As a Jewish educator, keeping Jewish learning alive has been a priority. Early in my career, I taught two-year-old children and I wanted to find a way to engage them in learning about Jewish holidays and traditions. I was familiar with secular rhymes and finger plays and saw how they…
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Jewish Education, Writing Children’s Books and the Vilna Gaon
A story of Rabbi Elijah of Vilna influenced my decision to become a Jewish educator and ultimately, a writer. He is often referred to as the Vilna Gaon or Genius of Vilna. Born in 1720, he was studying the Bible and Talmud by the age of 6. Although he grew…
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NEW HANUKKAH SONGS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
I hope you enjoy these original Hanukkah songs. I am pleased to share them with children, parents and teachers as they celebrate and learn about Hanukkah. Hag Sameach, Sylvia Happy Hanukkah (“The Wheels on the Bus”) Menorah candles burning bright, burning bright burning bright, Menorah candles burning bright, HAPPY HANUKKAH!…
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Thoughts on the Pew Report by a Jewish Children’s Author
As a young child, I was charmed by All of a Kind Family, amused by the stories of Chelm and captivated by the Diary of Ann Frank. As a teenager, I was intrigued by Exodus and O Jerusalem. And as an adult, I finally read The Mouse in the Matzah…
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“Sammy Spider’s First Thanukkah”
I have been given permission by the kindergarten class of the Epstein School in Atlanta to share this wonderful new Sammy Spider story and if you click on the title, you can read the whole story, Sammy Spider’s First Thanukkah.
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ORIGINAL SONGS FOR HANUKKAH BY SYLVIA ROUSS JUDAH MACCABEE (Sing to Frere Jacque) Judah Maccabee, Judah Maccabee, Big and strong, big and strong He was so very brave, The temple he did save. Long ago, long ago. HANNUKAH, OH WHAT FUN! (Sing to This Old Man) …
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