See Pumpkin patch

By Helene Seifer

Tiny tables and chairs and rows of cribs and colorful age-appropriate toys await the arrival of babies in need of nurturing daycare. Known for its thriving preschool for two- to four-year-olds, the Westside Jewish Community Center (WJCC) is putting the final touches on a new program space — a 1,350 square foot infant care center for wee ones aged six weeks to two years.

The Hive, as it’s affectionately called, expects to be up and buzzing by Nov. 1. Hours will be 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays. There will be a 3:1 child-to-teacher ratio, and each teacher is trained in infant and toddler education, first aid and CPR. Safety features include MERV-13 air filters, low VOC paint and on-site security.

Lauren Friedman, the director of Early Childhood Education at WJCC, describes the program: “There will be sensory activities to stimulate brain development, such as using paint or water. We’ll let them get messy, let them explore squishy things, harder things. They will develop motor skills. With the real little ones, we’ll create a safe and warm environment. We’ll engage with them, talk to them, let them know they are safe.”

A dedicated play yard for the children will open in early 2023.

Miracle Mile resident Amanda Johns Perez, WJCC board vice president and Infant Care Center campaign chair, was instrumental in raising $1.3 million for the Center’s children’s facilities, including $800,000 to convert a former dance studio into The Hive.

Caring for the youngest among us is something more and more working parents need. “Demand for childcare has grown,” explains WJCC Executive Director Brian Greene. “Our neighborhood has transitioned from an older population to one with young families.” And those families, Greene observes, appreciate the emphasis on kindness and connection with others that is fostered in all WJCC programs. “Our community at the JCC is so special,” states Friedman, herself a graduate of the Westside JCC preschool. “I’m excited that we get to extend the experience to the younger ones.”

As members of the WJCC at large, Hive families can participate in all of the Center’s activities as well as specific social programs planned for (Please turn to page 31)

THE HIVE, Westside Jewish Community Center’s new infant care center. Photo courtesy of Westside JCC

Pumpkin patch

(Continued from page 1) kins, they also sell gourds, squash and pumpkin carving kits. Pumpkin purchaser Clifford says the soccer ballsize pumpkin, about 10 to 12 pounds, is the most popular, and the largest on the lot are close to 60 pounds.

While looking for the perfect pumpkin, shoppers can participate in a scavenger hunt throughout the lot.

Clifford personally picks the pumpkins at a farm in the middle of nowhere near Santa Paula. She fills two large truck beds by the end of her shopping day.

The Rotary has been selling pumpkins at this Larchmont location for 16 years. The money raised goes right back to the community, with donations directed to Operation School Bell, Red Shield of the Salvation Army, and the visually impaired students at Van Ness Elementary School.

Next at this location, the Rotary will be selling Christmas trees, starting Fri., Nov. 25.

SETTING UP the pumpkins at the Wilshire Rotary Club pumpkin patch.

Photos by Wendy Clifford