Conversation Guide for Families

Conversation Guide for Families 

Children should be ages 10+ 

How to Begin the Conversation

Talking about Israel, Jewish identity, and history with your children can be meaningful and thought-provoking. Especially in the current times when antisemitism is rising globally, it is important that older children who are in higher grades, going into high school or universities are equipped with the appropriate knowledge and information as they go out into the world from their safe home environment. This Timeline presents important themes that may inspire questions and reflections. 

Here’s a guide to help you open the discussion in an engaging and thoughtful way.

Setting the Tone

• Encourage open ended conversation rather than a lecture.

• Let your child take the lead in asking questions, guiding the discussion based on their interests.

Possible Opening Questions

• "What do you know about Israel? What words or images come to mind when you think of it?"

• "Why do you think Israel is important to Jewish people around the world?"

• "Have you ever thought about how our family’s history connects to Israel?"

• "Did anything in the Timeline surprise you? Why?"

• "What does it mean to have a homeland? How do you think that impacts Jewish identity today?"

Themes to Explore

• Jewish History & Continuity: "The Timeline talks about how Jews have been connected to the land of Israel for thousands of years. Why do you think that connection is still strong today?"

• Challenges & Resilience: "Throughout history, Jewish communities have faced struggles but have always found ways to persevere. How do you think that shapes Jewish identity today?"

• Community & Responsibility: "What role do you think we, as individuals, have in supporting Jewish communities in Israel and around the world?"

• Personal Connection: "How do you personally feel connected to Israel? What could help strengthen that connection?"

Further Exploration

• Look up a historical event from the TimLine and discuss its impact today.

• Watch a documentary or read an article together about modern Israeli life and challenges.

• Talk about ways to stay connected, such as visiting Israel, supporting organizations, volunteering or learning Hebrew.

Final Thought

This conversation is not about having all the answers but about exploring questions together. Encourage curiosity, embrace complexity, and create a space where your child feels empowered to think critically and engage with their Jewish identity in a meaningful way considering the threat Israel faces in today's reality.