5 Easy & Fun Shabbat Rituals for Kids — Because Shabbat Belongs to Every Jewish Family

Why Shabbat Matters (Even in a Busy Life)

Shabbat is more than just a tradition—it’s a weekly reset. It gives us a chance to slow down, be present, and really connect with each other. In a world that moves fast, Shabbat reminds us to pause, breathe, and enjoy the people and moments that matter most. For families, it’s a beautiful way to create calm, connection, and joy—together.

And it’s no coincidence that this day of rest was built into our story from the very beginning. The idea that we work all week and then pause—wasn’t just practical, it was wise. Even thousands of years ago, someone understood that human beings need space to recharge.

But here’s the thing: you don’t need to follow all the rules to enjoy the magic of Shabbat. You don’t need to turn off every light, go to synagogue, or know all the blessings. You don’t need to belong to a community or label yourself as “religious.”

Shabbat Belongs to Every Jewish Family

You get to decide how it looks and feels in your home. Maybe it’s pizza and candles, or a walk around the block with no phones. Maybe it’s extra hugs, a board game, a bedtime story, or sleeping in with no alarm.

However you choose to welcome it, Shabbat is an open invitation to simply be.

Want to bring a little more Shabbat into your home—but in a way that works with real life, real mess, and real kids?

Shabbat doesn’t have to be “all or nothing.” You don’t need a perfectly set table or an unplugged 25 hours. You just need a few small moments that feel special. And yes—your kids can be part of it.

Here are 5 easy and fun Shabbat rituals any family can do, even with young children, busy schedules, and zero stress.

You don’t need to know every blessing. Pick one melody your family likes—maybe “Shabbat Shalom” or “Bim Bam”—and sing it at dinner, in the car, or while setting the table.

Why it works: Repetition = memory = comfort. And singing is fun.

Every Friday, offer one special treat your kids look forward to: grape juice in a fancy glass, a sweet roll, or even extra sprinkles on dessert.

Why it works: Kids love rituals that include their favorite things. You’re building positive associations—and delicious memories.

Try this: put your hand gently on your child’s head and say, “I’m so lucky to be your [mom/dad]. Shabbat Shalom.”

Want to go classic? Use the traditional blessing. Don’t know it? Totally fine. Make it up.

Why it works: It’s a quiet moment of connection that can grow into a lifelong memory.

Can’t do 25 hours offline? Try just one hour. Put phones away, turn off the TV, and play a board game, go for a walk, or cuddle on the couch.

Why it works: It’s not about rules—it’s about presence. And kids notice when you’re really with them.

Shabbat is the perfect excuse to enjoy quality time—without the weekday rush. Pick something simple and joyful: a nature walk, a family board game, building a fort in the living room, or even just dancing in the kitchen. It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. The goal is to connect, laugh, and make memories—because that’s what Shabbat is really about.

Why it works: When you step away from screens and to-do lists, even for a little while, your family can be fully present. Shared fun builds closeness, lowers stress, and helps kids associate Shabbat with warmth and joy—not just rules.

Shabbat Your Way

You don’t have to do all five. Just pick one. Or mix and match. Make it your own.

Because Shabbat isn’t about doing things perfectly. It’s about pausing. Connecting. Adding a bit of the sacred to the everyday.

Even if your house is a balagan.

👉 What’s your favorite Shabbat ritual? Hit reply and let me know!