Earlier in the week, Kindergartners heard stories entitled, The Hanukkah Guest by Eric Kimmel (about an unexpected holiday visitor) and The Only One Club about a child who was the only one in her class to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. In our class, we have three! One of our families graciously came to visit and share with us!
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| Menorah candle holder designs are another way to express innovation and creativity. |
Family's bring a wealth of knowledge, authenticity, and personal touches to cultural traditions! Mom explained that although Hanukkah is not the most significant Jewish holiday, it is none the less as beautiful, light and present- filled, and fun as the Christian holiday of Christmas. Although this Jewish holiday rotates based on the calendar, it sometimes falls right before or simultaneously to Christmas.
The purpose of the daily lighting of a menorah (candle holder) the use the shamash (helper candle), the eating of traditional foods fried in oil (such as latkes), and the receiving of nightly gifts was explained. Another Hanukkah tradition involves playing the Dreidel game. It includes using a spinning top adorned with the Hebrew letters representing "A Miracle Happened Here" that commemorates the historical event of a Jewish Temple lights staying lit for 8 days with only enough oil to last for one, and receiving gelt (chocolate coins) as a prize.
Also, a beautiful Hanukkah story, In the Month of Kislev was read about a man who was so selfish he even wanted to charge his impoverished neighbors a fine for smelling his food.
Lastly, a special blessing was recited in Hebrew by mom and daughter. At the end of the blessing, the Kindergartners eagerly translated the now familiar word "Hanukkah! Kindergartners also received donut treats, their own dreidels to take home, and participated in a menorah making craft. Enlightening!
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