Hanukkah is Hebrew for “dedication.” (It shares a root with the Hebrew word hinuch חִנּוּ , “education.”) On Hanukkah we teach our children how the Maccabees rededicated the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In lighting candles and remembering the Maccabees’ fight for their uniqueness, we think about the ways in which we’re unique — the special light within us.
When we realize our potential, we grow that light. When we accept and respect others, we honor their light. When we stand up for what’s right (like the Maccabees!), we dedicate ourselves to spreading light.
Use the buttons below to quickly access “cheat sheets,” blog posts, and printables to help your family spread light this holiday season.
Light Candles
Lighting candles is the central ritual component of Hanukkah, and it’s a ritual most children love.
Play Dreidel
One of the best-known Hanukkah traditions is playing dreidel (Yiddish for "spinning top," also known as sevivon in Hebrew). The Hebrew letters on the dreidel stand for “a great miracle happened there” (Nes Gadol Haya Sham). In Israel, where the Hanukkah story took place, the letter Shin is replaced by Peh (for Po, “here”).
A legend explains why we play dreidel on Hanukkah: In the time of the Maccabees, when the Greeks didn’t allow Jews to study the Torah, Jews would learn in secret. Whenever the authorities approached, children would quickly hide their books and take out their spinning tops.
Sing Songs
Hanukkah is a time for singing! Use these downloadable song sheets and our playlists to learn a few classics.
Read Stories
Need a Hanukkah story suggestion? Browse away:
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A Time to Hope Holidays Guide
Browse all Hanukkah content
Sharing Hanukkah at School
October 1, 2024