This month we were thrilled to welcome Safta (Grandmother) Ali back to JK 104! Safta Ali is a beloved grandfriend from Argentina who has volunteered with our JK class from time to time. We’re excited to share that she will now be joining us every Thursday morning for intergenerational play and learning. With a background as a retired dentist and a passion for jewelry making, we look forward to many engaging conversations and hands-on activities in the weeks ahead!

During her first visit, Safta Ali shared a special piece of her culture by bringing in a traditional maté (type of tea) set sparking curiosity and discussion among the children. The excitement grew when one of our students eagerly shared that they had recently lost a tooth — what a perfect moment for our new grandfriend, a retired dentist! Safta Ali was delighted and promised to bring in her dental kit to teach us more about her past profession.

The presence of grandfriends like Safta Ali is a meaningful part of our classroom experience. Intergenerational connections provide young children with a sense of history, wisdom, and love that enriches their growth. In Judaism, the value of L’dor V’dor, meaning “from generation to generation,” reminds us of the importance of passing down knowledge, traditions, and care between elders and children. Through these interactions, we foster empathy, respect, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

We are so grateful to have Safta Ali as part of our JK 104 family and can’t wait for all the wonderful moments to come!