Parents know, however, that it's important to include some extra Jewish Passover activities for children so the long evening will go smoothly. The Jewish Passover is the quintessential family holiday, with parts for the kids and the adults built into the Seder. There is really something for everyone. Here are some suggestions:
Shake Up Some Traditional Parts Of The Seder
These parts of the Seder are meant to be led by the kids, or are naturally appealing and engaging for kids. For each on the list, there is a suggestion or two for adding an activity to keep them interested or make it even more fun for them to participate.
The Four Questions: Traditionally sung by the youngest child who is able to, or all kids together. Try adding accompaniment on a CD player, or ask each child to illustrate a picture to represent the meaning of each question. You can also mention that they are not really questions, but four ways in which the Seder night is different, and then ask them to answer (or make sure you do!).
The Ten Plagues: As these are recited, everyone present dips a pinky into their wine and drips a drop onto their plate. Think of adding some props to represent each plague around the table and having the kids figure out which is which. Have the kids color and present a picture for each plague, or come up with a modern plague for each traditional one. Adults should participate, too. Add sound effects, or have the kids make a sound effect to represent each plague.
Singing Songs: During the song Dayenu or other songs, allow the kids to play maracas or little instruments while singing along. Ask them to add something to the song that they feel thankful for. Adults can also participate in this part.
Finding The Afikoman: This is the most fun for kids: finding the hidden matzo and trading it for a prize. Shake things up by having the kids hide it and the adults find it at the second Seder.
Other Passover Activities
 | Understanding the Passover traditions and history, along with the meaning of each of the 15 steps, can make the festival even more memorable. |
 | You have many options when choosing a Passover Haggadah. The varieties available allow the host to have a meaningful Seder that is tailored specifically for his or her guests' interests, allowing for thoughtful discussions, new ideas and new perspectives on the themes of Passover. |
The Jewish Passover story is told as a part of the Passover Seder. You can get all of your guests, including the kids, involved with telling the Passover story and discussing Jewish practices. |
Whether we are aware of it or not, most of us are somewhat familiar with the Jewish holiday of Passover. The story behind the holiday is not only well-known and well-documented (in films and television specials, for instance), but it is also quite an exciting tale. |&&|The Old Testament Tale |&&|Passover begins a few thousand years ago, in the biblical Old Testament times. |
Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is the celebration of freedom for the Jewish people. The story of Passover can be found in the Torah's second book, Exodus. The Jews were slaves of the Pharaoh in Egypt. They were forced to build his monuments and cities, or face death. |
