As it says in the medieval text Deuteronomy Rabbah, “A community is too heavy to carry alone.” What does that idea mean? And how do we, as leaders, parents, teachers, communicate that idea with children? Jewish culture places high value on areyvut, Hebrew for “mutual responsibility.” This means that we look out for each other. We check in on neighbors, visit the sick, clean up our neighborhood, and help pitch in when others need it.
The stories in this list show children the many easy (and fun) ways to be a community helper, no matter one’s age.
Written by Martha Maker, illustrated by Xindi Yan
Recommended for ages 8+
When Emily and her crafting buddies discover an empty lot that used to be a community garden, they want to bring it back to life. They're going to need a little help to make it happen.
Written by Neri Aluma, illustrated by Amit Trainin
Recommended for ages 5 to 6
Hedgehog is digging his winter burrow, and he leaves all the dirt in the middle of the street. Mouse and Rabbit can’t get by anymore, but Hedgehog doesn’t care — he only cares about his burrow. When a rainstorm turns all that dirt into mud and Hedgehog gets stuck, he learns a thing or two about shared responsibility.
Written and illustrated by Nancy Cote
Recommended for ages 3 to 4
Getting ready for Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, can take a lot of preparation. Luckily, little ones often enjoy taking on household tasks (with varying results!). Whether you’re sweeping, cleaning, shopping, or chopping, this sweet book will remind you that small children love to “help a lot” – and including them can be a lovely bonding ritual, before Shabbat or anytime.
Written by Leslie Kimmelman, illustrated by Esther Hernando
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
Mr. Mintz loves taking care of his neighborhood, most of all cooking up delicious dishes for his friends. But when he breaks his foot just before Shavuot, it looks like everyone will have to go without his famous blintzes! Will someone else step up and fill Mr. Mintz’s shoes?
Written by Michal Babay, illustrated by Menahem Halberstadt
Recommended for ages 4 to 5
Although Shabbat is a time for rest, preparing for it can be anything but restful! One disaster leads to another for Leelee and her dog Pickles, but with a lot of spirit (and some help from friends and family) they’re ready to enjoy a sweet Shabbat shalom.
Written by Anna Levine, illustrated by Naama Lahav
Recommended for ages 7 to 8
When a downed tree on the highway to Jerusalem ruins a road full of people's Passover plans, they come together to have a seder right on the road. These new friends share traditions from around the world, bringing to life the opening of the Passover seder: "All those who are hungry, come and eat!"
Written by Alice Blumenthal McGinty, illustrated by Laurel Molk
Recommended for ages 5 to 6
No one is more devoted to his synagogue than Rabbi Ruben. For him, it’s like home. But the synagogue has lots of quirks, and fixing them all would be a full-time job. Rabbi Ruben already has a full-time job – he’s the rabbi! Luckily, members of his congregation see that Rabbi Ruben needs a hand, and they’re more than willing to pitch in. After all, the synagogue is like home to them, too.
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April 16, 2026