Our approach to educating our students about Pesach goes beyond conventional methods, immersing them in a hands-on experience that brings the story to life. In each classroom, sensory bins transformed into scenes from the story. Children explored the Nile River filled with frogs, rocks, and bottles, experiencing the 10 Makkot firsthand. Kinetic sand became the medium for building pyramids, allowing young minds to grasp the monumental task faced by the Jews in Egypt. Grape juice sensory activities heightened their senses, connecting them to the rituals of the Seder.
Dramatic play took on a meaningful role as well, with matzah bakeries allowing children to participate in the tradition of making matzah. Through a blend of water, flour, and playdough, they learned about the haste with which the Jews fled Egypt. Furthermore, each class crafted their own Hagaddah, delving into the story of Pesach and the steps of the Seder, while also creating symbolic items such as seder plates, kiddush cups, and afikoman bags.
The pinnacle of our learning journey was our model Seder, a culmination of weeks of exploration and discovery. Grandparents and parents joined us as we reenacted the steps of the Seder, sang the Ma Nishtana, and joyfully danced, expressing our hope for the next year's celebration to take place in Jerusalem.