Mommy Is Davening, but What Are the Kids Doing?

# Overview

# Activities that work on Yom Tov

• Supplies: pipe cleaners and cereal loops or other stringable snacks.
• Age range: broad—toddlers through early elementary can do it with varying levels of help.
• Why it works: tactile, repetitive, and edible incentives keep attention.

• Use painter's tape to make roads, rooms, and obstacle courses on floors and tabletops.

Single-player games and board games

• Keep a shelf of single-player options and quiet board games suitable for Yom Tov (no electronics).
• If you anticipate only one child being home, choose games designed for solo play.

• A stack of new or favorite books stretches independent sitting time more than most toys.

• Limit the day's options to a few familiar, quiet toys to reduce transitions and requests for help.

# Food and meal prep

Prepping filling food ahead of time prevents hunger-driven interruptions.

• Prepare a Crock-Pot dish ahead and set it to warm for the day. The original post recommends kugel and cholent as family-proven options.

• Boiled eggs, a pot of cooked pasta, and ready-to-grab wholesome snacks keep kids satisfied with minimal prep.
• Consider a snack station (pre-plated cups or containers) so kids can self-serve.

• Make a double batch of a favorite casserole: one for the pre-fast meal and one left warming for the children.

# Teaching and behavior tools

Use the day as an opportunity to teach short, age-appropriate lessons about Yom Kippur and conduct.

• Short scripts and role-play can help young children connect to the idea of sincere apology.

• Review and practice simple, concrete instructions before the fast so children know expectations.

# Practical prep and extras

• Set up activities and food the day before where possible. Put out a limited selection of toys and books to avoid overwhelm.
• Consider a small dessert reception on Erev Yom Kippur as an incentive for chores like clean rooms.
• If older children will attend shul, pack a quiet bag with games and books for back-up.

Gmar Chatimah Tovah: planning the day in advance—both activities and food—reduces interruptions and helps a mom get meaningful time for davening while keeping kids content and safe.