Israeli Rabbis Advise Parents to Relax and Empower Teens During Bein Hazmanim Vacation

As the Bein Hazmanim vacation approaches, Israeli families face the challenge of managing the sudden shift from a strict daily routine to a more relaxed home environment filled with extended family. Rabbis Asaf Razon and Moshe Rabbi emphasize that early preparation and clear expectations are key to turning this period into a meaningful and joyful experience rather than a chaotic one.

The rabbis advise parents to stop waking their children early and to release pressure regarding study and prayer obligations. They stress that from the age of bar mitzvah, spiritual responsibility lies with the child, not the parent. Parents should avoid acting as alarm clocks and instead support their teens’ personal accountability. Recognizing the intense academic and social pressures teens endure during the school year, Bein Hazmanim should be a time for relaxation and positive family bonding.

To foster a calm and happy home, the rabbis recommend reducing formality, encouraging playful interactions, and sharing treats and meals together. When sibling conflicts arise, parents should refrain from judging and allow children to resolve disputes independently. This approach, they say, can transform the vacation from a stressful ordeal into an opportunity for family unity, personal growth, and spiritual elevation.

The rabbis conclude that embracing the change in routine as part of divine will can help parents and children alike enjoy a successful and pleasant Bein Hazmanim period.