Download “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his

“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him
in his language, that goes to his heart,” - Nelson Mandela.
Being multilingual has been proven to greatly benefit children in a number of ways, as
research dating back to the 1960s has shown that bilingualism is considered to be a cognitive,
social, and educational advantage. Consequently, bilingual students tend to outperform their
monolingual peers in key cognitive tasks.
The Park Slope Russian-speaking community has recognized this growing trend and has
been focusing on retaining the “mother” language and culture in its children. Park Slope parents
have leaned onto the local Marks JCH Kibbutznik Program, a first of its kind Russian
engagement concept, for help. One of Kibbutznik core features is a Russian Immersion Day
Camp that focuses on early engagement of children 2-6 years old through an innovative and
informal Russian Language Program.
The Kibbutznik philosophy is to help children retain their Russian roots and encourage
their development through immersive play and exploration. One of the parents enjoys that her
children can “spend their summer with nurturing staff and learn about books and music that [she]
was raised with before immigrating to the United States.” Kibbutznik campers are always on the
go: learning yoga, spending time outdoors, swimming, reading, time-traveling, conducting
experiments and visiting museums - all while being stimulated by Russian Jewish culture.
Kibbutznik leads thought-provoking events and family-centered programs at the
crossroads of Russian and Jewish identities. Kibbutznik is generously funded by the Genesis
Philanthropy Group and extends the vision of Marks JCH to Park Slope for co-creating a
compelling Jewish experience for parents and children alike.
For Kibbutznik program information you may call 718-943-6334 or email
[email protected].