Dec 16, 2014
Channukah Apps
(I still can't figure out the right way to spell "חנוכה"in English)
With chanukah starting tonight, many people are busy polishing their silver menorahs, fine tuning their dreidel skills, and searching for the yummiest jelly donut. In the spirit of keeping the flame of the Jewish tradition alive, there are many Channuka apps flying around the tech space and so I decided to search for some of the best Channuka apps. With so many Channuka apps out there, I decided to focus on the apps that offer some educational value and go beyond the simple gamification of Channuka.
There were many apps to choose from and, with that, the future of Jewish education is looking very bright if these apps are an example of what’s in store for innovation that merges technology and Jewish education.
Free
Geared for 2-5 year olds. This app is probably the most comprehensive available. Children can spin the dreidel to choose a color for the candles, set up the Menorah, light their own animated Menorah and sing all the Channukah songs. In addition to teaching kids fundamental skills, during Channukah this app will be sharing to its users via its social channels and blog, a daily packet of supporting materials (infographics, activities, videos) for parents to maximize the 8-day holiday as an opportunity to teach children about core Jewish values. 
Clearly, Jewish Interactive understands the space. The South African organization is dedicated to creating apps that teach children about Judaism, training educators in twenty-first century technology and training students to use tech for Jewish learning.
$1.99
This takes storytelling to a new level. It brings the Maccabee’s victory and the restoration of the Temple to life. The engaging graphics allow children to experience a historic journey of the Channuka story with an undertone of teaching the value of standing for one’s beliefs. Together with the high quality storytelling, this app offers numerous games, gifts and virtual potato latkes.
Free
While geared towards children, parents will appreciate the educational aspects of the app. Chai on Chanukah is an app for teaching children about Chanukah. The app has four interactive components. Children light the menorah and track the days of Chanukah. If they know the meaning of the letters of the dreidel, they can play spin the dreidel with a group of friends. Using their finger, children can move a pair of scissors and open presents. The app also includes a fun and engaging story about Chanukah. 
Combined, these apps serve as excellent educational tools for children of all ages. From the interactive, animated, talking Hanukkah book with games, to a Touch-n-Read platform geared to learning the blessings, these were designed with one goal- education and inspiration.
Like Jewish Interactive, the Behrman House is on the right track of continuing its tradition for creating distinguished Jewish educational materials used in schools throughout North America and in English-speaking countries around the world.
While some may argue that mobile devices focus on providing kids with an escape from reality by just zoning out to their screen, these Channuka apps are infusing our children with an interest and desire to engage with Judaism. By connecting children and the next generation to Judaism with the digital advancements of today, we are actively ensuring that the flame of the Jewish tradition is never extinguished and will shine even brighter.
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