Kindergarten Judaic Studies


Hebrew Language Arts
The Hebrew language is introduced naturally to children in Kindergarten by creating an educational setting that is rich in oral Hebrew expression. The frequent repetition of Hebrew words and phrases leads to the ability to speak as well as comprehend the language. We call children by their Hebrew names, refer to school materials and activities in Hebrew, sing Hebrew songs, and play a variety of games in Hebrew.  In these ways, Kindergarten students develop a substantial active and passive Hebrew vocabulary.

Torah Study
Kindergarten students become familiar with the major narrative stories in Genesis and Exodus through dramatic play, role-playing, puppetry, and art activities. In addition, the stories provide an avenue for teaching and reinforcing Jewish values. Each year kindergarten students conclude their study of Torah with the creation of their own video in which they dramatize the stories they have learned.

Shabbat, Holidays, Prayer
Shabbat, holidays, and prayer are taught through multi-sensory experiences and activities. Students "experience" Shabbat by participating in a primary-grade Kabbalat Shabbat program that includes singing Shabbat songs, baking their own small hallot each week, and ending Shabbat each Monday when they do Havdalah with their seventh grade buddies. A similar kind of active, hands-on approach characterizes their study of the holidays. A highlight of the Kindergarten program occurs at Passover when the students prepare and participate in a seder that they share with other family members. Students learn the blessings associated with the holidays as well as several of the daily morning prayers. They create their own class Siddur in which they illustrate the meaning of the prayers.

Israel
Students begin to develop a love for Israel in Kindergarten. Students learn numerous songs and Israeli dances. Israel Independence Day is the culmination of their study of important cities and places in Israel. Special emphasis is placed on the study of the city of Jerusalem during our preparation for Jerusalem Day.