Explore our Havdalah programming for you and your little one!
Explanation
Havdalah, “separation” in Hebrew, is Shabbat’s closing ritual when three stars appear on Saturday evening. In a simple multi-sensory ceremony, with blessings over lights, wine or grape juice, and spices, Havdalah is an inspiring way to end Shabbat and start the new week as a family.
Books
Shabbat Light
Written and illustrated by Samara Q. Klein
Ages: 6 Months to 2 Years
With the sunset on Friday night and the appearance of stars on the following evening, with the kindling of Shabbat candles and the extinguishing of a Havdalah candle, this book shows how light marks the start and finish of the Jewish Sabbath.
Havdalah is Coming!
Written by Tracy Newman
Illustrated by Viviana Garofoli
Ages: 6 months to 2 years
A family and their puppy celebrate Havdalah, the weekly ritual celebrating the end of Shabbat and welcoming the new week.
Lights Out Shabbat
Written by Sarene Shulimson
Illustrated by Jeff Ebbeler
Ages: 3 to 4 Years
A young boy visiting his grandparents for Shabbat has a wonderful time despite (or maybe, in part, because of) a rare Georgia snowstorm that causes the power to go out.
Havdalah Sky
Written by Chris Barash
Illustrated by Sarita Rich
Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is a time for cozy family togetherness. But come Saturday evening, Shabbat is over. The family in the story, a young girl joined by her Mama, Ima, Savta, and Saba, gathers together to perform the rituals of Havdalah, marking the end of Shabbat and the return to the work week. Together they show just how cozy even the end of Shabbat can be.
