Purim is almost here!

By Alicia Feldman, PJ Library Coordinator

Dressing up in costumes and partying with friends and community is probably, handsdown, the best part of Purim but creating and delivering mishloach manot (Purim gift baskets) for friends and family is a very close second. People send mishloach manot for a couple of reasons. While it’s nice to share a little love with friends and family, giving gifts at Purim is also a reminder to care about the needs of others, especially those who may be struggling.

Making gifts in a jar with your kids is a great way to exercise fine motor and close reading skills. For older kids, the precise measurements reinforce addition, subtraction and basic math skills. Plus, cooking with kids encourages them to try new foods — and research shows that kids are more likely to eat something they helped prepare.

If you’ve never made mishloach manot , or you’re looking to change up your gift-giving routine, here is a fun gift in a jar that you can make with your kids.

Granola is the secretly healthy snack you can sneak to your kids anytime. The best part about making granola? Most recipes have a fair amount of wiggle room for improvisation and experimentation — perfect for your curious and budding little sous chefs/mad scientists. Try this recipe to get started.

For more kid-friendly information on Purim, its meaning and traditions, see the “All About Purim” box on this page or keep an eye out for PJ Library selections like “The Purim Superhero.”

Five Ingredient Granola

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 12 cups

Ingredients

• 6 cups oats, dry

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup coconut oil

• ⅓ cup honey

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Optional

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped

• ¼ cup sunflower seeds

• ½ cup raisins, seedless

• ½ cup cranberries, dried

• 1 cup coconut flakes

• ½ cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Mix oats and brown sugar together.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, honey and vanilla.

4. Pour over dry mixture and stir to coat thoroughly. Add in chopped nuts and desired seeds.

5. Spread on baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.

6. Stir frequently (every 5 minutes) to ensure even baking. It should be golden brown when done.

7. Let it cool on the baking sheet and then break up any large pieces. Stir in dried fruit, coconut and chocolate chips, if using.

8. Store in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, for up to 3 weeks.