choose a mitzvah: 15 for 15
primary school version
A Mitzvah is like a small light. When many people do Mitzvahs,
the whole world becomes brighter and safer for everyone.
Kids — your Mitzvahs make a very big difference. There are many simple and important Mitzvahs you can do every day.
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Look at the ideas below and choose a Mitzvah to do.
You can also think of your own.
Each Mitzvah you do brings more light, hope, and healing into the world, especially in memory of those who lost their lives at Bondi.
What is a Mitzvah?
In Jewish tradition, a Mitzvah is a good deed. It is something kind, caring, and responsible that helps make the world a better place.
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Mitzvahs help us become better people and help others too.
1. say thank you
As you open your eyes in the morning, start your day with a simple sentence of thanks to G-d for the gift of life and for all the good things in your life.
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In honour of Dan Elkayam, who carried a deep sense of gratitude for life and for G-d’s beautiful world, with a particular love for nature and for travelling to discover new places.
2. Be Kind to Everyone
Be friendly and kind to all children at school, even if they are not in your class or friend group. Choose them as a partner, give them a compliment, or play with them at recess.
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In honour of Edith Brutman, a true model of generosity.
3. A moment of silence
Start your day with a moment of silence. Ask your parents for ideas about what you can think about.
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In honour of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who encouraged the fulfilment of this Mitzvah.
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Suggested Meditation:
Dear G-d, Thank You for making me unique and special. Help me use my gifts to make a difference in the world, and to always choose what is right.
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Click here to find other ideas for your moment of silence.
4. Stay Safe on Wheels
Always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter, or rollerblades. Help keep yourself and others safe.
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In honour of Boris Gurman, who wanted everyone to be safe.
5. Pause Before You React
If someone upsets you, take a breath and wait 30 seconds before you respond.
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In honour of Boris Tetleroyd, who was an excellent communicator and really knew how to listen to others.
6. Include Others
Think of someone who may feel left out. Invite them for for a playdate at home or at the park.
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In honour of Sofia Gurman, who expressed love so beautifully through hospitality.
7. Care for Someone Who Is Sick
If a friend is away from school, check how they are. Make a “get well soon” card for someone who is not feeling well.
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In honour of Marika Pogony, a tireless Meals on Wheels volunteer caring for the elderly and vulnerable.
8. Honour Your Parents and Grandparents
Listen the first time, speak kindly and respectfully, and be thoughtful, especially by not waking them when they are sleeping.
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In honour of Rabbi Yaakov Levitan, a model of devotion and respect to his parents.
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Click here for a beautiful story about honouring one's parents.
9. Read Good Books
Read stories about people who make the world a better place and ideas that inspire you to be your best.
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In honour of Peter "Marzo" Meagher, retired police officer, volunteer, and servant of the public.
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Click here to access a list of recommended children's books.
10. Spend Time With Your Family
Have one-hour screen-free time after school. Talk together, play a game, or eat a meal together.
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In honour of Tibor Weitzen, who welcomed others with warmth and sweetness.
11. Be Loving
Tell your family and friends that you love them. Tell them why you are grateful for them.
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In honour of Tania Tretiak, a grandmother who loved her family.​​
12. Care for Animals
If you have a pet, feed it before you eat and take it for walks when needed.
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In honour of Matilda Bee Britvan (age 10), a radiant child who loved animals and brought light and joy to everyone.
13. Pray for Others
Say a prayer for people who are sick, sad, or lonely, and ask that they feel better.
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In honour of Alex Kleytman, who used his expertise as an engineer to help make the Harbour Bridge safe for all of us.
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Click here to for suggested prayers.
14. Give to Others
Keep a small charity box in your room. Add coins regularly. When it is full, ask an adult to help you give the money to charity.
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​In honour of Ruvien Morrison, a man of incredible generosity.
Click here to find out where to get a charity box.
15. share with others
Share your stationary and games with other people in your class, without expecting anything in return.
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​In honour of Adam Smyth, a true mensch - generous, kind, and always giving without expecting anything in return.