As the education coordinator of Sunday School in Izmir, I am delighted to share with you all the amazing activities and accomplishments we have had last year. Our main goal has been to connect families in the community, foster a strong Jewish identity, and create lasting relationships within the Jewish community.
Throughout the year, we organized various events and programs that catered to different age groups. For our younger children aged 1-5, we held regular playgroups where they could learn and socialize. We hosted multiple playgroups each week, allowing us to engage with approximately 75 children in this age range. During these playgroups, we incorporated Jewish education, focusing on Jewish holidays, symbols, and values. We celebrated Hanukkah at Beth Israel Synagogue (Karatas) with almost 50 children and their parents. It was heartwarming to see the children's enthusiasm and engagement during these activities.
In addition to the playgroups, we also continued Sunday School programming for children aged 6-10. This program aimed to provide a more structured Jewish education experience. We had volunteer teachers who worked tirelessly to teach the children about Jewish history, holidays, and traditions.
Apart from educational activities, we also focused on creating a sense of community and togetherness. We organized seven Shabbat Dinners, where families could come together, enjoy a meal, and experience traditional Shabbat rituals. These dinners were attended by children of various age groups, along with their parents. The feedback received from these evenings was overwhelmingly positive, and many families experienced Shabbat celebrations for the first time.
We believe it is crucial to support parents in their journey of raising Jewish children. To achieve this, we organized seminars and workshops and these sessions were led by professionals, such as psychologists and nurses, providing valuable information and guidance to parents.
Beyond these activities, we also engaged with young adults aged 25-35. We formed a group, connecting them to the community and organizing events specifically tailored to their interests. From Sabbath dinners to Jewish heritage tours, we created opportunities for this age group to come together, form connections, and explore their Jewish identity further.
It has been an eventful year for Sunday School in Izmir, and we are grateful for the support from our parents and the Izmir Jewish Community Foundation. Together, we have created a vibrant and inclusive community where families can feel connected and supported.
As we look forward to the next academic year, we hope to expand our programs even further and continue making a positive impact on the lives of Jewish families in Izmir. Follow us on Instagram @sundayschoolizmir to stay updated on our upcoming events and activities.
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