In the Jewish calendar, Lag B’Omer is a joyful pause—a day filled with light, connection, and celebration. Traditionally, it commemorates a time when a devastating plague ceased among the students of Rabbi Akiva. Our sages teach that one of the causes of that hardship was a lack of respect among the students for one another. Lag B’Omer, therefore, becomes more than a historical marker—it is a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, empathy, and friendship.
At first glance, this message might feel more suited for older children or adults. But in truth, the foundations of friendship begin much earlier—right in preschool.
In early childhood, friendship doesn’t always look the way it does later in life. It’s not about long conversations or deep emotional exchanges. Instead, it begins with something beautifully simple: parallel play, shared laughter, and small but meaningful moments of connection.
It’s two toddlers sitting side by side, each building with blocks—occasionally handing one to the other.
It’s a child noticing a friend is upset and offering a toy.
It’s learning to wait for a turn, to use words instead of hands, and to begin to understand that others have feelings too.
These small, everyday interactions are the building blocks of something much bigger.
In preschool, children are just beginning to develop the social-emotional skills that will shape their relationships for years to come. Through guided play, teacher support, and consistent routines, they learn how to express their needs and feelings, listen to others, take turns, share, and repair relationships after conflict.
These are not just “nice-to-have” skills—they are essential life skills. And like anything meaningful, they take time, practice, and gentle guidance.
Teachers play a key role in this process. By modeling respectful language, helping children navigate conflicts, and celebrating moments of kindness, educators create an environment where friendships can grow in a safe and supportive way.
At Better World Preschool at Congregation B’nai Israel, these values are not just taught—they are lived each day. Rooted in the idea of chinuch al pi darco—educating each child according to their unique path—we meet children where they are and guide them toward becoming kind, respectful, and connected members of a community.
Through our daily routines, play-based learning, and meaningful interactions, children practice what it means to be a good friend. Whether it’s during a shared moment on the playground, working together on a classroom project, or learning to navigate big feelings with the support of a caring teacher, these experiences help children build the foundation for lifelong relationships.
Lag B’Omer reminds us that respect and kindness are not optional—they are essential to building strong communities. When we bring this message into a preschool setting, it becomes incredibly powerful.
Every time a child says, “You can play with me.”
Every time they help a friend up after a fall.
Every time they learn to use words instead of actions—
they are living the values that Lag B’Omer teaches.
In many ways, preschool is where these lessons take root.
At its core, preschool is not just about learning letters and numbers—it’s about learning how to be part of a community.
Friendships formed in these early years help children feel a sense of belonging. They build confidence, encourage communication, and support emotional growth. Even more importantly, they teach children that they are not alone—that they are part of something bigger.
And while children may not remember every game they played or every project they created, they will carry with them the feeling of being cared for, included, and valued.
The lessons of Lag B’Omer—respect, kindness, and connection—don’t happen in a single day. They are practiced over time, in small moments, again and again.
In preschool, we have the unique opportunity to nurture these values from the very beginning—to guide children not just in learning, but in becoming kind, thoughtful, and connected individuals.
Because long before friendships are defined by words, they are built through actions.
And those actions begin right here at Better World Preschool of Congregation B’nai Israel.
