Tu B’Shevat at Tamim Academy NYC K-1 was a joyful and immersive learning experience. The children had prepared for the day with a science unit on plants with each child planting their own plant, watering them, and monitoring their growth. On the day of Tu B’Shevat, everyone dressed in green, brown and pink like the shkediya, almond tree, that begins to bloom in Israel at this time. Each student brought a fruit to class and upon arrival, they placed it on display near pictures of the matching respective tree. It created a beautiful exhibit of fruits and trees and really brought the concept of growth to life.

The children enjoyed a delightful breakfast of yogurt parfaits with pomegranate, grapes and date honey—three of the special shivat haminim, fruits of Israel. They continued to taste the shivat haminim during lunch with barley, grapes, figs and dates. Following their delicious meal, everyone delved into a meaningful conversation about the symbolism of trees in their lives. Drawing connections between strong roots and faith, the trunk and the Torah, and fruits as mitzvot and kind deeds, the children expressed their understanding through creative drawings on paper fruits, adorning the class symbolic tree. The day continued with an engaging mosaic project with the students using mosaic tile shapes, to create unique images of trees and fruits.

Finally, with much excitement everyone peeled and cut their fruits which they had contributed, sharing them with each other, enjoying the different shapes, flavors and colors. They also enjoyed the opportunity of trying new fruits and with the shehechiyanu bracha.

Tu B’Shevat at Tamim Academy NYC wasn’t just a celebration—it was an enriching experience. From exploring the significance of plants and trees to experiencing and appreciating a variety of fruits, the young learners reveled in the spirit of Tu B’Shevat with curiosity and enthusiasm!