Do we celebrate Valentine’s Day at Kehillah?
- Katie Kang
- Feb 2
- 3 min read
As a child who attended public school, I remember thirteen years of celebrating this holiday by creating cards and giving candy. In my younger years, I sent them to everyone in my class because that was required; however, by middle school, I began selecting only my close friends. In high school, the gifts became more significant and meaningful, given to an even tighter circle of friends.
Now, as Valentine’s Day approaches, I reflect on this ritual through the lens of a parent and Jewish educator. I find myself shaking my head as I realize that my decision to limit my cards in middle and high school meant there were classmates who likely received nothing at all. I am saddened to think I could have made a different choice—since a few extra boxes of cards were quite inexpensive back then—and reached out to those who were going to be left out.
With that in mind, I have a charge for our Kehillah community.
The Jewish value of chesed, often translated as “loving kindness,” reminds us to give of ourselves fully with love and compassion—not just to those in our inner circle, but to everyone whenever possible.
This month, I encourage all of us at Kehillah to take a moment with your child to practice chesed. We ask that you do not exchange Valentine’s cards here the Kehillah Early Learning Center.
Instead, please use that time, money, or energy for something that impacts the greater good. Show love and kindness to a person or a cause that needs a reminder that they are valued.
Thank you for the opportunity to join us in spreading true love and kindness.
Ways to Practice Chesed at Home
To help bring the concept of chesed to life, here are a few age-appropriate ways your child can practice loving kindness this week:
For Toddlers (18 Months – 2.5 Years)
The "Smile & Wave" Mission: Take a walk through your neighborhood and practice waving and smiling at neighbors. It teaches children that their presence can bring joy to others.
Pet Kindness: Let your child help "treat" a family pet with a gentle brush or a supervised snack, explaining that we must care for all living things.
The "Helping Hand": Have your toddler help carry one small, non-breakable grocery item to a neighbor’s door or a local food pantry donation bin.
For Preschoolers (3 – 4 Years)
Kindness Rocks: Paint smooth stones with bright colors and leave them at a local park or on a walking trail for others to find and enjoy.
Nature’s Friends: Create simple bird feeders (using pinecones and sunflower butter) to show kindness to the animals in our environment.
The "Hidden Change" Surprise: Tape a few coins to a vending machine or a laundromat washer with a small note that says, "For you! Have a great day."
For Pre-K (4.5 – 5 Years)
Art for Elders: Create drawings or "letters" to be sent to a local senior center. Children this age love explaining their art, which makes the gift even more personal.
The "Box of Joy": Sort through toys or outgrown clothes together. Explain that these items will go to a new friend who needs them, and let your child help pack the box to experience the physical act of giving.
Sidewalk Encouragement: Use sidewalk chalk to write messages like "You are loved" or "Have a happy day" on the walkway leading to your home or a local school.
Recommended Resources
Articles on Judaism & Valentine's Day:
Children's Book Recommendations:
Comments