Articles by Rabbi Dan Tiomkin

Discover four powerful Torah teachings on setting boundaries, maintaining unconditional love, and guiding children with compassion

What Parshat Bereishit teaches us about parenting, the danger of labeling children, and the power of recognizing the good in others

How the sukkah and the Four Species teach us to embrace differences, create meaningful family moments, and find joy even when the holiday feels challenging

Yom Kippur invites parents and educators to look inward, recognize both strengths and areas for growth, and choose one meaningful change that can strengthen their relationship with the children in their care

The promise of the “great shofar” teaches parents that even when they cannot break through their child’s walls, they can preserve connection, hold on to hope, and trust that no soul is ever beyond reach

What Selichot teaches us about our failures, our true selves, and why we should never lose faith in ourselves or our children

A young man planned to leave his family’s Simchat Torah celebration for the Nova festival, but a warm welcome, joyful hakafot, and a family meal changed his plans and ultimately saved his life

A moving story about Queen Elizabeth reveals a timeless lesson for Elul: the greatest opportunities for connection are often found in the simplest everyday moments

Shabbat Nachamu teaches parents, educators, and every Jew to transform pain into growth, embrace hope after failure, and prepare for the High Holidays with renewed faith

A moving encounter between a rabbi and an at risk teenager reveals why labels can wound a soul, and how seeing a person's true Divine essence can inspire hope, healing, and transformation

Profound teachings of the Sefat Emet on the month of Elul, the hidden spark of holiness within every Jew, and how this special season helps us reconnect with our true selves, elevate our souls, and draw closer to God

Why teachers should care for every student with the same dedication, patience, and love that parents have for their own children

Sometimes the very qualities that make us feel different, burdened, or out of place are the ones that will help us soar. An inspiring story about self-worth, purpose, and learning to embrace your wings.

The first mention of a friend in the Torah reveals a timeless definition of genuine friendship. Discover why trust, discretion, and unwavering loyalty are among the most important qualities of a true friend.

Whether helping a struggling teen, a child, or someone on a spiritual journey, true change begins with understanding their needs

Discover practical ways neighbors can offer support, empathy, and hope during difficult times

Learn why listening beyond the words — and recognizing hidden signals of distress, can make all the difference

A powerful spiritual perspective on emotional numbness, hidden goodness, and why compassion, connection, and “ropes of love” are often the key to helping disconnected children heal and return to themselves

A powerful reflection for Tu BiShvat on parenting, emotional growth

A thoughtful look at childhood diagnoses, emotional struggles, and why understanding the root of a child’s challenges can help parents replace frustration and guilt with compassion, clarity, and effective support