At the “Beit Tzindlicht” children’s educational center—a leading preschool institution of the Jewish Community of Dnipro—a children’s farbrengen was held in honor of 18 Elul, a special date on the Jewish calendar marking the birthdays of two great spiritual leaders: the founder of Chassidus, the Baal Shem Tov, and the founder of the Chabad movement, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. In a format accessible to preschoolers, the educators introduced the children to the significance of this day, combining the story of the holiday with the joyful atmosphere of a true farbrengen.
During the gathering, the children listened to a traditional Chassidic niggun, danced to its melody with tambourines, recited pesukim together, and joyfully performed the mitzvah of tzedakah by placing coins into the charity box. Through such simple and understandable actions, the children were able to feel the special atmosphere of this day and connect with traditions that have united the Jewish people for many generations.
“We strive to ensure that even the youngest children not only learn about Jewish holidays and significant dates but also experience them together, feeling their joy and spiritual meaning,” said preschool teacher Malka Averbukh. “This is how a child’s living connection to Jewish tradition is formed—a love for performing mitzvos and a sense of belonging to their people. And for the opportunity to raise children in such an atmosphere, we sincerely thank the united and cohesive Jewish Community of Dnipro under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.”
