Laura Copel

Laura Copel is the Union for Reform Judaism's coordinator for engagement of families with young children. An avid musician, she teaches at three synagogues and volunteers in the t’filah band and with the sisterhood at Temple Israel of Northern Westchester in Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y., her home congregation. Laura grew up in the Boston area and resides north of Manhattan, where she and her husband raised three children.

BimBam

Video: How to Make 18-Minute Matzah

Laura Copel

Got flour, water, oil and a fork? That’s all you need to make your own matzah! Follow along with food blogger, cookbook author, and producer Gabi Moskowitz as she walks us through it.

PJ Library

Sadie’s Snowy Tu B’Shevat

Laura Copel

Sadie is determined to plant a tree for Tu BiShvat, the birthday of the trees. She imagines one that will eventually grow big enough to hold a swing and yield crunchy, sweet apples. Unfortunately, it is winter where she lives – but she keeps on trying.

Family Activities

Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas: A Book Review and Discussion Guide

Laura Copel

"Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas" by Pamela Ehrenberg, illustrated by Anjan Sarkar, is the perfect read for your 5- and 6-year-olds this Hanukkah.

Photo by Leonard Diamond, Barnert Temple, Franklin Lakes, NJ

Shabbat

Playlist: Songs for an Enjoyable Shabbat with Your Family

Laura Copel

Music is what makes Shabbat special for countless people the world over. After a good Shabbat meal, many people sing songs at their table. Others sing at synagogue. Lots of people do both

Discussion Guide

Sadie and the Big Mountain

Laura Copel

When her early childhood class plans a Shavuot hike, Sadie is afraid she won’t be able to make it to the top of the “mountain” and tries to think of ways to avoid the walk. When the day arrives, it’s much different (and better!) than Sadie expected.