SignsintheWell-BasedonaTalmudictale

Suggested Family Activities

• שְׁמִירָה
• Share
  • 
  • 
  • 
  • 

• Look through the illustrations accompanying the story, and note the many things Akiva the shepherd knew before he learned to read and write. Then you can remind your children of the many things they know and can do.
• Many Jewish leaders started out as shepherds. You can discuss with your children the tasks involved in shepherding and consider the attributes that characterize a good shepherd. You might ask your child what it is in the essence of the shepherd’s work that helped Rabbi Akiva become a wise teacher and great Jewish leader.
• “One who is shy does not learn” (Avot 2,5): When Akiva saw the signs on the walls of the well and did not know how they were created, he went to the beit midrash (Jewish study hall) for answers. Where do you and your children seek answers to your questions? Are there things that your children know and you don’t? Don’t be shy – ask them!
• You can prepare a clay or Play-Do model of the well with your children.  Using a knife or toothpick, you can make signs in the sides of the well – just like in the story.
• Many young children have heard of Rabbi Akiva and his wife Rachel from stories and songs. You can share other tales of Rabbi Akiva with each other and, if you know the tune, sing together “Rabbi Akiva said: Love your fellow as yourself”.