The last time we attended services at our synagogue, we kept him with us instead of sending him with his peers to the Junior Congregation most attend. He read the entire Torah portion along with the associated Midrash, or explanatory stories, included in the text. He was so engrossed that he refused to participate further in the services with the exception of listening to the Rabbi's drash, or sermon, about what we had just read. At the conclusion of the service, he asked us if he could stay and read the Torah every Saturday in the future instead of going with his peers.
Herein lies our dilemma.
While it is wonderful that he is so deeply interested in this aspect of his Judaism, it does nothing to help him find a place within our community unless he chooses to become a Rabbi. Since his heart is set on becoming a chemist or a marine biologist, I seriously doubt that ordination is in his future. But there are no deep and meaningful Torah study groups for young children in our neighborhood. Religious school is focused on building a Jewish identity in terms of observances, ritual and a connection with Israel. He is thought to be too young for Torah and Talmudic study, which frustrates him and actually alienates him. Our Rabbi invited us to start a group, but assured us that no one she knew would come. I wonder if that is true. For now I'll do my best to satisfy his curiosity. But I'd like to find a few peers for him as well.