|
How Wonder Wheels is creating spaces of calm and healing for children in the Galilee Have you ever noticed that unexpected kindness can move a person to tears? Trauma researchers explain that these tears aren’t born from sadness; they are the physiological response of a nervous system that has been running on "threat detection" for too long. When a child is braced against danger, genuine warmth creates a sudden, safe space. The tears are a "Neural Reset"—the system finally exhaling after holding its breath. At the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, we aren’t waiting for our physical building to be finished to provide this sanctuary. We are creating it every single day through our singular mobile unit, Wonder Wheels.  The photo shared here captures the humans who make that "exhale" possible. This team is the heartbeat of our mission. They have poured their time, their sweat, and their own joy into this region because they understand a fundamental truth: we lift ourselves to lift the entire region. They work tirelessly in the background, not out of pity, but out of a fierce dedication to protecting the childhoods of the North. In January alone, this team and the Wonder Wheels project achieved an impact that is truly inconceivable: 1,478 Young Souls Reached: That represents nearly 1,500 individual nervous systems given a chance to stop scanning for threats and start looking for wonder. A Relentless Daily Mission: Our team mobilized for 22 separate sessions this month, navigating the roads of the Galilee to ensure no community was left without a moment of peace. The Power of Calm: We saw the impact in the 4th-grade student who used our workshop as a sanctuary to write a letter to her hospitalized father, finding her voice when she needed it most. We heard it in the child who told our staff with a newfound smile, "I didn't know that calm could be so fun". Our staff provides the "positive gap" between the stress of the world and the received kindness of the Museum. They are the reason these children can finally stop holding their breath. We are bringing them into the light today because their work is the most important "exhibit" we have. Help us celebrate this incredible team and the children they serve. Please Like and Share this post to spread the word about the resilience being built in our community. Please "Like" and Share
0 Comments
 Tu B’Shvat is the "New Year for the Trees"—a moment on the Jewish calendar dedicated to planting saplings, tending to the earth, and celebrating the potential of new growth. It is a custom to go out into the fields, plant a tree, and commit to the stewardship of our planet.
For the last two years, this season was marked by the sounds of conflict—sirens and uncertainty. But this year, the skies over the North are quiet. This silence is not just a relief; it is a critical window of opportunity. It is time to turn our attention from survival to cultivation. A child, much like a sapling, cannot grow on cleared ground alone. To thrive, they need nutrient-rich soil, deep watering, essential vitamins, and the warmth of the sun. At the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, we strive to be that gardener. We are pouring into them the nutrients of STEAM education, the water of emotional support, and the sunlight of "The Art of Play." We live in a beautiful but volatile region. While we are grateful for the quiet today, we know that stability is not guaranteed. That is why our work right now is so urgent. We must use this time of peace to help our children send their roots down deep—anchoring them into a foundation of emotional strength and resilience. We are building their internal resources now, so that no matter what winds may blow in the future—be it a crisis, a trauma, or a storm—they will have the tools to stand firm. We are preparing them to not just enjoy the spring, but to be sturdy enough to withstand any winter. Help us ensure that when the winds come, our children remain unshakable. Support the growth of the next generation here.  The youngest children in Northern Israel have lived through disruption and fear at an age when they do not yet have language for what they are experiencing. Many were infants or toddlers when sirens, displacement, separation, and prolonged instability became part of daily life — but the impact reaches far beyond the very young. Hundreds of thousands of children across the north have grown up amid constant alerts, explosions, parents and older siblings away fighting a war, and the unsettling presence of tanks and military convoys on everyday roads. They cannot always articulate loss, anxiety, or confusion, but they carry it in their bodies, in their behavior, and in how they relate to the world. Today, that stress has not eased. As renewed threats, including the fear of missile attacks from Iran, dominate the national consciousness, anxiety levels are once again high. Adults, who are also feeling the stress, may understand geopolitics; children simply absorb tension. They sense fear in their parents, react to sudden sirens or warnings, and live with an underlying uncertainty that safety can change at any moment. For children who have already endured months of instability, each new threat compounds what they have yet to process. Research and experience tell us that early and prolonged stress, when left unaddressed, does not simply fade with time. It shapes how children learn, regulate emotions, take risks, and build trust. At the same time, these early years are also a period of extraordinary opportunity. With the right environments, children can process experience, rebuild a sense of safety, and develop the foundations for resilience, curiosity, and confidence. This is why places designed specifically for children matter. Not clinics, and not classrooms alone — but environments where play, exploration, and discovery allow children to regain a sense of agency and joy. By investing in children during these formative years, we are not only supporting individual well-being; we are strengthening families, communities, and the long-term future of the Galilee itself. We're building more than a museum, we're building a future for the children
Well, we should've posted this video months ago. It's from our very first pilot and school program for Wonder Wheels our mobile unit. We've grown a lot since then, so this isn't really our current state, but it's excellent to show a little bit about us. Of course there's so much more to come so stay tuned. Please tell your friends about us. It takes a community to build such a beautiful project. If you're not already on our mailing list, scroll down to the footer of this website and you'll see the sign up for our newsletter.
