Kids non jewish friend

Posted: Sat, Oct 21 2006, 11:20 pm Post subject: kids non jewish friend

this new family moved in across the street. there are 6 kids in the family, and they are thrilled to have so many kids to play with-mine. they are nice enuf, but I really try to limit their time together - not easy as they are constantly coming over and its hard to be such a mean person and say 'not now, not now not now....'
the question I have is about the 13 yr old girl. she seems to be interested in our ways. she started dressing better-no tank tops anymore, skirts rather than pants. wants to learn the jewish songs my daughter sings, asks to join us for shabbos and yt meals. I can see her wanting to convert eventually, but as we dont look for converts, I do not try to encourage her.
what would you do in this sit?

Posted: Sat, Oct 21 2006, 11:23 pm Post subject: re: kids non jewish friend

I think I would talk to her parents & maybe talk to her.

Senior Member Joined: Aug 21 2005 Posts: 242

B"H its not the other way around!

Posted: Sun, Oct 22 2006, 10:32 am Post subject: re: kids non jewish friend

It could be more that she enjoys your family so much that she wants to become more a part of it and the way she sees is to emulate your children in dress and religion.

What's her family like very strict not warm?

Gold Member Joined: Apr 06 2006 Posts: 1492

Her path is an issue for her and her family.

If she's dressing more appropriately - fine!

For songs - I'd maybe just make sure that she's not inadvertantly singing any tefillot.

In general - be friendly, but also recognize boundaries. Make it clear that you aren't expecting her to do things in a Jewish way, and refer her to her parents if she asks really deep religious questions.