In early years settings, Yom Kippur can be introduced in a way that is inclusive, focusing on themes like forgiveness, kindness, and respect.
Read stories about forgiveness and kindness: Read age-appropriate stories and picture books that focus on themes of forgiveness, kindness, and respect. Discuss the stories and encourage children to share their thoughts and feelings about these themes.
Create a forgiveness or kindness chain: Invite children to write or draw examples of forgiveness or acts of kindness on strips of paper, and then link them together to form a chain. Display the chain in the setting as a reminder of the importance of forgiveness and kindness.
Parent involvement: Invite Jewish parents or community members to share their own experiences and traditions related to Yom Kippur. This helps create a sense of community and promotes cultural awareness.
By discussing Yom Kippur and its themes in your early years settings, educators can foster a sense of understanding, respect, and appreciation for Jewish traditions and beliefs. Focusing on universal themes like forgiveness and kindness helps create an inclusive environment that supports the social and emotional development of young children.
