Jewish Education Programs in Moldova
Jewish education is a cornerstone of every Jewish community, and in Moldova, it assumes even greater importance. Our educational programs provide children with opportunities to form new friendships, learn about their heritage, and receive nutritious meals that may not be available at home. These programs offer children a foundational start in life, promoting positive development and keeping them away from negative influences. Below are the detailed descriptions of the programs we offer for preschool, elementary, and youth. Click here to download a persentation
Chabad Moldova Early Childhood (Gan) Group
The Gan Chabad Playgroup, established in 2020 by Chabad of Moldova, serves as a vital educational and humanitarian initiative for young Jewish children in Kishinev. Directed by Chaya Zalmanov, who has extensive training in early childhood education from Israel, the playgroup aims to foster Jewish traditions and provide essential support to the community.
Program Overview: The playgroup operates with a dual mission: to instill Jewish values and traditions in young children and to address the humanitarian needs of their families. The program is offered free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all families in the community.
Educational Activities:
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- Jewish Tradition Lessons: Children engage in age-appropriate lessons about Jewish customs and traditions, fostering a strong sense of cultural identity.
- Hebrew Language Instruction: The playgroup provides engaging Hebrew lessons tailored to young learners.
- Creative Activities: Children participate in various creative activities, including arts and crafts, music, and storytelling, which enhance their learning experience.
Humanitarian Support:
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- Nutritious Meals: The playgroup provides hot, kosher meals to children, ensuring they receive proper nutrition that may not be available at home.
- Family Assistance: The program extends its support to the families of the children, offering help with housing, medical care, and other essential needs.
Community Impact: Since its inception, the Gan Chabad Playgroup has made a significant impact on both the children and their families. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, the playgroup helps children develop a strong foundation in their Jewish heritage while also addressing the broader humanitarian needs of the community.
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Moadon After school (Grades 1-4) Director: Natalia Yocheved Milichenko
This new educational initiative, less than a year old, offers courses four times a week for three hours, from Monday to Thursday. These vocational courses are designed for children in grades 1 to 4, conducted after their primary school day.
Program Highlights:
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- Six graduates completed their courses this year.
- 12 children enrolled, though attendance varies.
- Meals provided once during each session, including options such as potato pies, sweet cakes, and fresh fruit in the summer.
- Tea and Cocoa are also available.
For a photo gallery click here
Preschool Sunday Club (Ages 3-5) Director: Natalia Yocheved Milenchenko
The Preschool Sunday Club convenes every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, accommodating 15 children aged 3 to 5 for an enriching Jewish educational experience.
Program Highlights:
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- Jewish Tradition Lessons: Conducted by dedicated educators.
- Morning Prayer and Breakfast: Provision of nutritious meals.
- Hebrew Lessons: Engaging and age-appropriate instruction.
Afternoon Activities:
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- Jewish Music Classes
- Holiday-Themed Crafts
- Plasticine Modeling
Meals and Celebrations:
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- Breakfast and Lunch Provided
- Birthday Celebrations with Special Treats
- Snacks Available
Special Programs:
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- Occasional outings with older groups.
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Sunday School (Ages 6-12) Director: Natalia Yocheved Milichenko
For the past two years, the Sunday School has been held for students aged 6 to 12, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, currently enrolling 15 children. Occasionally, the presence of both younger and older groups results in a shortage of tables.
Program Highlights:
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- Mandatory Lessons on Jewish Traditions
- Sessions on Hebrew, Painting, Theater, Clay Modeling, and Other Subjects
- Organized Trips and Celebrations of Jewish Birthdays
- Parent Collaboration for Events such as Laser Tag or Sculpting Workshops
Rewards Program:
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- A proprietary currency, “bitcoins,” earned for class attendance and good behavior.
- A store opens periodically where children can spend their bitcoins on kosher candy and toys.
Meals:
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- Breakfast and Lunch Provided
- Treats during Classes, including Culinary Master Classes and Birthday Cakes
Click here for photos gallery
https://photos.app.goo.gl/EwHyyGy76HZXLhSr6
Youth Club (Ages 12-18)
Meetings are held every Sunday for youth aged 12 to 18, with 10 regular attendees. Classes, lectures, master classes, and events are conducted through informal education and last for three hours.
Program Highlights:
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- Monthly Outdoor Events: Activities such as horse riding, bowling, or visiting a quest room.
- Treats and Celebrations: Treats at every meeting, Jewish birthday celebrations, and culinary master classes, especially before holidays.
- Educational Activities: Learning the laws of the Torah, traditions, and the history of Jewish holidays through engaging methods, such as creating TikTok videos about Jewish life.
For a photo gallery click here
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jKkZKiRNccqvcWLaA
Gan Israel Camp
The Gan Israel Camp is held every summer and, starting this year, in winter in Chisinau. This day camp, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, caters to children aged 6 to 12, with 35 children in attendance. The camp features activities such as out-of-town picnics, zoo trips, swimming, creative master classes, and kosher cooking. Children learn prayers, Israeli traditions, and mitzvahs. The camp concludes with a concert and an exhibition of their work. We provide three meals a day and ensure safety with a security guard and insurance for every child.
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