Source: Los Angeles Times
On December 22, 2000, the Los Angeles Times reported that in spite of criticism that Hannukah is being negatively affected by the influence of Christmas, many Jews feel that it remains a spiritually meaningful holiday. "Educators at the West Valley Jewish center use the season to teach some serious lessons about Jewish history, culture and values--and have a little fun as well. Kids here knocked on a dreidel-shaped pinata, made candles and baked cookies this week, but preschoolers also learned about the concept of tzedekah, or altruism, bringing in books for both classmates and the less fortunate." The preschoolers learn all about the story of Hanukkah and its history even though it is difficult for them to remember all the details.