Sharing Easter and Passover traditions

Holidays are a beautiful way to share the world with your baby.

Learning Stages

By Candace Lindemann

Children's Author & Education Consultant

Candace Lindemann is a published children’s writer and educational consultant. She holds a B.A. from Yale University and an M.Ed. from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. You can also find Candace blogging at http://NaturallyEducational.com. While Candace’s degrees prepared her for a career in education, she’s found that the best preparation for parenting is on-the-job training.

Holidays are a beautiful way to share the world with your baby.  For those of the Christian and Jewish faith, Easter and Passover traditions play an important role in early spring.  Although babies and toddlers may not be ready to understand the deeper spiritual meaning of the days, they will enjoy being included in your preparations.

A singer of tales

As you move through your day this week, sing some of the songs that say Passover or Easter to you.  Read books and stories that describe the holiday celebrations or symbolically discuss their meaning.

Religious observation

If you will attend services with your baby for the first time, ask about accommodations for babies and small children.  Most places of worship are very welcoming of young children, especially during these services.  By asking, though, you will put your mind at ease and maybe get some ideas for distraction techniques, find the location of the play room, and learn the best places to sit in case you need to make a quick exit.

Feed the soul

Most holiday celebrations involve specific foods (Easter, Passover). Take your baby along on the shopping trip so he can see and smell the foods you select.  He can help you bag and put the items on the counter for purchase. When you get home, include your toddler in your cooking as well, following safety precautions, of course. Even toddlers can help stir and they will enjoy the smells and tastes as you work.  And your toddler will take a special pride in helping you set the table, placing napkins and spoons in their proper places.

Crafts

Try making some age-appropriate Passover or Easter crafts.  Use as a centerpiece and your toddler will enjoy telling the family, "I made that!"