This week, we focused on the Ten Commandments: Learning Through Art — a creative way to help preschoolers connect with Jewish values through hands-on expression. At Temple Emanuel Beverly Hills Preschool, our Group 4 students explored the Ten Commandments through art, making a timeless Jewish tradition accessible for young learners. This engaging, hands-on activity was part of our early childhood curriculum focused on teaching Jewish values in preschool. By combining creative expression with meaningful conversation, children began to connect the commandments to their everyday experiences — both at home and in the classroom.
🌟 Project: Learning The Ten Commandments
Learning Objective: To help young children begin to understand the meaning and traditions of Shavuot and the Ten Commandments, while encouraging them to reflect on the rules they follow in their own daily environments.
Time Required: 30 minutes for decorating and 30 minutes for group conversation and sharing
Materials Used:
– Pre-cut construction paper shaped like Torah tablets
– Glue and assorted decorative materials
– Markers
– A picture book about the Ten Commandments
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Read Aloud: Teachers began by reading a child-friendly book about the Ten Commandments, introducing each commandment in a way that preschoolers could grasp.
Creative Decorating: Each child received a pair of paper tablets to decorate using colorful materials, glue, and markers. This allowed for sensory engagement and personal expression.
Sharing Their Own Rules: After decorating, children were asked to share rules they know from home or school — like “Be kind” or “Clean up your toys.” Teachers wrote down these heartfelt and thoughtful contributions.
🧒 Student Engagement
The kids were enthusiastic and engaged, especially excited to create something unique. The blend of storytime, art, and meaningful dialogue gave them a fun way to internalize big ideas like respect, honesty, and community.
📚 Teacher’s Reflection
Teachers noted that having a way to quickly document children’s words was essential — whether it was a notebook, sticky notes, or a digital device. Their insights were not only adorable but showed real understanding of their own environments and values.
Introducing the Ten Commandments to young children doesn’t need to be complex. With the right tools, a little creativity, and open-ended questions, preschoolers can begin to understand core values that form the foundation of ethical living — all while having fun.