(I think I've spelled Chanukah differently each time it appears on the site!  Oh well.)

 

My brilliant friend Robin shared a wonderful idea with me a couple of years ago.  Each year at Chanukah, she picks one night, invites other families over and rather than exchange presents they give tzedekah or do some sort of tikkun olam.  Ideas include wrapping presents for needy families, preparing meals for shelters, and making cards for sick children. You could even give a performance at a local senior home and sing chanukah songs.

Our children are so fortunate.  One more toy isn't going to make a dent--or, let's be honest, even be meaningful.  Giving toys has become so much a part of Chanukah in America largely because of Christmas.  Using one night to give to others is a beautiful gift we can give our children.

I've also made a point of taking the kids to a local bookstore that is doing a gift drive and they select a book to then donate.  They do not get a book for themselves during that trip (although we will stop for hot chocolate!)

I also saw something wonderful last week, it's called "My Chai Chanukah Calendar."  Years ago, Lynn Goldfarb made one for her grandchildren.  It was such a hit, she manufactured more for sale (usually sold through synagogue gift shops and the like--they are available wholesale in quantities of 12).  Anyway, it's a cloth calendar with pockets (see picture).

You insert slips of paper (that come with the calendar--or you can make up your own) that give ideas for tzedekah projects or even special treats.  Ideas range from "select a book for Mom to read just to you" to "choose five of your toys and give them to a collection for needy children"  and even "babysit for a neighbor or offer to play with a toddler while the mother prepares for the holiday."   My favorite is "make a sibling's bed" and "help Mom clean the basement for 1 hour and then go out for ice cream."  Beginning 18 (chai) days before Chanukah, your children reach into the pockets (one pocket per day) and do the task on the paper.  This way, you fill the Chanukah season with tikkun olam.

If you are interested in the "My Chai Chanukah Calendar" you can reach Lynn at LKG Productions in Maine by calling 207-828-8667.  (By the way, Modern Jewish Mom is not making any money from recommending this product--I just thought it was a great idea and wanted to share with other moms!)

So, have a wonderful and meaningful Chanukah.  I hope it's filled with lots of latkes!

< back to top