Temple Beth Israel in Waltham, Massachussetts
Breastfeeding in the Sanctuary:
It is both permitted and welcome.
It “Hasn’t been addressed in writing, but I’ve nursed there without issue, trying to cover up without nursing. No one ever commented. I usually cover up or sit not facing people, but haven’t felt inconvenienced.”
Private Nursing Locations:
Other Information:
There are plenty of options for spaces to nurse, if you don’t want to nurse in the sanctuary or the children’s room. They are not designated for the purpose, but are often available.
Genera Child Friendliness:
There is a changing table in the Children’s Room. There is space for strollers to be parked, and there is space for children’s supplies in the coat room. If you needed to store pumped milk, you could probably put it in the main fridge, preferably with a label with your name.
“The congregation loves seeing and hearing children.” They are welcome in the main service. The website adds that “Temple Beth Israel provides babysitting every Shabbat from 10-12. We have a large, carpeted playroom downstairs with a variety of books, toys and games and sufficient space for both quiet and active play. Children are also joyfully welcome in the main service and often move between the playroom and services.” There is a monthly children’s service, aimed at children ages 2-7.
Bottle-feeding is fine in this community.
Wrap-Up:
This synagogue received a rating of
- Great, could barely be better- 1
out of 7, where 1 is the best rating, and 7 is the worst.
Contact Information:
Rabbi David Finkelstein at rabbidavid@tbiwaltham.org
Synagogue Website: http://tbiwaltham.org
Nursing At Shul 