Teaching Self-Control Through Pirkei Avot: A Jewish SEL Lesson
Help children explore what it means to be truly strong by learning to manage emotions and control behavior through the wisdom of Pirkei Avot. This Mishnafari sample lesson is based on the saying, “Who is strong? One who overpowers his inclinations” (אֵיזֶהוּ גִּבּוֹר, הַכּוֹבֵשׁ אֶת יִצְרוֹ).
This resource includes:
A chapter from the second book in the Mishnafari series, Rolling and Controlling
A discussion prompt
Hands-on activities
A coloring page
A sing-along song
Designed for children ages 4–8, this resource can be used in Jewish day schools, Hebrew and Sunday schools, at home, or as part of a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum.
These samples are taken from Unit 2, based on the second book in the Mishnafari series, Rolling and Controlling, which focuses on self-control, emotional awareness, and the inner strength needed to make thoughtful choices. Explore the complete unit at www.mishnafari.com for additional stories, lesson plans, games, songs, discussion guides, printable activities, and classroom resources.
Big Wisdom for Little People
- Social Emotional Learning
- Talmud
- K - 3
- After School and Beyond
- Charter/ Independent School
- Early Childhood Education
- Congregational Learning
- Day Schools and Yeshivas
- Family Engagement
Discover more
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Mishnafari provides a Jewish SEL sample lesson on independence, responsibility, and helping others through Pirkei Avot, with stories, songs, discussion prompts, posters, and hands-on classroom activities.
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