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The heart of camp

Judaism that kids sing in the car home

Jewish life at DJDC isn't a class bolted onto camp — it's the soundtrack. Kids go home humming their favorite Jewish song, telling Jewish stories at bedtime, proud of who they are.

How religious is the camp?

DJDC is a completely non-judgmental environment for campers from all Jewish backgrounds. No prior Jewish education is needed, and a child's level of observance is never stressed.

Every child shares the same Jewish spirit through songs, projects, celebrations and friendship. Values are taught the way kids learn best — through play, and through the example of counselors they adore.

Food follows the same spirit of welcome: camp is nut-free, lunches from home are dairy or (non-shellfish) fish, and the optional catered hot lunch is kid-friendly for everyone.

Campers cooking together at the camp kitchen workshop

The Jewish rhythm of camp

Every morning

A coin for tzedakah — campers start each day with the habit of giving.

All day long

Hebrew songs, Jewish stories, and weekly Judaic themes woven through games, contests and treasure hunts.

Every Friday

Campers bake their own fresh challah, then the whole camp celebrates together at the Shabbat party.

All summer

A deep, joyful pride in Jewish heritage and a love for the land of Israel.

Small hands shaping challah dough at the baking table
A camper kneading challah dough up close
Campers in white chef hats at the cooking workshop
Campers in chef hats shaping challah dough together

Fridays are the crescendo

The week builds to Shabbat: challah dough under small fingers, candles, songs the whole camp knows, and a party that sends everyone home glowing. Traditions like the Challah Fairy and the Friday Night Family Shabbat Experience turn Jewish memory into something kids look forward to all week.

“Camp is not only fun filled with adventures each and every day but instills Judaism in such a fun way that it actually sticks and makes them feel proud! What more can a Jewish mama ask for?! You guys are simply the best!!”
— Julia, camp parent

See how Jewish life fits into the day on the typical-day page, or bring your questions to the Jewish life FAQ.

Give them a summer of Jewish pride.