Classroom Chronicles: Rosh Hashanah Prep in Full Swing!

This week, our students got hands-on in the kitchen, preparing for Rosh Hashanah by baking round challah, honey cake, and banana bread. Beyond the fun and excitement, baking helps develop fine motor skills as they knead dough and measure ingredients. We lean into our practical life curiculum by cleaning up after ourselves. The smells of fresh challah and honey cake filled the classroom, making the experience all the sweeter!

The Ladybugs crafted mock Shofars to prepare for the holiday by practicing all of the calls. Afterwards, one of our mystery readers, Moshe Nunez, treated us to listening to a real Shofar! The children listened in awe as Mr. Nunez blew each of the calls they had just practiced, bringing their learning experience full circle.

This past week the primary classes gathered in honor of Chai Elul to learn about its significance and celebrate. Chai Elul marks the birthday of two influential figures in Jewish history: the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of the Hasidic movement, and Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of Chabad-Lubavitch . As is customary on a Jewish birthday, the children recited the 12 Pesukim and gave Tzedakah!

While the challah and honey cake were baking, we also made sure to get in plenty of outside playtime, taking advantage of the warm weather (while it is still here!) and enjoying our awesome playground. The Caterpillars even went on a nature walk and then created art with the leaves they found!

Mr. Bear stopped by our classrooms for Music Wednesday! This time, he brought his trumpet and played beautiful melodies that filled the room. The children were captivated by the sounds, learning about different instruments and rhythms while clapping and dancing along. Music class is always a highlight of the week, fostering creativity and an appreciation for the arts!