Laura Jontoff Hutter thought she was just tagging along. Her daughter had spent months preparing for the JewQ competition, and the CKids Shabbaton, was the culmination of her hard work. Laura and her husband came as proud parents, expecting to watch from the sidelines. But by the end of the weekend, it was clear—this experience was just as much for them as it was for their daughter.
“We went for our kids but ended up loving it ourselves,” Laura shared. “The incredible food and entertainment were highlights, but it was the connections—the conversations in the lobby, sharing l’chaims, even getting job advice—that made it unforgettable. My husband played late-night ping pong with rabbis. It felt like sleepaway camp!”
In a world where raising Jewish children has become increasingly complex—where antisemitism in schools, social media influence, and shifting cultural values present new challenges—the CKids Shabbaton offers parents a rare opportunity: to connect, recharge, and realize they are not alone.
While their children celebrate their Torah learning and compete in the JewQ International Championship, parents will have their own track of engaging speakers, thought-provoking discussions, and meaningful connections. Scholars-in-residence Rabbi Simon and Shaindy Jacobson will lead sessions addressing the unique struggles of raising Jewish children today, offering insights rooted in Chassidus.
For the parents, the weekend is about more than learning—it’s about finding their community.
“I was amazed at the energy and warmth of the entire event,” said Kim Jacobs, a proud JewQ parent. “From the inspiring speakers to the Shabbat meals, everything was thoughtfully designed to create an unforgettable atmosphere of connection and growth.”
“It’s a rare opportunity for these selfless parents to focus on their own personal journey,” says Rabbi Zalmy Loewenthal, director of CKids International at Merkos 302. “Throughout the year they’ve been supporting their children who have been studying and competing in JewQ, and now they get to be part of that celebration, learning and growing alongside them.”
Beyond the learning, the Shabbaton is structured to foster meaningful relationships. Parents will gather for gourmet dining experiences, a sushi and cocktail soirée, and plenty of casual moments to meet others navigating the same journey.
“What surprised me the most was the feeling of being surrounded by my Jewish brothers and sisters,” shared Aron Elbaz. “It didn’t change me; rather, it reminded me of what had been missing and filled a void that had been there for a long time.”
Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, executive director of Merkos 302, sees this initiative as essential. “The parents of these children are the unsung heroes,” he says. “This weekend gives them a chance to celebrate their role, recharge, and take inspiration back home”
To find out more about the CKids Shabbaton parents program and register, visit CKids.org/Shabbaton.
