Spy Cameras in Gan

A new trend in Israeli parenting involves equipping small children with spy cameras to catch a ganenet (kindergarten teacher) during the act of child abuse. In Makor Rishon's "Tzedek" supplement (January 16), Itzik Wolf wrote that the education ministry is preparing a legal document that will … [Read more...]

Have You Hugged Your Saya’at Today? Teacher’s Aides in Israel

One of the first lessons I learned when my kids started gan (Israeli preschool) is the importance of a good "saya'at," or teacher's aide. The saya'at prepares sandwiches, washes dishes, and cleans floors. She helps children in the bathroom. She cuts up construction paper. In her free time, she gives … [Read more...]

Who Will Be Watching Your Kids Next Year?

Update: I spoke with Shoshana Hayman of the Life Center, who has been meeting with the education ministry to address parents' concerns about the new system. First of all, only 5-year-old kindergarten is mandatory. 3 and 4-year-olds will have free preschool until 2 PM. There will be an option of … [Read more...]