Aviva Edelstein

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Nov 14, 2023, 12:45 AM

Not everything needs to be named

Names have a transformative effect on their subjects; they reveal identity, create connections, and tell stories. While they offer information, names also conjure images and emotions that go hand in hand with the relationships we build with them over...

Mar 10, 2022, 2:00 AM

Redemptive Correspondence in Education

Recently, I decided it was time to clear out my email inbox. As I was sorting through old messages, I came across one that I was surprised yet grateful I had missed. Although no longer directly relevant, it concretized...

Dec 30, 2021, 7:20 AM

Creating Safe Spaces in Education

There is a well known motivational theory in psychology that the most basic needs of students need to be met before any higher level learning can take place. A student’s safety needs have to be satisfied as a foundation...

Sep 14, 2021, 9:32 AM

Hearing the tree that falls

Everyone knows the famous thought experiment which asks: “if a tree falls and no one hears it, does it make a sound?”. This somewhat cliched scenario was brought to life to me in a startling way this past Rosh...

May 26, 2021, 2:41 AM

Rediscovering a healing prayer

I recently discovered and then rediscovered an ancient healing prayer. I first learned of it a few years ago in a personal context, and then more recently in conjunction with the Covid-19 vaccine. It is a prayer to be...

Mar 16, 2021, 7:02 PM

Setting Intentions

This article is dedicated in the merit of a complete recovery for my friend Shira bat Devorah Leah — our intentions for every good deed are with you. A yoga instructor may introduce different poses and sequences in each class,...

Dec 28, 2020, 7:26 AM

‘What Do You Do?’

No matter what subjects we teach, we make a point of teaching students how to engage in meaningful conversation. And no matter what area of study or work a student chooses to pursue as they enter adulthood, the hope...

Dec 7, 2020, 5:44 PM

Around the Parent-Teacher Conference Table

One of the most eye-opening opportunities for me as an educator has been rotating around different sides of the parent-teacher conference table. I began on the teacher side, then pivoted to principal, parent, and before I ever anticipated, across...

Dec 1, 2020, 1:06 AM

The Lifelong Learning of Educators

It is not uncommon for adults to enter fields inspired by childhood experiences. Sometimes those experiences motivate us to follow in the footsteps of someone or something we look up to. Other times, inspiration is born from a need...

Nov 12, 2020, 5:45 PM

Open Minds to Open Houses

It is the season for open houses and consideration for new schools. Whether looking to start at the entry-level grade or to transfer midway, there is much to consider when making this important decision. Each mode of communication from...

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About Me

Aviva Edelstein is an educator, writer, and researcher of mindfulness and education. She lives in Teaneck, NJ with her family (and loves when her children contribute Torah sources to her articles).

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