Learn the words in Hebrew to figure out the joke below:

חֲכָמִים wise

שׁוֹאֵל ask

שְׁאֵלוֹת questions

מַצְחִיקוֹת funny

שׁוֹנִים different

Solution

Simple Child: “Why do we have so many different kids at the Seder?”

Wise Child: “Because if we only had wise kids, who would ask the funny questions?”

Teacher Insight:

Including Everyone: The Four Children in the Haggadah

As a teacher, I’ve always seen Passover as more than just a holiday—it’s a lesson in storytelling, learning and, most importantly, inclusion. One of the most famous parts of the Haggadah is the passage about the Four Children: the Wise, the Wicked, the Simple, and the One Who Does Not Know How to Ask. Each child represents a different way of engaging with tradition, and together, they remind us that there is room for everyone at the Seder table.

The Wise Child: Seeking Understanding

The Wise Child asks deep questions, eager to learn and understand the details of Passover. This child reminds us of the importance of knowledge and curiosity. But wisdom should never be a barrier to inclusion. While the Wise Child seeks intellectual depth, they must also recognize that not everyone learns in the same way.

The “Wicked” Child: A Different Perspective

The so-called Wicked Child asks, “What does this service mean to you?” distancing him or herself from the group. But is this child truly wicked, or are they just questioning in their own way? As an educator, I see this child as the critical thinker, the one who challenges tradition and seeks to understand its relevance. Instead of pushing them away, we should embrace their questioning. Their skepticism might just lead to the most meaningful discussions.

The Simple Child: Embracing the Basics

The Simple Child asks, “What is this?”—a straightforward and honest inquiry. This child reminds us that not everyone approaches tradition with deep knowledge, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the simplest questions open the door to the most profound conversations.

The Child Who Does Not Know How to Ask: Encouraging Participation

Finally, we have the child who doesn’t ask at all. Perhaps they feel overwhelmed, shy, or uncertain about how they fit into the story. This is where inclusion matters most. Just as a good teacher draws out the quiet student, a welcoming Seder finds ways to engage the silent guest. Whether through storytelling or laughter, we must find ways to invite everyone into the experience.

Passover as a Celebration of Inclusion

The Four Children remind us that people engage with tradition in different ways. Some are eager learners, some are skeptics, some need things explained simply, and some need a little encouragement to participate. The beauty of the Seder is that it has a place for all of them—and for all of us.

Chag Sameach!

Maya Yehezkel is a Hebrew teacher at Yeshivat Noam middle school. For private tutoring, all levels, email [email protected].