Making Aliyah as a family can be a life-changing experience, but it’s essential to consider how to prepare your children for the transition. Children often face a mix of excitement and anxiety about moving to a new country, making it crucial to explain the concept of Aliyah in a way they can understand and provide the support they need to thrive in Israel. This article offers a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your children emotionally, academically, and socially for Aliyah.

1. Explaining Aliyah to Your Children

Start with Age-Appropriate Conversations

Different age groups will need varying levels of information to understand the concept of Aliyah and its significance:

• Young Children (Ages 4-8): Explain Aliyah as an exciting journey to a new home where they’ll meet new friends, play in new parks, and go to school with other children. Keep the focus on the positive aspects, like fun activities, new places to explore, and learning about Israel’s unique culture.

• Older Children (Ages 9-12): Talk about Aliyah in terms of family heritage, the adventure of living in Israel, and the opportunity to learn Hebrew. Explain that while the move may feel challenging, it’s also an opportunity to experience life in a new country.

• Teenagers (Ages 13+): Give them a more in-depth explanation, discussing family values, Jewish heritage, and the historical and cultural significance of Aliyah. Allow them to express concerns and opinions openly, and acknowledge that the transition may bring up mixed emotions.

Address Questions and Concerns with Honesty

Children may have questions like:

• “Why are we moving?”

• “Will I be able to see my friends again?”

• “Will I understand my teachers if they speak a different language?”

Answer these questions honestly while reassuring them about the positive aspects of the move. Explain that they’ll have new opportunities in Israel but that maintaining connections with their current friends is still possible, and they can learn Hebrew gradually, with support.

2. Setting the Emotional Stage for Aliyah

Involve Them in the Process

Encourage your children to be part of the planning stages:

• Let Them Help with Packing: Letting them pack their favorite items can create excitement and provide a sense of control.

• Plan a Goodbye Party: Saying goodbye to friends can be emotional, so plan a party where they can enjoy time with loved ones, exchange small mementos, and take photos. It can be a positive send-off that helps with closure.

• Include Them in Discussions: Especially for older children and teenagers, include them in family meetings about the move. This gives them a sense of agency and makes them feel valued.

Acknowledge Their Feelings

Moving can bring up a range of emotions, from excitement to sadness and anxiety. Let your children know it’s okay to feel both excited and nervous. Create a safe space for them to share their thoughts, and reassure them that feeling uncertain is normal.

Address Potential Culture Shock

Explain that Israeli culture might be different from what they’re used to but in a positive way. Talk about Israeli customs, food, and the importance of community. Try to familiarize them with Israeli culture through books, movies, and even Hebrew phrases.

3. Building Social Support Networks in Israel

Connect with Local Communities Before You Move

If possible, reach out to communities or schools in Israel that cater to English-speaking families or families who have recently made Aliyah. Many communities have established networks that offer support and social events for newcomers.

• Social Media Groups: Join groups specifically for Olim (new immigrants) with children. These groups often organize activities and provide tips on helping children adjust.

• Local Synagogues and Community Centers: Many synagogues and centers host events that can help children build friendships in a familiar environment.

Encourage Friendships with Local Children

Once you’re in Israel, help your children make friends by:

• Enrolling Them in Extracurricular Activities: Sports teams, art classes, or youth groups can be great places to make friends and build confidence.

• Organizing Playdates: If your children have schoolmates or local friends, organize playdates so they can start building friendships outside of the classroom.

• Attend Community Events: Festivals, holiday celebrations, and local events can provide excellent opportunities for social interaction and help your children feel part of the larger community.

4. Supporting Your Children’s Education in Israel

Choose a School that Suits Their Needs

Israel offers various educational options, including secular, religious, bilingual, and international schools. Depending on your family’s values and language abilities, select a school where your children will feel comfortable and supported.

• Religious Schools (Mamlachti Dati): These are ideal if you want your children to have a Jewish education with religious studies.

• Secular Schools (Mamlachti): If you prefer a more general education without a religious focus.

• International Schools: These schools often have English-speaking programs, which can be helpful for children who need time to adjust before fully immersing in Hebrew.

Enroll in a Hebrew Language Program

Most Olim children are eligible for Ulpan programs, which are language immersion programs focused on Hebrew. Some tips for a successful experience include:

• Daily Hebrew Practice: Encourage daily practice at home, even if it’s through simple phrases.

• Hebrew Tutoring: Consider extra tutoring sessions if your child needs additional support.

• Hebrew Games and Apps: Language learning apps and games can make learning Hebrew fun and interactive.

Work with the School for a Smooth Transition

Speak to school staff about resources available to Olim. Many schools have designated coordinators or teachers to support new students. Arrange meetings with these staff members before school begins, so they understand your child’s unique needs.

5. Ensuring a Smooth Academic Transition

Prepare for Differences in Curriculum

The Israeli curriculum may differ significantly from what your children are accustomed to. Subjects like math or science may be taught differently, and there may be a stronger emphasis on Hebrew and Jewish studies. Help your children prepare by:

• Exploring Israeli Textbooks or Resources: Familiarize yourself with the Israeli curriculum and find resources online that align with Israeli teaching methods.

• Organizing Extra Academic Support: For subjects where there might be a gap, consider tutoring or online resources.

Encourage Patience and Resilience

Adjusting academically will take time, and children may initially struggle. Encourage them to be patient with themselves and to ask questions in class. Remind them that it’s okay to feel challenged and that they’ll gradually adapt.

6. Helping Your Children Embrace Israeli Culture

Introduce Israeli Culture Before Moving

Start introducing Israeli culture before moving. Explore Israel’s unique foods, like falafel and shakshuka, and celebrate Israeli holidays together as a family.

• Celebrate Israeli Holidays: Engage in activities like baking challah for Shabbat, making hamentaschen for Purim, and lighting candles for Hanukkah.

• Watch Israeli Shows for Kids: Shows like “HaPijamot” or “Galgal Hamazal” can make Israeli culture fun and relatable.

Encourage Outdoor Exploration and Adventure

Israel is known for its outdoor lifestyle, and there’s no better way to help your children adapt than by exploring the natural beauty of the country. Plan family hikes, beach outings, and city explorations to get them familiar with their new surroundings.

7. Tips for Long-Term Success and Adjustment

Set Realistic Expectations

Emphasize to your children that Aliyah is a long-term journey and that it’s okay if things don’t feel comfortable immediately. Adjusting can take time, and there may be ups and downs along the way.

Celebrate Milestones

Acknowledge each milestone in the transition process, no matter how small. Whether it’s completing their first Hebrew test or making their first friend, celebrating these achievements can boost their confidence and reinforce that they’re succeeding.

Stay Connected with Their Friends from Home

Maintaining friendships with their friends back home can provide stability. Set up regular video calls or encourage letter-writing. Knowing that they still have those connections can make the transition smoother.

Offer Continuous Support and Encouragement

Check in regularly with your children about how they’re feeling. Be prepared to provide reassurance and help them work through challenges as they arise. Aliyah is a big change, and your consistent support will be a cornerstone in their adjustment.

Preparing your children for Aliyah requires thoughtful planning, open communication, and proactive steps to ease their transition. By explaining the move in an age-appropriate way, involving them in the process, and setting up support networks, you can help them embrace their new life in Israel. With the right preparation and support, your children can thrive academically, socially, and culturally, setting them up for a successful experience in their new homeland.

For personalized guidance on your family’s Aliyah journey, reach out to Easy Aliyah for resources and support designed to make this life transition as smooth as possible.