If you're here, you must have an understanding of the importance of play in brain development. Just in case you need more information, or to validate the good we're doing by building this fantastic play place for children to grow, explore, and discover. What an important basis for bringing children a play space! We love to hear from you! We love this season of growth and renewal Translating Vision into Reality Just a few short months ago, we shared the exciting news that our Mobile MakerSpace was up and running. Today, we’re thrilled to announce two meaningful updates: a fresh new name and a fantastic new team member. With enthusiastic support all around, the unit is now officially called Wonder Wheels (in Hebrew, גלגלי הפלא)—a name that captures the spirit of movement, creativity, and discovery. We’re also delighted to welcome Nofar Atas as our Head of Education and Training for Wonder Wheels. Nofar holds a diploma in Education from Hebrew University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the prestigious Bezalel Academy in Jerusalem—an ideal combination of experience and creativity for leading our program. She’s already hit the ground running, helping secure a wonderful new collaboration with Imagine, the mobile music initiative. Together, we’ll bring an innovative blend of STEAM and music programming to students in both formal and informal educational settings (more on that soon!). Over the Passover holiday, Wonder Wheels also hosted a festive Kids Fun Day in Moshav Elifelet in the Galilee, filled with hands-on activities in art, engineering, and science—yes, there was slime! Dozens of children spent hours exploring, creating, and learning through play. We’re so excited about the energy and creativity Nofar brings, and we can’t wait to see where Wonder Wheels rolls next. OUR MUSEUM HAS A HOMEThe Lower Galilee Council, our municipal partner, has generously allocated 20 dunams (approximately 5 acres) for our project, as confirmed in our partnership agreement. This is big! Nestled in the heart of the Lower Galilee, an agricultural region known for its open spaces, heritage, and natural beauty, our museum is strategically situated to foster community and cultural growth. This developing region thrives on inclusion, diversity, and regional identity. Near the Golani Intersection, the site is close to the Kaduri School Complex with over 2,000 students—an ideal environment to engage and inspire the next generation.  In this land, each child is a new chapter in an ancient story. Strong Foundations & Shared WisdomWe’re proud to introduce our new Israeli Advisory Council—a powerhouse of scientists, educators, innovators, and social change-makers. Each member brings deep expertise from their field, along with a passion for shaping a better future for all children in Israel. Representing a wide range of cultural and professional backgrounds, they reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. This council will help guide our vision with insight, imagination, and integrity—ensuring that the museum we build is inclusive, inspiring, and built to last. Meet our Israel Advisory Council Members: Faed Deeb - An expert in educational leadership and technology, Faed has over 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and lecturer, with a focus on integrating innovation in Druze and Circassian schools. Dr. Nira Kaplansky - An expert in trauma therapy and resilience, Dr. Kaplansky heads the Innovation Unit at MASHABIM and consults globally on child mental health, early childhood media, and community-based healing. Atar Razy-Oren - CEO and Co-Founder of Beyachad – Carasso Family Foundation, Atar brings nearly 25 years of leadership in social innovation focused on education, tech, and youth empowerment in the Galilee. Dr. Amal Shibli - A pharmaceutical industry expert with advanced degrees from Hebrew University and the Technion, Dr. Shibli leads biotech and GMP operations at Sigma-Aldrich Israel and serves as Business Excellence Manager. Keren Zilberman Shavit - A social-economic entrepreneur and PhD fellow, Keren has led award-winning ventures in digital health and regional leadership, with a focus on northern Israel.  Be a Part of Something Truly Incredible! Click here to Donate  Tu B’Shvat, the New Year for Trees, is almost here, and there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by honoring the first blossoms of the season! In northern Israel, the almond trees (שקדיות) are already beginning to bloom, heralding a time of growth, renewal, and resilience. 🌿 These delicate white and pink flowers remind us that, even in the cold of winter, life is beginning to stir beneath the surface. 