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Best Ways To Celebrate Passover 2013 With Kids In Minnesota

Children are integral to Passover. Children ask four questions during the seder with the youngest typically asking the first question, "Why is this night different from all other nights?" The ceremony reinforces the historical significance of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and escape from slavery. While Passover is an important part of Jewish religious heritage, Christians have also taken to remember this event described in the Old Testament. Here are several ways you can get the kids involved in Passover and the Jewish religion in Minnesota.

The Passover Haggadah: A Guide To The Seder
Minneapolis Jewish Federation
13100 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 200
Minnetonka, MN 55305
(952) 593-2600
www.minneapolis.jewishfederation.org

Hosting a seder can be a daunting experience. This simple Haggadah has the basic information you need to conduct a Passover seder, from setting up a seder plate to asking the four questions. The website offers several other downloadable options as well. The website also has a list of Passover resources and features to help you learn long-time Passover traditions. One can learn about the meaning of the Passover seder plate and innovative Passover rituals. The site has suggestions to keep everyone involved and participating.

Common Roots Café
2558 Lyndale Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(612) 871-2360
www.commonrootscafe.com

Eating out with others during Passover can be tricky if any of members of the group are observing. From breakfast to entrees or from snack to sandwiches, Common Roots Café has a Passover friendly menu including matzo ball soup and selections from the regular menu modified to work for Passover. While the kitchen isn't a completely kosher kitchen, the staff ensures there aren't grains and other banned items during Passover.

Related: Best Resources For Homeschool Families In Minnesota

KidsFit Club
Sabes Jewish Community Center
4330 Cedar Lake Road S.
Minneapolis, MN 55416
(952) 381-3407
www.sabesjcc.org

Kids need strong bodies and enhanced self-esteem. Professional trainers at JCC have programs designed to empower your five through twelve year old to develop a fit and happy life. KidsFit Club cardio, strength building and interactive xergaming equipment is specially designed for their age group. Climb the treadwall, power box with Jackie Chan, develop the speed and agility of an NBA player on the Makoto, improve strength and coordination with the Waterwheel Rowing Machine or play games while you pedal on the Brain Bike.

In addition, the Sabes JCC will be running a special week-long program filled with fun and adventure for kids grades K through six. Find more information online, email Kelleen O'Brion at kobrion@sabesjcc.org or call (952) 381-3374.

  • March 25: Field trip to Wild Woods Water Park
  • March 27: "Holiday Programming" including making Matzah Pizza and other fun activities and JCC programming
  • March 28: Field Trip to Vertical Endeavors
  • March 29: Field Trip to Brunswick Zone
  • April 2: "Holiday Programming" at the JCC

Hadassah Brunch and Style Show
Lost Spur Event Center
2750 Sibley Memorial Highway
Saint Paul, MN 55121
(651) 454-8811
www.mendotaheights.patch.com

Date: May 20

St. Paul Chapter of Hadassah invites moms, kids and teens to its Youth Aliyah event, which features brunch and a multi-generational style show at the new Lost Spur Event Center. Hadassah members ages nine and up will model spring fashions from Gap Kids, The Gap, Banana Republic and The Bibelot. The program will also include installation of chapter officers for 2012-2013.

Related: Cooking Ideas For Kids From A Minnesota Chef

Herzl Camp Kick Off Event
Herzl Camp
4517 Minnetonka Blvd.
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
(952) 927-4002
www.herzlcamp.org

Date: May 5

Passover ends April 5. Then it will be time to start thinking about the summer schedule. The Herzl Camp welcomes you to join its kick off for summer 2013. The staff will be there for you to get to know them and the camp store will be open so you can drop off your camp forms and have a little nosh. Camp Director Anne Hope will host a special question and answer session from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. See program options and prices online as well.

Robin Johnson was born in Annandale, Minn. and graduated from the University of Minnesota where he studied Political Science, Business and Industrial Relations. A writer for Examiner.com, he also consults with a variety of organizations and individuals helping them develop and grow. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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