A High School classroom is an excellent space for growth-oriented discussion, even during secular studies. Bashy, a teacher of ninth-grade English Language Arts, uses literary pieces on self-growth topics during Sefira.
She sometimes brings in children’s books, too. The students love the lighter atmosphere that picture books bring.
The lesson is structured just like all other Literature classes, and the theme, rhyme structure, imagery, etc. spark quality literary discussion.
Books that can be purchased at national bookstores
The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss
A typical Dr. Seuss-style book about a community of Sneetches who are divided into two groups: those with stars on their bellies and those without. Through the storyline, the Sneetches realize that their external differences do not define their worth, leading to a conclusion about equality and friendship.
Brings home the meaninglessness of peer pressure and how people tend to perpetuate such an environment.
A book about a group of colored circles who stand up to Red, a powerful color that shames and excludes Blue. Through a simple narrative and vibrant illustrations, the book conveys a message about the importance of individuality, friendship, and the impact that one voice can have in creating more inclusivity.
Well-known book that shows a picture and keeps zooming out further and further to add perspective. The children in the first picture are really on the cover of a magazine, in an ad on a bus which is pictured on a tiny postage stamp, and so on.
Can be used to highlight how limited our view of a situation can be. Can be used to encourage taking a wider perspective, or to be dan l’kaf zechus.
Although this book has no words, there is quality to the experience of sharing this book with your class.
A hilarious, almost nonsensical book about a boy who gets his kite trapped in a tree and keeps throwing items at the tree, and they all get stuck too. Highlights how we sometimes react to challenging situations in ways that either don’t solve them or even make them worse.
As we continue the K’mayim Sefira Challenge, we turn to the moments that often matter most—the small, unplanned interactions outside the classroom. Week 4:On A Personal Level The Challenge: Find a way to make a comment or engage in a short conversation with your student in school, outside of class time. This week’s challenge is to find a moment to connect with each of your K’mayim students outside of class time. A brief comment or a short conversation in the hallway, on the way up from davening, or during a transition in the day. It can be as simple as: “How’s your sister liking seminary?” “I see your seat was changed—nice having you up front.” “So, what’s your part in the Leil Iyun?” These moments don’t need to be long or formal. Just genuine. As you do this, keep in mind: The greatest opportunities for connection
As we continue the K’mayim Sefira Challenge, we return to a place that quietly shapes everything—our פנימיות. Week 2:Daven for Her The Challenge Choose one student to focus on this week. Learn her full name, and say an extra tefilla or a perek of Tehillim for her each day. It can be just a small moment, but one filled with awareness and care. This week’s challenge is to take a moment each day to daven for each of your K’mayim students. It can be a quiet perek of Tehillim, a mention in Shemoneh Esrei, or a simple bakasha from the heart. This is something to do consistently throughout the week—no matter how many times you teach. As you do this, keep in mind: A student may feel like a challenge, or even just “average” in the classroom—but she is someone’s whole world. A child deeply loved, with a
End-of-year celebrations in early childhood should feel joyful, simple, and meaningful—for both children and teachers. You don’t need anything overproduced to make it memorable; it’s the milestone itself that makes it special. Here are some ideas that strike that balance: “Little Steps, Big Growth” Ceremony Keep it short and sweet.Each child walks across a small “stage,” and you share one personal sentence about them—a strength, a moment of growth, or something that makes them unique. They receive a certificate, and a soft background song can add a special touch. Themed Performance (Short + Sweet) Choose 2–3 songs with simple motions. Themes that work well: Keep it under 10 minutes—parents appreciate it, and children stay engaged. Individual “Spotlight Moments” Instead of a full performance, give each child a moment to shine.Call them up and say something like:“This is ___, he loves building and is always ready to help his
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As we continue the K’mayim Sefira Challenge, we turn to the moments that often matter most—the small, unplanned interactions outside the classroom. Week 4:On A
As we continue the K’mayim Sefira Challenge, we return to a place that quietly shapes everything—our פנימיות. Week 2:Daven for Her The Challenge Choose
End-of-year celebrations in early childhood should feel joyful, simple, and meaningful—for both children and teachers. You don’t need anything overproduced to make it memorable; it’s
The K’mayim Sefira Challenge is a 4-week journey designed for teachers across all grades. Each week, you’ll take on one focused, practical challenge—small, intentional shifts
At this time we offer classroom setup materials only for General Studies. You can also browse themed bulletin boards by clicking General Studies in the menu.
