The concept of hachnasat orchim, welcoming guests, which is highlighted in this week's torah portion, can be practiced every day of the year. You probably already model and teach this mitzvah to your children, but actually framing the actions as mitzvot helps your child understand the actions through Jewish eyes.
• When you’ve invited guests to your home, encourage your children to speak with them before they run off to play.
• When you have houseguests for an overnight visit, encourage your children to participate in making your guests feel comfortable. They can set the table for dinner, they can help bake cookies for dessert, etc.
• When you are invited to someone’s house for a meal, model for and explain to your children the importance of bringing a small gift as a way of showing your appreciation.
• Seek out a family that has just joined your synagogue or is new to your community, and invite them over for a meal this week. Involve your children in the planning and organizing and execution of this mitzvah. Let them help you decide what food to serve. Ask them to make place cards for the table. Encourage them to help you with some of the cooking. By doing so, you will not only help them perform the mitzvah right alongside you, you will also give them the opportunity to experience the inner glow that helping others can provide.
These examples involve some sort of action: planning, cooking, decorating, serving and ultimately demonstrating a genuine concern for and care about others. Everyone loves being welcomed and made to feel special and comfortable in a strange place. In doing for others, we are doing what we would like to have done for ourselves. Be positive and enthusiastic, and watch your children exhibit the same behavior. As you demonstrate graciousness and kindness to others, your children will be learning to do the same.
From Got Shabbat of the Union for Reform Judaism
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