By Warren Sufrin
Ready for a win-win-win for your kehilah?
The FJMC International (FJMC) “Build-a-Pair” program is an award-winning, multi-generational educational initiative designed to introduce fifth- through seventh-grade students to the joy and ritual of tefillin.
Operating as an adjunct to the FJMC’s hallmark World Wide Wrap, an annual event that encourages Jewish communities globally to bind tefillin together, Build-a-Pair serves as a fun, creative bridge for young students and their families to connect deeply with Jewish heritage.
The program uniquely pairs traditional religious learning with an interactive, hands-on craft experience. Through turnkey kits supplied by the FJMC, students construct their own model tefillin using pre-cut wooden pieces, completely eliminating the need for complex woodworking.
As part of the construction process, children replicate the traditional practice of a scribe by writing their Hebrew names and the first line of the Shema prayer on parchment strips, which they then insert into the completed wooden boxes (battim). Afterward, they glue and decorate the boxes (decorations not included) to allow for unique personal expression, and thread elastic ribbon to simulate leather straps.
Beyond the tactile build, the curriculum includes a structured 30-minute educational program alongside comprehensive guides and instructional videos. These resources teach students the profound religious significance, history and physical anatomy of authentic tefillin.
To keep the engagement contemporary and lively, the program prompts students to cooperate or compete in writing original “wRAP” songs. They then perform these creative songs during the local Men’s Club World Wide Wrap celebration. Your program can then be submitted for a cash prize as part of an international competition, offered by the program’s creator, Dr. Ira Ungar (z”l).
A central strength of the Build-a-Pair initiative is its ability to foster intergenerational bonding. Because children bring their completed model tefillin to the main World Wide Wrap event, parents, grandparents and siblings are inherently drawn to participate. This unique dynamic transforms a complex ritual into an accessible family milestone, enabling multiple generations to fulfill and celebrate the mitzvah side by side.
Order your kits now on the FJMC store by clicking here.
A win for your Men’s Club. A win for your shul. A win for your religious school. What could be better?
Warren Sufrin is chair of the Build-A-Pair program for FJMC International.
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