How PJ Library Calgary’s Simcha Series Is Redefining Inclusive Jewish Programming

By Jana Zalmanowitz

(AJNews) – Jewish Calgary is home to a wealth of children’s programming. There is a steady stream of holiday parties, learning, and social opportunities hosted by Jewish organizations in the community. A little something for everyone from early childhood to adolescence. Amongst all these engagements is one that is quietly and mindfully paving the way to make sure all Jewish kids (and their parents) can find a space they belong. Enter PJ Library Calgary’s Simcha Series, thoughtfully curated and executed by special educator Andrea Scharfstein.

Andrea is a mom to two young children, a role that first drew her to the PJ Library programming in the community. She also has a passion for education. It’s a passion that earned her a Master’s Degree in supporting education in inclusive classrooms. Before moving to Calgary, Andrea spent her career in Vancouver, teaching in Jewish schools and modeling the tools to create inclusive spaces.

Inclusion put simply can be compared to the difference between choosing to build stairs into a building versus a ramp. A flight of stairs excludes some from entering a room, however building a ramp provides access for all. Inclusion for those with disabilities is not restricted to the physical. Neurodiversity is a concept becoming more well-known. Being “neurodivergent” (as opposed to “neurotypical”) means your brain functions differently from the majority. It includes diagnoses such as ADHD, autism and learning disabilities. Estimates are that 20% of people are neurodivergent, meaning a whopping 20% of people are navigating a world not built for them. Where are their figurative ramps to access Jewish programming? Andrea’s speciality is in equipping people and spaces with those figurative ramps, ensuring that everyone has a point of access.

When you bring together Andrea’s specialized background and love for Jewish education, you get a “Simcha Series.” Now in its second year, the Simcha Series offers a program approximately every two months centred on a Jewish holiday or value. There are classic themes like Hanukkah and Purim which typically attract a lot of community engagement, but there are others like Mitzvot (good deeds) or Tu B’Av, the Jewish day of love which may not be a focus for a lot of children’s programming.

While the themes slightly differentiate the Simcha Series from other Jewish programming, it’s the style that really sets it apart. “I want children and parents to come and feel like they belong. It’s not a program for one type of kid. It’s an environment for all types,” Andrea explains. “I want parents to know that if their kid is different, especially if they’re neurodivergent, that they’re welcomed and not judged.” Andrea had the idea after becoming involved in PJ Library as a parent connector. Many of the PJ Library programs are joyful, promoting a party-like togetherness. Just like a set of stairs, this atmosphere is great for many, but does not provide access for all. Andrea wanted to create something that modelled what a different approach could look like.

When you register for a Simcha Series program, you register for one of three times slots. One caters to the crowd under three years old, another for those who thrive in a calmer setting and a third for those who like the hustle and bustle of a busier environment. When you enter the room, your eye is drawn to different stations. “I want them to have choice. Stations is my favourite word when it comes to anything for the kids.”

Andrea isn’t kidding around with these stations. Each one is thoughtfully planned and taps into different strengths kids may have. There are activities focusing on dramatic play, arts and crafts, building, sensory exploration, book enjoyment, teamwork and of course snacks. December’s Hanukkah program demonstrated this in action. In one area, kids could create gift bags and art for Hanukkah. They could follow this up with rebuilding the temple out of lego or pretending to cook felt sufganiyot (crafted by Andrea herself!) in a play kitchen. Wrapping up might look like packing warmth bags assembly-line style for a shelter or searching the room for hidden dreidels.

When you look around the room, you see children engaged in these intentional activities. They play together, or apart. Whatever they’re inclined to do. Andrea circulates and facilitates in her calm, gentle manner. She follows their lead and offers guidance to kids within the activities while parents also choose their own adventure. “It should feel like a playdate. The parents can get involved, play with their kid and then step back and also talk to other adults. It’s fluid,” she explains.

While the kids have fun, parents also pick up something valuable like a tidbit of unknown or forgotten Jewish knowledge. “For Shavuot we had little digestible books of the book of Ruth and so many parents didn’t know about the book of Ruth.” They may also find some inspiration in something new they want to do at home to liven up their routine during those long days and short years of having little children…I’ve had people say they’re going to try these things at home which is great to hear.”

You may be marveling at how lucky the community is to have such a welcoming program, planned by a skilled educator. The piece of the story you don’t already know is that Andrea also comes at this project through the lens of a parent. “My oldest son is neurodivergent. He’s not always so successful in the traditional programs so I really had him in mind in terms of what would help him be successful at a program while still learning and engaging in Jewish things.” The Simcha series is proving to do just that. It’s helping all kids enjoy being a part of their community. How does Andrea know she’s meeting her mission? “The kids have enjoyed it. They’ve felt taken care of and they want to come back. That’s the biggest compliment.”

 Jana Zalmanowitz is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.