My 3rd grader has a wonderful teacher this year. We would love to give her a gift for Hannakah, is this appropriate? If the teacher were not Jewish, we would have no issues with giving her a Christmas gift, but we don't want to be insensitive to her religion since we are not Jewish. If this is appropriate, when should we give it to her, as Hannakah is for 8 days?
2007-11-16 05:54:27 · 30 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
And people say that Christians are intolerant and disrespectful of others. Thank you for proving them wrong about at least one of us. It is both appropriate and acceptable for your child to give his teacher a gift. My fourth grade teacher was Jewish and I gave her a small gift each of the eight days. She taught us all about her traditions and made us some latkes (I think that is spelled right, they are potato pancakes), it was an awesome learning experience and the latkes were awesome!
2007-11-16 06:03:13 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 7⤊ 0⤋
I think this is such a LOVELY idea and I'm sure the teacher will be really touched.
It is not at all 'insensitive' for your child to give a little gift, but very sweet of your for considering this :)
I would suggest giving it on the first day of Chanukah; you can usually find Chanukah cards in most shops, which will make it clear that it isn't in any way an Xmas gift. But even without a specific Chanukah card, there's no problem.
I'm Jewish, but I give Christian friends xmas cards and xmas presents!
I wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy new year :)
2007-11-16 06:01:40 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 6⤊ 0⤋
I'm jewish. I think that it would be very thoughtful. It doesnt matter which of the 8 days that you give it to her.
Hanukkah is not like a Jewish Christmas, btw. So really, the gift is not necessary. But no doubt your child's teacher will be touched.
2007-11-16 05:59:17 · answer #3 · answered by sahel578 5 · 4⤊ 0⤋
it's absolutely lovely!!! that's very thoughtful and a wonderful gift to give your child! i send my jewish friends hannakah cards and they send me Christmas cards! when is your child out for the holiday? if it falls during the 8 days - give the last day. one thing - no "pseudo Jewish items" my buddies always laugh at the "Star fo David (aka Jewish) Christmas Tree Ornaments" and things like that - totally nuts ; )
2007-11-16 05:59:14 · answer #4 · answered by Marysia 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I don't think it's inappropriate at all.
Just find out what the Jewish custom is for when gifts are given. Actually, if you got her a Hannulkah card and a gift, he could bring that in on the day all the other kids are bringing theirs in. I'm sure she would appreciate it, and it would be received in the spirit it was given.
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2007-11-16 05:58:41 · answer #5 · answered by Char 7 · 6⤊ 0⤋
Go ahead, do it either the first or the last day he will be in school during Hannakah.
2007-11-16 06:01:36 · answer #6 · answered by Sister blue eyes 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Not necessary.
You can show your appreciation to the teacher without giving gifts.
2007-11-18 13:44:21 · answer #7 · answered by mo mosh 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go for it. I have a friend who is Jewish and I give him a Hanukkah gift and card. Not only is it appropriate but I think your child would be disappointed if you didn't
2007-11-16 06:08:00 · answer #8 · answered by ? 4 · 3⤊ 1⤋
What a nice idea! She will be pleased that you recognize her holiday. (BTW, it runs from Dec. 5 thru Dec. 12). Very few Christians acknowledge Jewish holidays, and probably don't even know that some of their friends are Jews.
Edit: Forget the "holiday" business. Let her know that you intend it for Hannukah! "Holiday" is very impersonal and implies that you are so lazy you can't be bothered by putting any thought into personalizing your gifts/greetings!
Reform Jew
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2007-11-16 06:06:11 · answer #9 · answered by Hatikvah 7 · 5⤊ 1⤋
Why not? Tis the season to be thoughtful, I know he/she would greatly appreciate your generosity! I have Jewish co-workers and give gifts to them during their Hanukkah celebration. I give theirs on the first day of Hanukkah, but I know they wouldn't care if I gave it during the middle, end, or not at all, it's the thought! How very considerate of you to not only give, but research the etiquette involved! If only all of us Christians were so accepting and not forceful of our beliefs. I love reading questions like this!
2007-11-16 06:05:14 · answer #10 · answered by Mookie 5 · 6⤊ 0⤋