For working families who have tiny tots, the Soref JCC in Plantation has started an innovative program that offers infants a chance to grow and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.
The program actually began at the Heron Lakes Soref JCC facility in Parkland in February of 2010 and quickly was filled to capacity. The Soref JCC in Plantation and the Alvin Gross facility located adjacent to the Coral Square Mall opened in August of this year.
“There is a tremendous need for this program in the community so we are offering the program at all three of our JCC locations,” said Judy Kissel, Soref JCC early childhood and camp director. “We offer child care in a warm, nurturing Jewish environment with highly experienced, loving teachers.”
Each program has a capacity of eight infants aged three months to 12 months with three teachers per class. Programs are available from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The JCC program in Plantation received funding from the Jewish Community Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Broward County.
“We are very appreciative of the Jewish Community Foundation of Broward County whose generous support enabled us to bring this vital service to fruition in Plantation,” said Donald Graw, Soref JCC executive director.
“The Foundation gave us the money to purchase hi chairs, swings, baby toys and other necessary equipment,” Kissel said.
For Lisa and Scott Bayne of Tamarac, the program is invaluable. Lisa works at Kids in Distress and her husband is a firefighter. Their son, Tyler, is three months old and is enrolled in the program.
“They treat you like family,” said Lisa Bayne. “The facility is very clean and you don’t have to worry about leaving your child there. They have experienced teachers and they know what babies need to have to thrive.”
Dana and Asas Hizkiya of Plantation have nine month old twin boys in the program. Dana is a real estate agent and her husband works in sales and marketing.
“We have flexible schedules but it is hard to take the twins places,” said Dana Hizkiya. “They each weigh 18 pounds. So, they end up staying home most of the time and they don’t get enough stimulation. The program at the JCC offers them an opportunity to be with other children and to socialize instead of just staying home with a nanny.”
Limited space is available in the two new locations and the Heron Lakes facility has a waiting list.
For information or to arrange a tour, call 954-587-7033 in Plantation or 954-344-6790 for the Alvin Gross facility.
