Learn & Explore Together

Youth & Family

The Bender JCC invites growing families to connect, learn, play, and thrive together in our community—whether they are Jewish, Jew-ish, or not Jewish at all!

Two men and two children, at a table drawing with colored pencils. A woman stands behind them, smiling. A play tent and decorative fabric are in the background.

Make Time for Family 

For generations, Montgomery County families have turned to the Bender JCC for support. We make it easy for busy families to find meaningful, kid-friendly activities. Our diverse programs and events bring parents, grandparents, children, and caregivers closer, creating lasting friendships and a strong sense of community. We offer resources that help families grow and connect in ways that work best for them, all in an environment where everyone feels welcome and at home.

PreSchool at The Bender JCC

The Bender Early Childhood Center

Bring your child to the Bender Early Childhood Center (ECC), where we create a nurturing, inclusive environment for children of all backgrounds and faiths. We help students develop their identities, explore their interests, and grow into their best selves while supporting their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

Children playing with sand and toys at a sensory table while two adults watch and smile in a classroom setting.

Lessans Camp JCC:
A Fully Inclusive Summer Day Camp

At Lessans Camp JCC, every child in the Greater Washington D.C. area— regardless of cognitive, developmental, or physical ability—can experience the joys of summer camp. Our nationally recognized inclusion program makes each individual feel connected and that they belong in our community.

Children play by jumping into a swimming pool, with colorful lounge chairs in the background. One child is mid-air, and others are swimming or preparing to jump.

The Bender-Dosik Parenting and Grandparenting Centers

Celebrate generational bonds at the Bender JCC. The Bender-Dosik Parenting Center provides opportunities and a space to foster community and gatherings through programs and classes for children ages 0-3, their parents, and caregivers. Likewise, the Bender-Dosik Grandparenting Center is committed to enriching and celebrating the grandparenting experience. We intentionally design our programs to create meaningful connections between grandparents and grandchildren through shared activities and involvement.

Older woman, young child, and older man smiling at an outdoor event, with trees and people in the background.

After School Enrichment

Leave the schlep-ing to us! With parents and families busier than ever, the Bender JCC makes it easy to find meaningful, kid-friendly activities for after school, winter and spring breaks, and school-out days. Our wide range of programs and events brings children kids, families, and caregivers closer together.

A man kneels, smiling with two young children. The girl is on the left in a floral dress; the boy is on the right in a blue shirt. They are indoors, and there is a green table in the background.

Jewish Family Ambassadors (JFA)

The Bender JCC welcomes parents raising Jewish children into our community! Our Jewish Family Ambassadors (JFAs) will connect you with other parents in your neighborhood, to local programming, and to whatever else might interest you in the Jewish community. As the parent of a child under the age of six, you’ll have the opportunity to meet with our JFAs over coffee, or virtually if you prefer; and the chance to learn about exciting family activities that are available for your little ones where you live. Included is a JFA welcome gift tote filled with goodies. Our treat!

A group of adults and children laughing and walking together in a hallway with cubbies and wall decorations.

Your Support Makes Us Stronger

The Bender JCC relies on the generosity of our donors and members to keep our programs and services accessible to all. Both membership dues and donor gifts support our mission and help us meet the diverse needs of our vibrant community.

A woman in a black dress and sunglasses holds onto a toddler boy smiling as he climbs the jungle gym. A toddler girl in a black and white dress climbs next to him.