🌱 Why the Almond Tree? Almond trees are special for many reasons. Unlike other trees that need a long, cold winter to awaken, almond trees bloom early—often before the weather fully changes. This makes them the perfect symbol of Tu B’Shvat and the themes of new beginnings, resilience, and hope. As the first tree to bloom, the almond tree teaches us that change doesn’t always happen when we expect it, but it’s always coming. The blossoms remind us that, even in times of hardship or uncertainty, life continues to push forward, and growth is just around the corner. The Spirit of Tu B’Shvat: A Time for Renewal Tu B’Shvat is more than just a celebration of trees; it’s a reminder to reflect on the cycles of nature and the renewal they represent. It’s a time to think about the roots of our own lives—what is growing beneath the surface, and what we hope to nurture in the coming year. Whether through planting a tree, enjoying fruits of the earth, or embracing creativity, this holiday invites us to celebrate the promise of growth, even in the most unexpected places. Get Creative with Almond Blossom Art! What better way to embrace the spirit of Tu B’Shvat than by getting your hands messy and making your very own almond tree blossom artwork? Here’s a simple craft idea that you can do at home with the whole family. It’s a wonderful way to teach kids about the beauty of the almond tree while fostering creativity. DIY Almond Blossom Craft: A Fun and Creative Way to Celebrate Materials you’ll need: ✨ Brown paper or cardboard (for the tree branches) ✨ Pink & white paint (or tissue paper) ✨ Small brush or cotton swabs (for adding texture to the blossoms) Steps to create your almond tree: 1️⃣ Start with the branches: Using the brown paint, paint a tree trunk and branches onto your paper or cardboard. You can make it as simple or as detailed as you like! 2️⃣ Add the blossoms: Dip your fingertips or cotton swabs into the pink and white paint. Gently press them onto the paper to create the almond blossoms. If you’d like a more textured effect, crumple up small pieces of pink and white tissue paper and glue them onto the branches for a 3D look! 3️⃣ Let it dry: Once your artwork is dry, proudly display it as a reminder of the resilience and renewal that Tu B’Shvat represents! This is a simple yet meaningful way to introduce children to the beauty of nature and the importance of trees, while also allowing them to get creative and make their own personal interpretation of this special time of year. The Almond Tree’s Message: Trust in the Unseen In the quiet of winter, when everything seems bare and still, the almond tree stands tall against the winter sky—a reminder that life is always beginning anew, even when we can’t see it yet. Tu B’Shvat carries a powerful message: trust in the unseen, for the roots of tomorrow are growing today. As you celebrate this holiday, take a moment to reflect on what is quietly growing in your own life. Just like the almond tree, we may not always see immediate results, but the roots of our dreams and intentions are firmly planted. All we have to do is trust the process and believe that growth will come when the time is right. Your Tu B’Shvat Traditions We’d love to hear from you: What are your favorite Tu B’Shvat traditions? Do you have a special way of celebrating the New Year for Trees? Share your thoughts and creative ideas with us in the comments! Tu B’Shvat is not just a celebration of trees—it’s a celebration of life, growth, and renewal. By taking the time to appreciate the blooming almond trees and creating your own art, you’re connecting with the cycles of nature and embracing the spirit of Tu B’Shvat. So, whether you’re planting a tree, making crafts, or simply reflecting on the growth in your life, let this holiday inspire you to trust in the unseen roots that will help you bloom in the year ahead. 🌸✨   When the idea for the Mobile MakerSpace was born, it was a vision of a van equipped with cutting-edge technology, creative workshops, and tools for resilience, traveling across the north to spark inspiration and hope in children. The war pushed us to reimagine how we could support children in the north. While building the museum remained our long-term goal, we knew we needed to provide something for the kids now—something immediate to help them cope, create, and dream, even amidst uncertainty. On January 16, 2025, that became a reality. At Nitzanim School in Karmiel, we officially launched the Mobile MakerSpace with an event that inspired excitement and joy among the children—and everyone involved. This transformative initiative was made possible by the generous donations and matching contributions from Dr. Drew and Dr. Mary Ellen Weissman (Weissman Family Charitable Fund), whose support has sustained us through our formative years. Thank you also to The Kadosh Family Foundation, and the Leve Foundation, and every donor who has given so generously to help turn a vision of creativity, innovation, and education into a powerful tool for empowering children, nurturing emotional resilience, and inspiring new possibilities. The event was more than a celebration. It was a tangible demonstration of how creativity, innovation, and education can combine to empower children, nurture emotional resilience, and inspire new possibilities. A Day of Creativity and Connection The launch event was filled with hands-on activities designed to engage, inspire, and challenge the children to think differently.
