Tisha B’av Camp Much Needed Break for kids… and Parents

By Judith Dinowitz

On Sunday, August 18th, Warren Levi Martial Arts, located at 136 Washington Avenue in Cedarhurst, will again be extending a helping hand to Jewish parents by entertaining their children, ages 3 and up, at the school’s Tisha B’Av Camp.

Already, numerous parents have signed their children up for the day-long, game-filled camp. In its third year, the camp provides a full, 9-4 program, including a magic show, face painting, bubbles, an obstacle course, relay races, freeze dances and inflatables. Kosher lunch and snacks are provided, and early drop-off and pick-up times are included in the $60 cost.

Sam Drevin, a Director at the school, explained that the camp was initiated due to requests by parents, who wanted an outlet for their children during the long summer fast. “Since we already do camps, we decided to create something to help the parents. The kids have a lot of fun while their parents observe Tisha B’Av.”

The rabbit's out of the hat: Warren Levi events are fun! A recent magic show at the school.	Raphael Levi holds a balloon at the magic show.

Warren Levi Martial Arts, which was opened over 10 years ago by owner and chief instructor Warren Levi, is known for its focus on character development and fitness. The five maxims of the school speak of developing good character and refraining from violence. “Karate is not just fun. It’s not just competition… It builds self-confidence, responsibility, develops focus. And of course, there are the benefits of developing better motor and sensory skills,” said Drevin.

Warren Levi said, “To survive and thrive in today's world, it is necessary to be both spiritually and physically strong and alert. I would like to wish the parents of our community an easy and meaningful Tisha B'Av fast while we provide your children with kosher meals and meaningful fun-filled activities designed to build both physical strength and character. As we say every time we conclude a book of the Torah, ‘Hazak Hazak Venithazek’: You should be strong, I should be strong and let's be strong together."

To sign up for the Tisha B’av camp, email warrenlevimartialarts@gmail.com or call 516-569-0808.