The wonderment of Hanukkah shines through in the eyes of the young, as the candles light, the dreidel’s spin, and chocolates are shared. A children’s menorah gives a sense of participation and is the perfect gift. Whether it’s for lighting the candles, or a toy, early involvement helps develop lifelong rituals.
There are toy Hanukkah menorahs, allowing the very young to participate without worry. Below I share my favourite from each category.
Traditional Children’s Menorah
When we first got married, we had a beautiful menorah from Israel. Then came our children, and like so many families, our firstborn received a children’s menorah for Hanukkah one year. And not just any menorah, they got the Yair Emanuel Children’s Train Hanukkah Menorah.
This anodized aluminum menorah is shaped like a steam train and has three compartments each with spinning wheels. The train’s engine holds the shamash or helper candle is placed; the other two a are windowed carriages with four candles holders each. Best of all, it’s available in different colors..
It quickly became the family favourite. Each year, as the time gets closer, our kids can hardly wait for the first night of the Festival of Lights.
Click here to check price of the Yair Emanuel Anodized Aluminium Metal Train Hanukkah Menorah
My Favorite Noah’s Ark Menorah
The story of Noah’s Ark is a classic. And while it’s not actually related to Hanukkah, Noah’s Ark Menorahs are adored by kids both young and old. I think our girls were about 2 and 4 years old when their grandfather sent them their very own Noah’s Ark Menorah. Their little faces lit up brighter than the burning candles. It has been a family favorite ever since that day (along with their train menorah).
I am not sure if it is the animals, the story, the idea of new beginnings, or the bright colors that makes Noah’s Ark menorahs so loved. When we got ours, it was unique, the only one I had ever seen. Now there are several to pick from.
Take a look at this wooden fitted Noah’s Ark menorah from artist Yair Emanuel. Brightly hand-painted and well lacquered, its nine sections are moveable. Each side of each piece contains a unique illustration following a single theme. And each has a brass candle insert.
–> Check current prices on this Noah’s Ark Menorah
More Features of the Yair Emanuel Wooden Fitted Noah’s Ark Menorah
- It is waterproof and can be hand-washed.
- It holds standard Hanukkah candles.
- The artist lives in Israel.
- It comes with a Hanukkah blessings pamphlet in both Hebrew and English.
It’s not the only one:
More Noah’s Ark Menorahs
Have a look at these. To get more information or pricing on any of these, click on the name or image.
Family Fun Menorah
Another current favourite of mine, probably wasn’t designed specifically to be a children’s menorah, but take a look at it. What kid wouldn’t love the big spiral or the rainbow of colors? It’s unusual and looks great on the shelves all year. Click here to check price of the Spiral Rainbow Menorah
More great children’s menorahs
Children’s Toy Menorahs
Plush Menorah
The beloved plush toy is the perfect way to involve really young ones in the holiday. Read the reviews and see why some are more liked than others. Personally, I like the sing-along plush menorah with removable candles as it adds additional dimensions to the fun. It’s rated for 3 months and above.
Primary school age children will love this Puzzle – Menorah
Made of 27 pieces, each one featuring one of the letters of the Hebrew alphabet, this wooden menorah puzzle by Yair Emanuel is educational and fun.
Mosaic Menorah for a bigger challenge
This do-it-yourself mosaic menorah kit is perfect for kids who like a bit more of a challenge. It comes with everything you need including the stamped board, mosaic stones, glue, grout, mixing sticks and even the sponge.
See more Hanukkah menorahs:
- Travel Menorahs
- Electric Menorah
- Giant Menorah – this one is just for fun
Electric Menorah Makes Hanukkah Clean Up Easy
