If you’re looking for a fun and meaningful way of celebrating Tu-Bishvat with kids, look no further! Tu-Bishvat is the perfect opportunity to teach your children about the environment and the importance of taking care of our planet. Here are some ideas on how to make the most of this special day including this popular Israeli song.
Why Celebrate Tu-Bishvat?
The holiday of Tu-Bishvat is a Jewish holiday that falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat. Many know it as the Jewish “New Year for Trees.” People have been celebrating Tu-Bishvat since biblical times. The Mishnah and Talmud mention the holiday as one of the Rosh HaShanas, one of the new-year dates celebrated throughout the Hebrew calendar.
It marks the date when trees in Israel are traditionally harvested for their fruit. It also starts the count towards the three years of Orlah plus a fourth of Neta Revai, after which everyone can eat the fruit.
Outside of Israel, people celebrate Tu-Bishvat with kids as an eco-friendly holiday as the rules of Orlah do not apply in the diaspora. It is a time to reflect on our relationship with nature and the environment and to take action to protect our planet.
A New Meaning for Tu-Bishvat
Tu Bishvat is a celebration of nature and the bounty that we receive from the earth. On this holiday, we give thanks for the fruits and nuts that sustain us, and we reaffirm our commitment to taking care of our planet.
In addition to its environmental significance, Tu-Bishvat also has spiritual meaning. The Talmud tells us that on Tu-Bishvat, “the world was created.” This means that everything – including ourselves – comes from God’s infinite love and mercy. Just as the earh nourishes the trees, we too are nourished by God’s love. By celebrating Tu-Bishvat, we connect to this deep wellspring of life-giving energy.
How to Celebrate Tu-Bishvat with Your Kids?
One of the best ways to celebrate Tu-Bishvat with your kids is to do some fun nature-related activities together. Here are some ideas to start your celebratory preparations:
Plant the Etz (tree)
A key way for celebrating Tu-Bushvat with Kids is teaching them about the importance of trees and their role in the environment. Plus, teach them the Hebrew word for tree ‘Etz’, spelled with Ayin followed by a final Tzadi.
Make some arts and crafts
There are plenty of Tu-Bishvat themed arts and crafts projects that your kids will love. From making recycled paper to creating nature-themed paintings, there are plenty of ways to get creative with this holiday.
Go on a nature hike
Spend time outdoors together and explore the natural world around you. This is a great way to teach your kids about the importance of taking care of our planet.
A Tu-Bishvat Seder
Did you know that Passover is not the only holiday with its own Seder, Tu-Bishvat has one too. There are traditional blessings that go with the special fruit of the season. Throwing a kid-friendly Seder is the perfect way for celebrating Tu-Bushvat with Kids.
Fruits and nuts
These are two traditional symbols of Tu-Bishvat, so it’s only fitting that they should be part of your Seder. Enjoy one (or all) of the Seven Species: figs, pomegranates, dates, olives and grapes. Wheat and barley are the other two if you must know.
Honey
What would a Jewish holiday be without honey? Enjoy this sweet treat on its own or use it as an ingredient in recipes like honey cake or honeyed fruits.
Wine (for the adults)
Wine is another traditional symbol of Tu-Bishvat, so why not enjoy it as part of your celebrations? Whether you prefer red or white, kosher or non-kosher, there’s a wine out there that everyone can enjoy. cheers!
