Easter Cookies in Bethlehem

Neighbors gather in a warm kitchen, shaping Maamoul cookies together with laughter and care.

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PARENT-TEACHER GUIDE

Easter Cookies in Bethlehem

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Country: Palestine

Ages: 5-8,8-10

Author: Haifa Khoury

Publisher: Zamasama Original

Illustrator: Jinan Jiha

About The Story

Set in the historic town of Bethlehem, this heartwarming story celebrates the bond between neighbors of different faiths. When Mrs. Mary breaks her arm just before Easter and is unable to bake her beloved Maamoul—traditional date‑filled cookies—her Muslim neighbor, Mama Hala, gathers her family and friends to help. Together, they mix, shape, and bake the cookies, making sure Easter still arrives with sweetness and tradition. Easter is celebrated around the world, and though customs vary by region, the spirit of renewal, joy, and community remains the same. In desert regions like Palestine, ingredients like dates are commonly used, showcasing how local foods shape festive treats. Through shared ovens and warm hearts, this story reminds us that compassion knows no religious boundary.

Themes

Community

Cultural Traditions

Sub Themes

Interfaith Friendship

Neighborliness

Celebrating Festivals

Celebrating Diversity

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

Recognize that festivals are celebrated around the world in a similar mould or differently, often shaped by local customs and ingredients.
Reflect on how kindness can bridge cultural and religious differences.
Learn about the tradition of Maamoul and its cultural significance during Easter.
Understand that community support is a universal value found in every culture.

Lesson Plan

Students explore the cultural and emotional meaning of festivals, and interfaith friendship through storytelling, group discussion, and activities.

Activities

Maamoul Cookie Art– Draw or mold your own Maamoul cookies using play‑dough or clay and decorate them with traditional patterns.
Festival Food Around the World– Create a chart showing traditional festival foods from different countries and compare ingredients.
Kindness Chain– Write and link paper notes describing one kind thing to do during a festival for someone in your community.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

What do you know about Easter? What foods or traditions do people follow for this festival?
Have you ever helped someone celebrate a festival different from yours?

During reading

How does Mrs. Mary feel when she can’t bake her Easter cookies?
Why does Mama Hala decide to help?
What does baking Maamoul together symbolize?

After reading

What do you think is the most important part of celebrating festivals—food, people, or tradition?
Can you think of a time when kindness made a celebration more special?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Quality Education: Introduces children to global traditions, encouraging appreciation of diverse celebrations and values.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Reduced Inequalities: Celebrates inclusion and equality by showing support across religious and cultural lines.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Models peaceful coexistence, community support, and mutual respect among diverse neighbors.

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