Bringing the Vision to Life The Mobile MakerSpace isn’t just about technology—it’s about meeting children where they are, regardless of background or circumstances, and giving them the tools to explore, create, and dream. This unique initiative, made possible by the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, was developed in partnership with Dror Israel, the FoReal Team, Yaelke Design and the Community Stress Prevention Center, with professional guidance from Dr. Mooli Lahad and Dr. Nira Kaplansky—leaders in emotional resilience. As Dr. Lahad explained, “Resilience is built through creative responses to challenges. The Mobile MakerSpace offers children the chance to discover new ways to express themselves and develop their inner strength.” The Mobile Makers van is more than just equipment - it’s a platform for connection, creativity, and growth. Over the next year, we hope to travel across the north, reaching thousands of children from diverse communities—Jewish, Arab, Druze, and Christian—providing equal access to opportunities for learning and self-expression. A Moment to Reflect and Celebrate The launch event was a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to turn an idea into action. From the donors who believed in this program when it was only a dream, to the educators, partners, and children who brought it to life—it was a moment of connection, creativity, and hope. As Eli Moskowitz, CEO of the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, shared, “We are proud to lead an initiative that combines educational experiences with advanced technology. The Mobile MakerSpace gives children the opportunity to create, learn, and dream, leaving them inspired for the future.” This is just the beginning. The Mobile MakerSpace will continue to travel, inspire, and create lasting impact for children throughout the Galilee and beyond. Looking Ahead We believe in the power of creativity to transform lives. We’ve seen it firsthand in the smiles, the stories, and the spark of curiosity that lit up the children’s eyes during the launch event. Thank you to everyone who made this possible—your belief, your generosity, and your commitment to a brighter future for the children of the north. Let’s keep building a future full of creativity, innovation, and hope—together. Donate - Children's Museum of the Galilee At the heart of every child’s development lies the transformative power of PLAY. It’s a universal language, one that transcends boundaries, sparks imaginations, and unlocks hidden potential. Through play, children discover who they are, what they can achieve, and how they can connect with the world around them. But play is not a singular force—it’s made up of many essential elements that, when combined, shape the foundation for growth, learning, acceptance, and creativity. In this blog, we explore the four pillars of play--Potential, Learning, Acceptance, and Youthfulness—and why they are critical to a child's development, both as individuals and as members of a larger community. We’ll also explain how, together, they create a space where every child can thrive.  Unlocking Potential through Play At the core of play lies potential—the untapped abilities and possibilities in every child. When children are given the opportunity to explore and experiment freely, they uncover strengths they never knew they had. Play enables them to push boundaries, take risks, and develop resilience. Through the freedom of play, children learn to navigate the world on their terms, laying the groundwork for all future development. This untapped potential is the foundation of a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence. By providing a space where children can discover their abilities without limits, we set them on a path toward becoming empowered, independent, and courageous individuals. Play gives them the confidence to dream big and take on challenges with determination.  Empowering Minds through Learning Learning is one of the most vital outcomes of play. It’s through engaging in hands-on, interactive experiences that children turn curiosity into understanding, and understanding into knowledge. Play is the ultimate learning tool, as it immerses children in experiences that spark questions, inspire exploration, and foster critical thinking. When children actively participate in their learning, they develop the ability to think independently, problem-solve, and retain information. This type of experiential learning doesn’t just educate the mind—it inspires lifelong curiosity and a passion for discovery. Through play, children learn to see challenges as opportunities, which sets the stage for them to be lifelong learners, constantly evolving and adapting to the world around them.  Fostering Acceptance in Every Child At its most profound, play fosters a sense of acceptance. It is through the universal language of play that children from all backgrounds, abilities, and walks of life come together, forming connections and bonds that transcend differences. Every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued, and play provides a space where children can express themselves authentically without fear of judgment. Through inclusive play experiences, children develop empathy and understanding, learning to appreciate and respect one another’s uniqueness. These interactions teach children that they are not only part of a community, but integral to it. When children feel accepted, they grow with confidence, ready to contribute to a more compassionate and united world. Play is not just a tool for fun—it’s the foundation of social harmony, where diversity is celebrated, and inclusion is embraced.  