So, you've decided it's time to find an appropriate Jewish Educational Program for your child - or maybe your current program isn't working and you want to know what's out there. So what are the options? Where do you start?

How to find a Jewish Educational Program for your child:
Understanding Denominational Differences

The following is a breakdown of options based on the major denominations of Judaism in order to help you find a good fit for your family. Keep in mind that you do not always need to be affiliated with a particular movement of Judaism in order to enroll your child in their program, but your child's conversion status (if applicable) will need to be acceptable according to their guidelines. For help in locating a program or school, contact your local synagogue or Jewish Federation.

- Orthodox: Most Orthodox Jews send their children to a yeshiva - a Jewish day school. These schools generally have longer days than their public school counterparts because half the day is spent on general studies, and half is spent on Judais subjects. Large emphasis placed on Bible studies and the study of Jewish law.

There are a few Orthodox supplementary/ congregational school programs (commonly referred to as Hebrew School or Religious School) throughout the country. Although Orthodox in nature and philosophy, the majority of these programs are for outreach purposes.

- Conservative: Many Conservative families send their children to a day school as well, most of which are Solomon Schechter Day Schools. Emphasis generally placed on studies in Jewish History and conversational Hebrew.

Other Conservative Jewish families send their children to public or non-parochial private schools during the day and Jewish supplementary/ congregational school programs at other times. These programs usually meet two to three days per week (example: Sunday morning and Tuesday afternoon). Emphasis is placed on Hebrew necessary for a Bar/ Bat Mitzvah services and knowledge of Jewish life cycle events. Some students continue their studies in a high school program as well.

- Reform and Reconstructionist Movements - Although I have heard of a few non-denominational or possibly Reform day schools, most families in these movements send their children to public or non-parochial private schools and give their children a Jewish education through a congregational or supplementary program.