- Nurturing Potential skills of a child:
Many children possess unique talents and abilities waiting to be discovered and nurtured. Recognizing and utilizing your child’s skills not only builds their confidence, but also fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment. When parents actively encourage the development of these natural talents, children are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By helping children harness their skills, families lay the foundation for lifelong resilience, adaptability, and fulfillment, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and to face future challenges with creativity and self-assurance. The following is a story of a special wood carving skill that was held by the Rebbe Maharash:[1]
Already from when the Rebbe Maharash was five years old he had revealed a special talent in word carving. He would use small knives to carve beautiful pictures and designs into pieces of wood. An elderly Chassid once offered the child his own special carving knife as a gift if the child would be able to tell him as to where G-d is found. The child responded by taking out his own knife and offering it to the elderly Chassid as a gift if he can tell him as to where G-d is not found. The Chassid smiled and said that with his response he has rightfully earned his carving knife as a gift.
Examples
📌 Example 1 – Artistic Talent Channeled with Kedushah
The Kaplan family noticed that their daughter Mushky loved drawing and creating designs from a very young age. Rather than dismissing this as a hobby or pushing only academic success, her parents encouraged her talent in a healthy way. They provided kosher art materials, enrolled her in a modest art class, and gently guided her to create artwork inspired by Jewish themes and everyday beauty. Over time, Mushky developed confidence and discipline, while her creativity remained aligned with tznius and humility.
📌 Example 2 – Practical Skills and Responsibility
From an early age, Shlomo Schneider showed a natural interest in fixing things around the house. His father noticed this and began involving him in simple repairs—changing lightbulbs, assembling furniture, and organizing tools. As Shlomo grew older, his father helped him learn basic electrical and mechanical skills during appropriate times, emphasizing honesty and responsibility. This nurtured Shlomo’s sense of competence and prepared him for future independence, all without detracting from his time in Yeshiva.
📌 Example 3 – Leadership and Helping Others
The parents of Rivka Levin observed that she had a natural ability to comfort younger children and take responsibility during family gatherings. Instead of labeling her as “bossy” or overly assertive, they guided her toward positive leadership by encouraging her to help organize children’s activities, assist younger siblings, and participate in chessed initiatives. Rivka learned that leadership is a form of service and responsibility, not control or attention-seeking.
📌 Example 4 – Verbal Talent Used for Torah and Chinuch
Young Benny Green demonstrated strong verbal skills and enjoyed explaining ideas to others. His parents encouraged him to review Mishnayos aloud at the Shabbos table and to help younger classmates understand lessons. By guiding his talent toward divrei Torah rather than argument or debate, Benny’s parents nurtured his abilities while refining his middos.
[1] Reshimos Devarim 1:143; Haparsha Hachassidit 1 p. 349