Keeping Youthfulness Alive There is a unique magic to youthfulness—the boundless creativity, joy, and curiosity that children exude. Play is the essence of this youthful spirit, keeping the spark of imagination alive. Through imaginative play, children create worlds of their own, transforming everyday objects into instruments of creativity and invention. This unrestricted freedom of expression allows them to explore, experiment, and discover in ways that shape their identities and visions of the world. Youthfulness is not only about play—it’s about nurturing a child’s innate ability to dream, to invent, and to question. As children play, they develop a sense of wonder that propels them forward into adulthood with the same enthusiasm and sense of possibility they had as children. Play keeps that magic alive, helping children retain their curiosity and zest for life, and fueling the innovative thinkers of tomorrow.  The Transformative Power of PLAY When we combine these four elements—Potential, Learning, Acceptance, and Youthfulness—we create something truly transformative. It’s not just about one aspect of development; it’s about the holistic growth of a child as an individual and as part of a larger community. Each pillar of play builds upon the other. Potential drives learning, learning fosters acceptance, acceptance nurtures the freedom to explore, and youthfulness keeps the spark of imagination alive. Together, they form the foundation for resilience, creativity, empathy, and innovation—qualities that will help children navigate an ever-changing world. Join us in Creating a Space Where Play Shapes the Future At the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, we believe in the power of play to shape the future. Every child deserves a space where they can explore their potential, engage in hands-on learning, experience acceptance, and unleash their creativity. Together, we can create a place where children are empowered to become the leaders, thinkers, and innovators of tomorrow. Your support makes all the difference. By contributing to this mission, you are helping us create a transformative space for children to grow, learn, and thrive through the power of play. Donate today and be part of shaping a brighter future for our children: Donate - Children's Museum of the Galilee
 As we welcome the New Year, we look back on a year that was full of ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. It’s in these moments we discover our capacity to grow, adapt, and move forward. As adults, we often reflect on these experiences to find strength and purpose—but what if we could equip our children with the tools to do the same from an early age?
At the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, our mission is to empower children to embrace life’s highs and lows with confidence and creativity. Through purposeful play, we aim to teach children that mistakes are opportunities, challenges are stepping stones, and resilience is the key to thriving in an ever-changing world. Here are some engaging activities you can do that embody our mission to foster resilience and growth: 1. "Mistake" Art Children can transform unexpected marks into creative masterpieces, learning that errors can spark innovation and joy. 6 Effective Resilience Activities that Welcome Empathy | Slumberkins 2. Growth Mindset Printables Visual resources that remind children to persevere through challenges, building a foundation of determination and optimism. The ABCs of Making Mistakes with a Growth Mindset (Free Printable)! 3. Role-Playing Scenarios Interactive games where children explore problem-solving, empathy, and adaptability in a safe and imaginative way. Developing Resilience Through Children’s Activities • Kidztivity 4. Obstacle Course Challenges Dynamic setups that encourage children to overcome unexpected changes and develop flexibility in their thinking. Building Resilience Through Play: Helping Young Children Bounce Back from Challenges - Imagination Playground These activities are just a glimpse of what the Children’s Museum of the Galilee will bring to life. Together, we can create a space that celebrates resilience, nurtures curiosity, and strengthens our community. Your support can make this vision a reality. By contributing to the Children’s Museum of the Galilee, you’re investing in a place where every child can grow, dream, and discover their potential. Start this New Year by being part of something extraordinary. Donate today and join us in building a brighter future for the children of the Galilee. Donate - Children's Museum of the Galilee |
Author
Children's Museum of the Galilee is a not for profit organization building a place of curiosity, play, discovery, and joy for all children in Israel. Archives
September 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed
Be a part of something great.
|
HOURS:
Interested in exploring the Museum and letting your imagination run free? So are we! If funding from generous donors like you comes in as planned, we will open in 2028-2029! 
We are a registered 501(c)(3) in the U.S. and can issue tax exempt receipts. We are also a registered and recognized amutah in Israel also give receipts for Shekel donations.
Email: [email protected] |
LOCATION
A wondrous place in Northern Israel... The Lower Galilee Council, our municipal partner, has generously allocated 20 dunams (approx. 5 acres) for the project. Located next to the Golani Intersection, the site is surrounded by a school complex with over 2,000 students, agricultural farms, and a pre-military preparatory program—an ideal environment to engage and inspire the next generation. |