At the “Beit Zindlicht” Children’s Educational Center, the leading early childhood institution of the Dnipro Jewish Community, the weekly theme was dedicated to good deeds, caring for one’s neighbor, and being attentive to those in need of support. Throughout the week, the children were introduced to stories about good deeds, discussed why it is so important to help others, learned to be kind to one another, respect their elders, and notice those who especially need care and warmth.
The sessions were aimed not only at explaining these values but also at putting them into practice. Together with their teachers, the children prepared cards and drawings for the residents of the “Beit Baruch” Home for the Elderly, a unique social institution of the Dnipro Jewish Community, learned songs and dances, and at home, together with their parents, prepared food gifts and treats for them. Thus, the weekly theme gradually transitioned from discussion and learning into concrete action.
The culmination of the entire program was a trip by the older group to Beit Baruch. The children delivered the collected gifts, presented the cards and drawings, and also prepared a small concert, performing songs and dances for the Home’s residents. The meeting took place in a very warm atmosphere and brought joy both to the children and to the elderly, who sincerely thanked the little ones for their attention and care.
“It is very important to us that from an early age, children understand the meaning of good deeds not only through words and lessons but also through their own experience,” noted kindergarten educator Naomi Chaya Yavorska. “It is very important that from a young age, children learn to help others, show respect, compassion, and kindness, feeling themselves part of our united and cohesive Dnipro Jewish Community under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.”
