TBANS Monthly Thoughts - December 2018

First Hanukkah Candle - This Sunday, December 2, 2018

“Playing dreidel, eating latkes and getting gelt each night may sound delightful in children’s books, but I can’t imagine it’s realistic in all Jewish homes. Let’s be honest: Lots of Jewish kids obsess over holiday catalogs that arrive daily in our mailboxes and dream of the presents they may get for Hanukkah. Hanukkah was never supposed to replace Christmas, but at some point this tradition of 8 nights of gifts (a la Christmas) became part of the Hanukkah many of us know and love. So instead of completely trying to fight the Christmas imitation, I’ve come to embrace it by adding my own practical and meaningful twist to the nightly celebrations”. –Adapted from “8 Nights of Hanukkah without Creating Spoiled Brats,” by Nina Brazdin, Kveller, 11/12

8 Nights of Fun and Meaningful Experiences

It’s only 8 nights, and here are 16 ideas for celebrating Hanukkah in ways that convey our values and goals to our children. Think – having fun together, giving to others in need, celebrating Jewish traditions, welcoming others into our homes, and repairing the world. Even if you’ve already planned your gift-giving, consider integrating some of these ideas into your week. You will contribute to your children’s “attitude of gratitude.”  For blessings, songs, recipes and more, visit the Union for Reform Judaism's website here.

Celebrate Hanukkah Together!

Send us Your Hanukkiah Lighting Photo  One mitzvah (commandment) of Hanukkah is to share the lights of the candles with the community. That is why many Jews put their Hanukkiah in the front window of their home for others to see. We'd like to share in another way. Please send us a photo of your family lighting the candles to post in our hallway. Include everyone's names so we can label your picture correctly. Email your photo and information to Ellen Bortz: EEB@BethAmi.org

New Sign-Ups for TBANS Early Arrival, January - June, registration form here . Challah Club, January - June, registration form here . December Calendar Highlights 5 Hanukkah Magic Show (in school) 13 Professional Day - no classes 13 Parent Committee Book Fair at TBA

14 Gimel Tot Shabbat, 6:30 pm 21 Community Shabbat, 9:30 am, and Challah Tots 22 Winter Break Begins January 2 - TBANS re-opens See the full calendar here . Contact Jill for further information.

Paula Sayag, Ph.D., Director * Temple Beth Ami Nursery School * PLS@BethAmi.org * 301-762-5594