Helping Kids/Grandkids Connect with Their Jewish Identity in a Post-October 7 World

With antisemitism and misinformation in the news, and complicated global events impacting our communities, you're probably wondering: "How can we help our kids connect with their Jewish story?" The question feels more important—and more overwhelming—than ever.

We recently explored these challenges in a conversation with Rabbi Amy Wallk, PhD, a respected Jewish educator and congregational leader.

Rabbi Wallk shared actionable ways families can help their children build a meaningful connection to Judaism.

Why Understanding Their Jewish Story Matters More Than Ever

Rabbi Wallk emphasized how recent events, particularly October 7, have profoundly impacted Jewish communities worldwide. She said:

"Many congregants are realizing that if they're connected by fate to other Jews around the world, they want to understand their own identity more deeply."

To nurture this desire in your own family:

• Discuss current events openly, using Jewish values and texts as your guide.
• Start with small but meaningful rituals at home that reinforce Jewish identity.
• Encourage kids to ask questions, helping them navigate misinformation and bias in mainstream media

How to Navigate Difficult Conversations and Complex Events

Many parents feel overwhelmed when confronted with discussions around antisemitism or conflicts involving Israel. Rabbi Wallk takes a practical approach:

"People realize they can't trust traditional media on these topics. I regularly recommend podcasts like Times of Israel Daily Briefing, Call Me Back with Dan Senor, and For Heaven's Sake by Yossi Klein Halevi. These resources help my congregants navigate these complex issues."

Rabbi Wallk specifically recommends these podcasts because they offer clear, reliable Jewish perspectives. Pew Research confirms that trust in traditional media outlets has declined significantly on complex political issues, making alternative sources like these especially valuable.

Here's how you can follow this advice practically:

1. Curate Reliable Sources: Create a list of trusted news outlets and podcasts for your family (or use Rabbi Wallk's recommendations above). Regularly discuss a current topic together, guiding your kids through recognizing bias and misinformation.
2. Weekly Conversations: Schedule weekly conversations where you provide your kids with articles or videos from trustworthy Jewish sources, then openly discuss them.

Sample Conversation Starters:

• "What surprised you most about this article or podcast?"
• "Is there a Jewish perspective that is significantly different from the perspectives we are hearing in the mainstream news? What is it? Do you identify with it?"

Teaching Jewish Heritage Through the Lens of Everyday Life

According to Rabbi Wallk, integrating Judaism naturally into daily routines—not just in times of crisis—is key to building lasting identity. She uses a helpful analogy of "Parshat HaShavua glasses," meaning you view everyday experiences through the lens of the weekly Torah portion (Parshat HaShavua).

Try this at home by:

• Weekly Torah Conversations: Pick one idea from the weekly Torah portion, then discuss how that message relates to your child's experiences at school or home.
• Practical Rituals: Small rituals make a big difference. Lighting candles together, sharing a blessing at mealtime, or reading a quick Jewish bedtime story can seamlessly weave Jewish identity into your everyday life.

Creating Inclusive and Joyful Jewish Experiences

Rabbi Wallk reminds us to balance the seriousness of responding to challenges with joyful Jewish living:

"October 7th is always there, but it can't define our Judaism. Judaism isn't just about responding to hate—it's about living a beautiful, joyful life."

To create this balance:

• Host an Intergenerational Shabbat: Invite grandparents, friends, and extended family. Allow everyone, including kids, to share stories about their own Jewish experiences.
• Attend Joyful Cultural Events: Get your family involved in local Jewish celebrations, music nights, or even virtual cultural workshops you can join right from home. Rabbi Wallk shared how impactful it was when her community hosted guest cantors who brought uplifting music to Shabbat services.

Experiential Jewish Learning Opportunities

Rabbi Wallk also sees a renewed passion for hands-on experiences. Reflecting on conversations with her congregants, she mentions people feeling compelled to visit Israel as a way to deepen their understanding.

Research backs this up, too. According to the Birthright Israel Foundation, 84% of participants reported their trip significantly strengthened their connection to Jewish identity and culture.

Consider these experiential learning ideas:

• Travel Opportunities: Explore travel programs or even virtual tours of important Jewish historical sites.
  
• Interactive Museum Visits: Visit Jewish heritage museums or Holocaust museums with guided, age-appropriate tours. Discuss the visit afterward, giving kids space to express questions and feelings.

Building Confidence and Identity Through Jewish Knowledge

Rabbi Wallk highlighted her community's increased interest in historical and Zionist education following the events of October 7th. Exploring a variety of resources gives you a fuller picture of different perspectives, and can help your family build confidence in their Jewish identity.

She emphasizes:

"We're bringing authors and educators who provide historical context because that background is critical right now."

Here are practical resources Rabbi Wallk recommends:

• Books: "Ghosts of a Holy War" by Yardena Schwartz offers nuanced and accessible historical context on Israel and the Middle East.
• Podcasts: "Israel Story," "Unpacking Israeli History," and "For Heaven's Sake."
• Local classes: Check your synagogue, JCC, or, of course, Melton, for classes specifically on modern Jewish history or Zionism.

The Essential Role of Community in Jewish Learning

Rabbi Wallk underscores community as foundational:

"In difficult moments, bringing people together is critical. But community gatherings shouldn't only respond to crises—they should also reinforce joy and belonging."

Here's how to nurture that sense of community:

• Regular Community Gatherings: Plan or attend regular Jewish community events. Even simple gatherings like Havdalah or Sunday brunches help you build lasting connections through shared experiences and strengthen your sense of belonging.
• Intergenerational Conversations: Let kids lead interviews with grandparents or older community members, recording their Jewish stories. These conversations can turn into priceless family keepsakes, helping everyone in the family feel a deeper connection to their heritage.

Using Jewish Education to Foster a Meaningful Life

Rabbi Wallk encourages us to think of Jewish education as more than a reaction to external threats. She believes deeply in using Judaism as a life-enriching tool:

"Judaism is about intention and meaning, not just crisis-response. We must balance the 'oys' and 'joys' of our heritage."

To enrich your family's experience:

• Explore Deeper Jewish Texts: Consider Melton's courses, Mussar teachings—which focus on personal ethical growth—or Hassidic stories that inspire through spiritual lessons.
• Family Discussions: Hold intentional conversations about Jewish practices. Ask deeper questions like, "Why does Shabbat matter to our family?" or "What does kashrut symbolize for us personally?"

Empowering Your Family to Own Your Jewish Story

We hope Rabbi Wallk's insights empower you to help your family or students confidently embrace their Jewish heritage. The best way forward is by taking thoughtful, intentional action.

To start applying these ideas, here's a clear next step: Schedule one meaningful family conversation this week focused on your Jewish story.

Here are a few questions to help get your conversation started:

• What Jewish traditions mean the most to our family, and why?
• How can we better integrate joyful Jewish practices into our everyday routine?
• How do current events affect how we see our Jewish identity?

We invite you to explore Melton's offerings for classes and resources designed specifically for families like yours.

Whether through our classes, resources, or community connections, we're here to support you in nurturing a strong, joyful, and confident Jewish identity for the next generation.