After wrapping up our שֶׁהֶחֱיָנוּ (Shehecheyanu) theme and celebrating Purim together, we have shifted into getting ready for Pesach (Passover) at the Enrichment Center!
As we often do with holidays, we began our opening of Pesach by asking children what they remember. We might show them some pictures that have to do with Pesach and have them share what associations they have.
This year, children have already been reflecting on how Pesach might look and feel different than past years, once again, as I’m sure many grown-ups have been thinking about as well. I have been struck, though, by the children’s ability to continue to be excited and joyful about the upcoming holiday, as well as the ideas they have shared about how Pesach 2021 can be awesome in completely new ways than past years:
- Child 1: Usually when it isn’t coronavirus we go for Passover to my cousins house but this year we won’t do that but it’s okay because it means we won’t get sick.
- Child 2: It’s good to stay home. And more matzah brickle (sweet treat made with matzah) for me and my sister.
- Child 3: If you stay at home you can stay more comfy like in your pajamas.
On Pesach, Jewish people might relax and recline more than usual, so I thought that last comment was particularly appropriate. What a great way of reframing what it will be like to stay home instead of travel like we might usually do! We also had fun in Nitzanim (“Buds” for 1st grade children) thinking of ways to hide and search for the afikomen with family and friends over Zoom! I am so grateful for the reminder from these children that Pesach can still be special, even this year.
