Start the lesson by explaining the two miracles that are celebrated over Hanukkah: the miracle of the war and the miracle of the oil. Explain what these miracles mean to Jewish people and why they are celebrated. Challenge each student to come up with an example of a possible miracle that may have happened in their own lives. Once answers have been given, have the kids sit down and illustrate their miracles on paper.
Read to your students. Following a story can be an effective way to engage in the celebration and learn about it. A story with a good plot and interesting illustrations can be used such as "The Story of Chanukah" by Sarah Leon. Have them comment on different situations, points and stories that they can most relate to. Ask students how certain situations in the book say something about their own lives.
Help kids create their own menorah. A good way for students to take an active part in the celebration while learning about the holiday is through the use of a menorah. They can celebrate all eight nights by lighting a candle each evening of Hanukkah. Before helping students design their menorahs with clay and birthday candles, explain why this is a custom and what it signifies. After they're finished, allow them to take their creations home.
Oil is a big part of Hanukkah. For this fun-filled lesson, first explain to your students what significance oil has in the celebration. Explain that when the Holy Temple was rededicated, the menorah was lit using olive oil. At the time, they only had enough oil to burn for one night. The miracle occurred when they used this oil and it lasted for eight whole days. To celebrate this, dedicate the lesson to cooking using oil and make doughnuts, pancakes and a variety of other fun food that preschoolers are going to love.