I am delighted to announce the release of Shoresh Pop, a unique Hebrew language game that launched this month. Created especially for students in grades 1-6 to learn shorashim (Hebrew root words), Shoresh Pop provides an immersive and enjoyable way to master essential vocabulary while strengthening reading skills.
Shoresh Pop includes three decks of cards and four fidget mats, enabling play for up to four participants. Each deck targets a different skill level:
Deck 1: Players read the Hebrew card and find the corresponding shoresh on their fidget mat.
Deck 2: Players locate the Hebrew root corresponding to an English word on their card.
Deck 3: Players read a Hebrew verb and locate its matching root on the fidget mat.
The first player to press down all the bubbles on their mat wins. This tactile, multisensory experience is ideal for classroom use in reading rotations, independent play, and learning centers where students needing extra support can strengthen their understanding of shorashim, fluency and nekudot (vowels). Teachers can also use Shoresh Pop with advanced learners, who can progress independently through Decks 2 and 3.
The game was developed over nine months with invaluable input from the Lower School faculty at the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy, who helped select the 50 core words and determine key content for each grade level. Shoresh Pop was inspired by “Word Pop,” a popular fidget game that has captivated students in various classrooms. Observing students’ enthusiasm for Word Pop inspired me to create a Hebrew version designed to complement Hebrew curricula in day schools.
The Hebrew and Tanach faculty from Kushner Academy’s Middle and High schools were instrumental in refining the game, offering critical feedback and assisting with Hebrew translations. After piloting Word Pop with sixth graders, I saw how the combination of collaborative play, friendly competition and individual challenge ignited a new enthusiasm for learning.
Since its September release, the response to Shoresh Pop has been overwhelmingly positive. We have nearly sold out of presale orders and are preparing for a second production run of 10,000 games. For teachers and parents alike, this game offers a high-quality resource to support Hebrew learning in an interactive and enjoyable way. Shoresh Pop provides an alternative to homemade games, giving Judaic studies educators and families a reliable, durable and educational game for classroom and home use—even on Shabbat!
I am thrilled to present a game that blends the joy of Hebrew learning with purposeful engagement. This game provides students with an enriching experience that supports their growth and passion for the language. Our team couldn’t be prouder to introduce a game that captures the fun and beauty of Hebrew learning and supports our students in such a meaningful way.
Perfect for home or classroom use, Shoresh Pop is crafted to build confidence, spark curiosity, and strengthen reading skills. Visit our website today to learn more and order Shoresh Pop, the Hebrew reading game that brings language learning to life. Go to www.thefidgetgame.com and order Shoresh Pop. Use the code Shalom15 for 15% off.
Debbie Finkelstein is dean of faculty and instruction at the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School.
