Hanukkah is one of the most kid-friendly Jewish holidays - with its mesmerizing lights, fun dreidel games, tasty treats, and of course, gifts! We have dozens of Jewish toys that will help your child or grandchild connect with their Jewish heritage and the spirit of the Hanukkah season. To give you some gift-shopping inspiration, we've rounded up our 8 favorite made-in-Israel toys for the 8 nights of Hanukkah below, sure to give some holiday cheer to your young loved ones!
Curious where the Hanukkah gift-giving tradition came from? Read our blog post here!
1. Colorful Train Hanukkah Menorah (Choice of Colors)
Designed by renowned Israeli artist Yair Emanuel in his Jerusalem studio, this colorful train is both a beautiful toy and a functional Hanukkah menorah! Crafted from anodized aluminum, the menorah's candleholders sit atop two train cars, while the shamash (helper candle) is nestled higher on the engine car. Available in two color options, it comes with a free blessing booklet and multicolored candles - so it makes a perfect gift for a young child learning about the traditions of the Festival of Lights!
2. Plush Bear with Sweater - Israeli Flag
Soft and cuddly and straight from Israel, this is the perfect stuffed animal for your young loved one to connect with their Jewish pride and love of the Holy Land this Hanukkah. The teddy bear wears a soft white sweatshirt embroidered with an Israeli flag, and has an Star of David on its foot. Great for a child of any age and sure to be loved for years to come!
3. Jerusalem Second Temple Laser Cut DIY Kit
If your kid is a history buff or loves puzzles, this fun and educational Second Temple DIY kit is sure to be a hit this Hanukkah. Made from 267 laser-cut wooden pieces that easily fit together, the kit becomes an intricate and historically accurate model of the Second Temple that can be proudly displayed in your home. It comes with detailed building instructions and an explanation of the Temple's historical and religious background, and will be a great way for your child to connect to Jerusalem and the Hanukkah story of the Temple's rededication by the Maccabees.
4. Lion of Judah Jigsaw Puzzle
Get a Jewish gift that is not only fun, but instills Jewish pride. This roaring Lion of Judah jigsaw puzzle is inspired by the oldest symbol of Judaism, mentioned in the Torah, that still seen on the Jerusalem coat of arms. This is great for different ages, being available in 252 or 520 piece sets. This is a fun challenge for kids during the winter holiday with some time off, that has a Jewish focus.
5. The Knesset Menorah: Do-It-Yourself 3D Puzzle Kit
This distinctive, modern take on the Hanukkah menorah is great for kids as its a fun DIY assembly. Made from laser-cut wood, painted with the image of the Menorah as used in the Temple in Jerusalem. It was not a Hanukkah menorah like one sees now, but lit every day and with 7 branches. This is a fun gift for families to make together, and gives an opportunity to discuss Jewish history and the original menorah around which much of the Hanukkah story centers.
6. Do-It-Yourself Menorah Mosaic Kit
Young history buffs and crafting fans will enjoy creating their own piece of Hanukkah Judaica art with this DIY mosaic kit from Israel! A fun project for the whole family, this kit includes all the tools you need to create a Temple-like menorah design out of mosaic stones, including assembly instructions in English - as well as a wooden board to hang it up and display for years to come.
7. Ark of the Covenant Laser Cut DIY Kit
A great way to connect with Jewish faith and heritage is by building a model of an integral part of the Temple and our people's connection to the Divine: the Ark of the Covenant itself, with this laser cut do-it-yourself kit! It's composed of 36 beautifully painted pieces and comes with illustrated assembly instructions and an information booklet on the Ark of the Covenant. A fun holiday activity for kids, with a meaningful finished piece you'll be proud to display in your home!
8. Children's Train Hanukkah Menorah
Rounding out our list is another colorful piece from Israel's most famous Judaica designer, Yair Emanuel. This chic Hanukkah menorah is shaped like a cylindrical train engine and boasts a hammered metal finish along with colorful candleholders resting on top. Pass on your Hanukkah traditions and the spirit of the Festival of Lights to younger generations with this fun, child-friendly design straight from the Land of Israel!
Check out our other posts and guides on how to make Hanukkah festive and bright for the whole family:
Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Hanukkah Games and Activities
15 Great Hanukkah Gifts for Kids from Israel
8 Classic Hanukkah Foods From Around the World
Shop all our Hanukkah gifts for kids here!
