Sharing Our Story: Alana Rifkin Gelnick on Teaching the "Four Sons" Today

In this episode of Jewish Insights, Justin Pines welcomes Alana Rifkin Gelnick, founder and CEO of Dreamearly, for a deep dive into the "pedagogy of the Seder." As we navigate rising antisemitism and global uncertainty, Alana explores how the ancient rituals of Passover - from the Ma Nishtana to the Four Sons - provide a timeless framework for modern parenting and education, and healthier relationships in general.

Together, they discuss why "kids do well if they can," the power of modeling emotional regulation, and how to meet every type of learner exactly where they are. Whether you are preparing for your family Seder or looking for tools to help the children in your life thrive, this conversation offers tangible takeaways for building confidence, creativity, and care.

Alana Rifkin Gelnick is a recognized leader in Jewish education and the host of the Stream of Dreamearly podcast - https://dreamearly.co/podcast/ Her organization, Dreamearly, supports parents and educators through creative coaching and thoughtful content designed to help every child thrive - https://dreamearly.org/

Prior to creating Dreamearly, Alana was the Associate Principal of the Early Learning Center (ELC) at SAR Academy in Riverdale, NY. She is the recipient of the Pomegranate Prize from the Covenant Foundation, recognizing emerging leaders in Jewish education, and the Jewish Education Project’s Robert M. Sherman Young Pioneers Award.