Shomrei Chayyot "Guardians of the Animals"
The Shomrei Chayyot program for 4th or 5th graders is designed to give students an introduction to the natural world through the eyes of native vertebrates. Ecological concepts such as adaptation, competition, and symbiosis come to life as students learn to see forest, lake, and meadow ecosystems as homes. The program culminates in an "all-species parade" as students transform themselves into the mammals, fish, birds, amphibians and reptiles of the Northeast.
Jewish teachings about the intrinsic worth of each species and the prohibitions of Tzaar Baalei Chayyim, in their development of an appropriate relationship with non-human creatures. Through their Brit Chayyot, a covenant with animals, students pledge to make both personal behavior changes and communal commitments to protect local animal habitats.
Yitziah
In Joy shall you go out, and in peace shall you be led.
The mountains shall burst before you into song,
and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
—Isaiah 55:12
Inspired by yitziat mitzraim—the Exodus from Egypt—yitziah means “going out” and is an invitation to an adventure that is both physical and spiritual. Teens from ages 13 to 15 spend a week hiking the Appalachian trail and paddling the scenic Housatonic River, carrying by backpack everything they need for the round-trip journey. Kids learn wilderness and survival skills, prepare their own meals, live in tents and share responsibility for all aspects of outdoor communal living.
This program is guided by master educators from the Teva Learning Alliance and takes place at Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center. It is appropriate for advanced and beginner hikers who can carry weight on their backs.
Contact us to find out more and register for these great programs today!
