Behrman House Blog

A few weekends ago, I set off on a mission to visit a Middle Eastern grocery store in Brooklyn. Maybe it was the December chill, maybe it was listening to my friend describe her recent trip to the Negev, but I had a craving for dates—soft, plump, sweet dates. After forty-five minutes of ogling mounds of cured olives, dried figs, raw almonds, and, yes, some juicy dates, I made my purchases and headed home to a feast. You can tell I work at Behrman House because my next two thoughts were: I can’t wait for Tu B’Shevat! And, what teaching techniques can I share with educators? This year, Tu B’Shevat falls on January 22nd. Like me, you may be wondering how you can help students and their families celebrate this Birthday of Trees. Why not plan a Tu B'Shevat Taste Test where participants vote for their favorite Israeli fruits? Or, challenge your students to a Tu B’Shevat Iron Chef showdown? While you’re at it, you can brainstorm ways to help your religious school “Go Green for Tu B’Shevat.” I hope that these ideas energize your Tu B’Shevat festivities. And, if you need a little inspiration, just start dreaming of those soft, plump, and sweet dates. Delish.