Tikkun olam is the Jewish concept of our responsibility to repair the world. Human beings are considered to be shomrei adamah, guardians of the earth. Tikkun Olam is the concept that the world is broken and that it is our duty to repair it. This brokenness can be interpreted in many ways. Many people think of tikkun olam as social justice. But tikkun olam can be anything that makes the world a better place–environmentalism, social justice, tzedakah, mitzvot, helping others, and KINDNESS.
Very importantly, tikkun olam is not a concept or action that only adults can take. Kids can perform tikkun olam and make meaningful differences in our world. This is a huge opportunity to empower them to act with kindness and intention, making the world a better place with their actions.
Learning Goals
My learning goals for when I teach this value are for children to realize that there are (many) problems in our world and that they, even though they are children, have the power and opportunity to make positive change to help the world. It is also helpful to emphasize how much they can make a difference just by being kind (to other people, to animals, and to the world).
Common Tikkun Olam Symbols
When creating tikkun olam activities, you might find the following symbols useful in explaining and exploring the concept:
- Tzedakah boxes: represents the mitzvah of tzedakah and giving to charity
- Earth: represents repairing the world as well as environmental concerns
- Hearts: can represent love and kindness
Explore Our Tikkun Olam Activities
Tikkun Olam Craft: YOU Can Save the World Poster
Tikkun Olam Ocean Clean Up Sensory Bin
Review Tikkun Olam with a Tikkun Olam Bingo Game
Tikkun Olam Lesson Plan: Yes, Kids Can Save the World!
Chesed Hats with A Hat for Mrs. Goldman
A Hat for Mrs. Goldman Sensory Bin
Mitzvah Meal Bags for the Homeless
One Mitzvah: A Short Tzedakah and Mitzvah Review Lesson Plan
Planting and Harvest Sensory Bin
Find and Give Tzedakah Sensory Bin
Hachnasat Orchim Welcome Signs
Enhance Your Household With Our Tikkun Olam Recommended Books
Recommended Tikkun Olam Book List
If you have not yet signed up to receive free monthly Jewish books from the PJ Library program, now is the time to start! These books will open up worlds of learning, conversation, engagement, and fun with your whole family!
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