ages 0–5 Years with a Grown-Up

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

Mazel Tots Early Literacy was created exclusively for the JCC of Staten Island in partnership with PJ Library, bringing families a joyful introduction to the world of reading and language. This monthly grown-up & 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, joyful 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


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


Scheduling and Pricing

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

  • Select Sundays from 10:30am to 11:15am at Avis South Shore JCC

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

  • No commitment classes. Come to one or come to all!

  • Purchase a class pass online and show it to the instructor when you arrive

  • Extra Savings: Purchase a 6 or 10 class bundle (which can also be used on our other walk-in classes for more fun!)


MAZEL TOTS EARLY LITERACY CLASS TESTIMONIALS

Upcoming Mazel Tots Classes at Avis JCC (South Shore) Location