Jewish Press of Pinellas County

Federation launches Cub House program for babies, parents


Randi Nash-Ortiz

Randi Nash-Ortiz

A “mommy and me” style program is being introduced by the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Called “Cub House,” the weekly classes are for infants 6-14 months old and parents/ caregivers.

“ T h e program will offer the opportunity for you to grow and discover with your little one through developmentally appropriate activities, exploration, play, music and movement, stories and songs,” said the Federation’s new Early Childhood and Parenting specialist, Randi Nash-Ortiz. With a career in early childhood education that spans more than 30 years, Nash-Ortiz director of Early Childcare at Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg for the last 17 years.

The first 9-week session of Cub House will begin Monday, Oct. 24 and continue on Mondays through Dec. 19. Classes will be held from 10-11:15 a.m. at the Federation offices, 13191 Starkey Road, Suite 8 in Largo.

“The Jewish Federation of Florida’s

Gulf Coast strives to ensure the continuity of Jewish life and culture,” said Executive Director Maxine Kaufman. “We are finding continued success in engaging members of our local Jewish community of all ages through programs such as PJ Library (6 months-8), PJ Our Way (9-11), Better To Serve (teens), The Tribe (20s and 30s), F Troop (40s and 50s), and Sociable Singles (60+). The Cub House provides opportunity for new parents and caretakers to connect, while providing enrichment for their new babies – forming ties with our community from the very beginning of life.”

Classes are $10 each, or purchase the full session in advance for the discounted rate of $80. Learn more at JewishGulfCoast.org/cubhouse or call Kaufman at (727) 530-3223 for more information. Space is limited.

Cub House is a collaboration with PJ Library, which seeks to encourage Jewish families with young children to explore Jewish literature. Each month PJ Library sends an age-appropriate Jewish content book or CD to enrolled children. Created by The Harold Grinspoon Foundation, PJ Library is funded by local philanthropists and organizations in partnership with the foundation.

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