Jerusalem

Architect Stephen Schwartz, of Building Blocks Workshops, uses LEGO to help teach children about their religious heritage. He comes to synagogues and Jewish schools with a huge map of the old city of Jerusalem and crates full of LEGO. The kids participate in building the walls, gates, the Western Wall and other important sites - it looks like parents get to join in the fun as well. When the building is done, Stephen gives a presentation, talking about the history of Jerusalem and the significance of the sites. He does similar presentations on the Temple, Masada, the Warsaw ghetto and other sites important to Jewish history. For non-religious groups he also does presentations on local architecture and history. What a great way to connect to kids - I'd love to attend one of these events. Photo credits go to KYW Newsradio 1060 and NJJN - New Jersey Jewish News.