Holidays with family are supposed to be joyous, right? Especially the ones we’re heading into right now. Well, like so many parenting myths, not always. Our parental instinct is to protect kids from bad news, at the holidays and at all times. But sometimes, it’s better to teach our kids how to handle challenging news.…
Where Have All The Dreidels Gone?
In honor of Chanukah, Im re-posting this adorable tale from last year with some updates. I know it borders on lazy, but Ive got latkes to make and gelt to buy. And its not like anything has changed. Its as timely now as it was 12 months ago. Sad. But true. LChaim.
Hanukah Hostess Gifts
Youre going to a Hanukkah party and want to show the hostess how much you appreciate the invitation, but you might find yourself wondering what kind of hostess gift to bring. Here are plenty of ideas – enough that you could use a different one each day of the eight-day-long celebration if necessary. Set the Table
How to Recite the Three Hanukkah Blessings
A Hanukkah primer for the blessings over the candles Hanukkah is one of the most festive Jewish holidays, filled with joyous traditions, gifts, games and delicious foods like potato latkes, donuts and chocolate coins. Whats not to like? The Hanukkah story in a nutshell:
Dreidel Game for Kids
Perhaps the best-known Jewish toy, the dreidel–a spinning top traditionally made of wood–has a place in the homes of Jewish children around the world. Most often played for chocolate coins called “gelt,” or M&Ms for those whose sweet tooth overrules concern for historical accuracy, the dreidel reminds Jews of the Hanukkah story’s miracle of the oil.
Lighting the Chanukah Bush
I had an amazing weekend with my family. Besides all the driving from city to city I did to make my older girls happy, the rest of the time was spent enjoying some of my favorite family traditions.
How to Light the Menorah With Your Kids
The Chanukah menorah is a candelabrum with nine branches. Jewish families light the menorah each year to celebrate the Festival of Lights, symbolic of the miracle of one day’s worth of lamp oil lasting for eight days. For this reason, the holiday is observed for eight nights. Lighting the menorah each night of Chanukah is one way not only to teach children more about their Jewish heritage and spiritual traditions, but also to promote a sense of belonging that helps families grow closer.
Hanukkah Safety Tips
Hanukkah is a time for celebration with family. Unfortunately, it is also an occasion filled with health and safety risks, which can put a damper on holiday tradition. But despite the extra hazards present at this time of year, following some simple common sense tips can help keep you and your family safe and healthy throughout your Hanukkah festivities.