Learning about Shabbat

Date: 1st Jul 2026 @ 10:07pm

Reception have been learning about Judaism so it was wonderful to welcome Mrs Pink into our classroom to teach us about Shabbat. First, Mrs Pink a Jewish lady told the children about the story of Creation and how the seventh day is the day of rest. She told us that Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest and celebration. It begins on a Friday before sunset and ends on Saturday evening after nightfall. It is a time where there is no work so that they can spend time together as a family with no distractions. She involved the children with by laying a white table cloth on the table, placing flowers in the middle and putting two candlesticks and a smaller candle that would be lit by a little girl. Also two loaves of Challah bread, a ceremonial cup for Havdalah and Siddur the Jewish book of prayers. Children also put coins into the charity box which families would have and donate to a local cause. The children enjoyed a small drink of grape juice and a slice of Challah bread. The end of Shabbat is ushered out with another cup of wine (grape juice was actually used) with a lit Havdalah candle, blessings are given and special fragrant spices are smelt which helps to revive the soul after feeling the loss of the special gift of Shabbat. Children smelt these fragrant spices. The children loved the whole experience!