Oholei Torah is proud to share a series of thoughtful updates that are transforming the Cheder recess into a time that is not only safe and orderly, but also filled with joy and chassidishe spirit. The renewed approach brings a strong sense of structure and care, allowing every talmid to grow and enjoy their break time in a positive, engaging, and well-supervised environment.
At the heart of this initiative is a dedicated full-time recess menahel. Rabbi Zelig Newman was hired to specifically start with grades 3-5, where his presence ensures that talmidim are in the right place and have someone to turn to for guidance or assistance when needed. Supporting him is a trained team of recess rebbeim who bring warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism to every interaction. Together, they have created a smooth and secure flow for each recess period throughout the day.
Each class has its own designated court during outdoor recess, along with a full set of games and balls provided to encourage teamwork, fair play, and active fun. In addition, the Yeshiva offers a wide range of upgraded and expanded play areas, including the gym, upper and lower level playgrounds, two rooftop playgrounds, basketball courts, and the preschool covered playground, giving every talmid a safe, supervised, and enjoyable space to play. Niggunim are played during recess, infusing the atmosphere with the joyful rhythm of Yiddishkeit and adding a uniquely uplifting spirit that keeps the tone of the yard positive and chassidish.
For those who prefer a quieter space, the yeshiva maintains a well-stocked library and an additional reading room, offering many books and a calm, enjoyable environment where talmidim can relax, read, and recharge before returning to class.
To maintain high standards, the recess team meets bi-weekly to review feedback, refine systems, and ensure proactive planning. Clear rules and consistent follow-up keep expectations aligned and every talmid’s well-being at the forefront. Communication with parents remains an essential part of the process, strengthening the partnership between home and Yeshiva.
Under the leadership of Rabbi Yossi Evers, Rabbi Shmuli Friedman, and Rabbi Dudi Askenazi, together with Rabbi Newman, the Cheder recess program now runs with noticeable calm, structure, and confidence. Their steady oversight and thoughtful systems have allowed the day to flow more efficiently, freeing up time for meaningful engagement and further growth across the Yeshiva.
The result is an atmosphere where the talmidim can rejuvenate and recharge while playing with safety, care, inclusion and simcha – reflecting Oholei Torah’s continuous commitment to nurturing every moment of a talmid’s day with intention, respect, and chassidisher varimkeit.
Please elaborate what supervision is like and how bullying is being prevented. Thank you!
As above mentioned, how is bullyin being prevented ? How are kids being included if they don’t like sports ? My son does not like sports and sits on the sidelines . It pains me knowing this .
The article literally mentioned that there are board games and a reading room.
It should be mandatory for kids to be outside at recess as long as the weather permits.
The best outcome out of all this will be stopping bullies in their tracks!
The unfortunate reality of bullying, is that it cannot inherently be stopped. There’s no way to enforce a child to do something. As in, I’m not saying you can’t “punish” or threaten with anything – rather, at the end of the day, every child can still choose to do what they want even with all the best rules in place, and complete supervision. The best way around this is instead of enforcing a “no bullying rule” (which – as mentioned, can’t fully be controlled). We instead teach children about emotions, about ripple effect, about how much our words and actions… Read more »
No tolerance for bullies policy, that simple. Treat bullying as unacceptable as something you consider inappropriate and dangerous. Problem is that the people in charge are wired to be too sympathetic towards bullies for whatever reason and the outcome isnt good for anyone
I am confused by this article. Does this article explain what elementary classes are able to do during the winter when it is too cold to go outside? What are the options other than staying in the class with a few board games? The library cannot accommodate the hundreds of children who are all spending their indoor recess inside their classroom at the same nice.
If a child is bullying another child, he should automatically receive a consequence that is of right judgement until this behaviour stops. Also, discuss this with the parent of the child being bullied. There are ways to help him become stronger and stand up to others. No child should ever feel helpless – how many years of elementary should a child have to go through without a parent being able to help because there’s no way to know what goes on during the 8 hour period of their child in school! If there’s noticeable bullying amongst certain boys – (in… Read more »