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Children at Agudas Achim Preschool in Alexandria are learning about Passover through music, crafts and hands-on activities designed to make the holiday’s story and traditions accessible to young students.

Passover began April 12 and ends April 19. The Jewish holiday commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from slavery in Egypt and coincides with a spring season that also includes Ramadan, observed from March 1 through March 30, and Easter on April 20.

“We really want them to understand that this is a celebration of freedom,” said Jen Halpern, the preschool’s director and director of young family engagement. She said the lessons explore Jewish freedom while helping children understand the broader meaning of making their own choices and freedom for all people.

Students ages 2 to 5 created matzah, Afikomen bags and Seder plates. Halpern said the activities engage the children’s senses while teaching how Passover objects and rituals represent different parts of the story.

The Seder, a ritual meal that retells the Passover story, also creates opportunities for children to ask questions and participate. Halpern said its traditions encourage those at the table to remember the exodus as though they had experienced it themselves.

Music offered another way to engage the preschoolers. Students made props and performed a sing-along about the Passover plagues for family and friends. Humorous images, including frogs jumping on Pharaoh’s bed, head and clothing, helped make the story memorable for young children.

Halpern also connected the lessons to the wider community as Jewish, Christian and Muslim families observed major holidays during the spring.

“I just want to wish everyone a beautiful spring holiday season,” she said.