The month of Tishrei is one of the busiest in the Jewish calendar. First we celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. During the Days of Awe leading up to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, we think about those whom we have wronged and ask for forgiveness. Following Yom Kippur, we get ready to sit (or sleep) outside in our sukkahs (booths) to celebrate the wonderful holiday of Sukkot before we finish reading the Torah on Simchat Torah, and dance with the holy scrolls at the synagogue. This is a month filled with thoughtfulness and celebration. Here are several activities you can do with your children to model the value of honoring parents during this special month:
- Make special Rosh Hashanah cards to wish a happy New Year to your closest friends and family. This idea uses an apple cut in half, construction paper and paint.
- Have a family meeting and discuss times when you may have said or done something that might have hurt one another’s feelings. Make some time to talk to your children in private; say you are sorry, tell them you will try to do a better job and ask them for their forgiveness. Then give them a big hug!
- Ask your kids to help you build a sukkah in your backyard. They can make fruit-shaped decorations, paper chains, etc. Here are some templates to get you started. If you can’t build a sukkah of your own, just check this website for places to celebrate near you.
- Dance with your children at a Simchat Torah celebration. Many congregations unroll the entire Torah, and your kids might even get to touch it.