Not quite Junior Congregation, but a real success

In many synagogues the states and Canada, too I think, it's the general custom to have the children pray separately from their parents in what is known as "Junior Congregation." It's rare in Israel, probably because the kids manage to follow along at a younger age, since language isn't a problem.

Also, in Israel, most shuls don't have a weekly sermon, which can really make kids, and some adults, rather antsy.

This year for Rosh Hashannah, our neighborhood synagogue did things pretty well. No, I'm not taking credit; I'm not on the committee.

There was a community Kiddush during the break before Shofar blowing. Actually, since we live very close by, we found it easier to go home. I was also able to put food on the platta, electric hotplate, so it would be ready for the meal. When we got back, there was a 15 minute sermon, and at the same time there was a children's activity. Then we all heard shofar blowing and during Musaf, some girls took the kids to a nearby playground.

On regular Shabbatot we have a "Children's Kiddush" just after the Prayers; at the same time in the summer, there's a short Dvar Torah, Torah Talk.