Rosh Hashanah means "first of the year" and is often referred to as the Jewish New Year's Day. Here is more information about Rosh Hashanah and a great website to share with young patrons.

This New Year's celebration is not an excuse for a party, but an opportunity to reorient oneself to the Creator of the Universe. Rosh Hashanah is not just one day, but a series of days, which are the holiest days of the Jewish calendar.

This holy day's beginning is established in the Bible (Leviticus 23:24-25). It is referred to as Yom Ha-Zikkaron (the day of remembrance) or Yom Teruah (the day of the sounding of the shofar). The ram's horn (shofar) is one of the best known symbols of Rosh Hashanah. The blowing of the ram's horn may have been a call to repentance.

As with many religious holidays, there are foods traditionally associated with Rosh Hashanah. Apples and bread are dipped in honey and eaten. This symbolizes the sweetness of a new year. The sweetness of a new beginning.

There are many great books and resources available. One of my favorite sites, Torah Tots.com has a fun and educational section on Rosh Hashanah. When you click on the All About Rosh Hashanah section even has three types of shofar sounds to hear. There are coloring pages and games for educational fun.

For more information about Rosh Hashanah and Judaism visit the Judaism 101 site. It provides reliable information appropriate for adults and high school students.